Therapists in McAdenville, NC

Photo of Alexis McGann, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Alexis McGann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
3 Endorsed
McAdenville, NC 28101
Change begins by truly feeling seen. My priority is to establish a consistent and comforting space where your story is honored and explored with care, curiosity, and intention. Whether you are seeking support while navigating life transitions, facing challenges in relationships, processing past hurts, or simply trying to make sense of your emotions, I am committed to walking alongside you with compassion and purpose. Together, we will assess what values matter most, develop a plan for our time together, and create targeted goals that foster meaningful change.
Change begins by truly feeling seen. My priority is to establish a consistent and comforting space where your story is honored and explored with care, curiosity, and intention. Whether you are seeking support while navigating life transitions, facing challenges in relationships, processing past hurts, or simply trying to make sense of your emotions, I am committed to walking alongside you with compassion and purpose. Together, we will assess what values matter most, develop a plan for our time together, and create targeted goals that foster meaningful change.
(980) 351-4989 x107 View (980) 351-4989 x107
Photo of Mark Livak, Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
2 Endorsed
McAdenville, NC 28101
Hello, thank you for your time to review my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
Hello, thank you for your time to review my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Kathy M Shelton Riek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kathy M Shelton Riek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am Kathy M. Shelton-Riek, LCSW, MSW, Ed.S. in NC. I love collaborating with clients to grow and heal. I also enjoy working with clients via Telehealth from the convenience of home and a schedule that fits the needs of a working person. I specialize in helping adults and and geriatrics to understand their mental health conditions as well as moods, thoughts and behaviors.
I am Kathy M. Shelton-Riek, LCSW, MSW, Ed.S. in NC. I love collaborating with clients to grow and heal. I also enjoy working with clients via Telehealth from the convenience of home and a schedule that fits the needs of a working person. I specialize in helping adults and and geriatrics to understand their mental health conditions as well as moods, thoughts and behaviors.
(704) 931-5640 View (704) 931-5640
Photo of Kathleen M Connolly, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Kathleen M Connolly
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
It's courageous to ask for help, to seek counseling. One of the most important responsibilities I have is to create a space for clients to work, explore, create, and move toward healing.
It's courageous to ask for help, to seek counseling. One of the most important responsibilities I have is to create a space for clients to work, explore, create, and move toward healing.
(704) 331-0160 View (704) 331-0160
Photo of Kendra Horne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kendra Horne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi, I’m Kendra, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in North Carolina with 7 years of experience. I earned my BSW from the University of North Carolina Wilmington in 2016 and my MSW from NC State University in 2018. I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapy. My experience includes working with trauma, ADHD, behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, and grief. I believe therapy should be both meaningful and enjoyable.
Hi, I’m Kendra, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in North Carolina with 7 years of experience. I earned my BSW from the University of North Carolina Wilmington in 2016 and my MSW from NC State University in 2018. I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapy. My experience includes working with trauma, ADHD, behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, and grief. I believe therapy should be both meaningful and enjoyable.
(910) 597-2858 View (910) 597-2858

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jim Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC
Jim Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor working with clients in person and via telehealth. My clients are interested in personal growth and dedicated to living a better, more functional life. They are eager to be heard and understood by someone who is nonjudgemental and dedicated to their overall wellness. They are open to change and ready to engage in a therapeutic relationship, which focuses on their strengths and goals always.
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor working with clients in person and via telehealth. My clients are interested in personal growth and dedicated to living a better, more functional life. They are eager to be heard and understood by someone who is nonjudgemental and dedicated to their overall wellness. They are open to change and ready to engage in a therapeutic relationship, which focuses on their strengths and goals always.
(828) 860-2625 View (828) 860-2625
Photo of Jill Mooney, Counselor, LMHC
Jill Mooney
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jill Mooney, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. My area of focus includes individual therapy with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, women’s health, anger management, and self-esteem issues. I am also passionate about integrated health and well-being, and its impact on mental health.
Hi, I’m Jill Mooney, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. My area of focus includes individual therapy with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, women’s health, anger management, and self-esteem issues. I am also passionate about integrated health and well-being, and its impact on mental health.
(954) 866-8239 View (954) 866-8239
Photo of Shana N Cauthen - Cauthen Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Cauthen Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Charlotte, NC 28262
Is your child or teen acting out? Do you feel like an emotional mess? Are you coping with feelings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, or defeat that just won't seem to go away? Are your emotional issues so serious that you believe that you don’t know which direction to go? Are you grieving a loss? Are you feeling burned out at work, searching for clarity, or trying to find meaning in life? We will work together and empower you to help yourself! We have over 14 years of experience in individual counseling and consultation. We have a diverse group of professionals to assist you in seeking clarity and improving your peace.
Is your child or teen acting out? Do you feel like an emotional mess? Are you coping with feelings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, or defeat that just won't seem to go away? Are your emotional issues so serious that you believe that you don’t know which direction to go? Are you grieving a loss? Are you feeling burned out at work, searching for clarity, or trying to find meaning in life? We will work together and empower you to help yourself! We have over 14 years of experience in individual counseling and consultation. We have a diverse group of professionals to assist you in seeking clarity and improving your peace.
(704) 850-6479 View (704) 850-6479
Photo of Mindy B Vergakis - Mindy Vergakis, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mindy Vergakis, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlotte, NC 28211
My focus is on building a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment in which individuals, children, adolescents and caregivers can identify, move towards and achieve their goals. When working with children, my hope is to support their growth while working alongside parents to strengthen understanding, communication, and family relationships.
My focus is on building a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment in which individuals, children, adolescents and caregivers can identify, move towards and achieve their goals. When working with children, my hope is to support their growth while working alongside parents to strengthen understanding, communication, and family relationships.
(980) 342-1208 View (980) 342-1208
Photo of Stephanie Hales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSWA
Stephanie Hales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSWA
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Are you are hoping to find a place where you can learn to build a stronger connection with yourself and others? Wherever you are in your therapy journey, I’m here to listen and support you while we work together towards your goals. I believe my clients are the experts of themselves. I work with people with eating disorders or disordered eating, or finding acceptance in their body, especially for clients in larger bodies. I also support clients who are managing trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and members of the LGBTQA+ community.
Are you are hoping to find a place where you can learn to build a stronger connection with yourself and others? Wherever you are in your therapy journey, I’m here to listen and support you while we work together towards your goals. I believe my clients are the experts of themselves. I work with people with eating disorders or disordered eating, or finding acceptance in their body, especially for clients in larger bodies. I also support clients who are managing trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and members of the LGBTQA+ community.
(980) 372-7508 View (980) 372-7508
Photo of Hannah Kaye - Onward/Upward Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Onward/Upward Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist, I offer services for clients during non-traditional hours for second/third shift workers and night owls; I see all of my clients from 7PM until midnight. I offer evidence-based therapy specialized in treating adults with ADHD, Autism, PTSD (or even a combination), and more importantly, I'm here to be a compassionate, trauma-informed sounding board to help you on your journey to your best mental health. Self-compassion, resilience, and coping are skills that can be taught, no matter where your starting line is!
As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist, I offer services for clients during non-traditional hours for second/third shift workers and night owls; I see all of my clients from 7PM until midnight. I offer evidence-based therapy specialized in treating adults with ADHD, Autism, PTSD (or even a combination), and more importantly, I'm here to be a compassionate, trauma-informed sounding board to help you on your journey to your best mental health. Self-compassion, resilience, and coping are skills that can be taught, no matter where your starting line is!
(336) 221-3951 View (336) 221-3951
Photo of Shawn Antonio Pressley, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Shawn Antonio Pressley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may be carrying a lot on your shoulders and doing everything you can to keep it together. On the outside, you look like you have it handled. On the inside, stress, anger, or grief may be building up, leaving you feeling stuck and disconnected. Many of the people I work with are high functioning but exhausted from carrying silent pressure and responsibility alone. You may want to feel more in control of your emotions, improve your relationships, communicate with confidence, and reconnect with yourself without feeling like you have to do it all alone.
You may be carrying a lot on your shoulders and doing everything you can to keep it together. On the outside, you look like you have it handled. On the inside, stress, anger, or grief may be building up, leaving you feeling stuck and disconnected. Many of the people I work with are high functioning but exhausted from carrying silent pressure and responsibility alone. You may want to feel more in control of your emotions, improve your relationships, communicate with confidence, and reconnect with yourself without feeling like you have to do it all alone.
(704) 327-6655 View (704) 327-6655
Photo of Bernard Shalvey, Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, MS
Bernard Shalvey
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, MS
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
It's possible that you're unsure exactly what you would like to address in counseling, that's not a problem, we can explore this question in session and find achievable goals together. Any client struggling with the following issues will likely benefit from my counseling services: anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, autonomy, emotions, purpose, relationships, shame, grief, hopelessness, boundaries, communication, loneliness, spirituality and more.
It's possible that you're unsure exactly what you would like to address in counseling, that's not a problem, we can explore this question in session and find achievable goals together. Any client struggling with the following issues will likely benefit from my counseling services: anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, autonomy, emotions, purpose, relationships, shame, grief, hopelessness, boundaries, communication, loneliness, spirituality and more.
(704) 736-3417 View (704) 736-3417
Photo of Amy Bane, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, LCMHC-S, CCS
Amy Bane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, LCMHC-S, CCS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to my practice! Finding the right therapist is a deeply personal journey, and I’m honored to be a part of it. I’m dedicated to understanding and addressing your unique needs. With an extensive academic and professional background, I hold two master’s degrees in counseling and over 18 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I specialize in helping others on their journey of healing and growth, focusing on anxiety, relationship issues, addictions, and trauma recovery.
Welcome to my practice! Finding the right therapist is a deeply personal journey, and I’m honored to be a part of it. I’m dedicated to understanding and addressing your unique needs. With an extensive academic and professional background, I hold two master’s degrees in counseling and over 18 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I specialize in helping others on their journey of healing and growth, focusing on anxiety, relationship issues, addictions, and trauma recovery.
(910) 708-6592 View (910) 708-6592
Photo of Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC
Dr. Susan Wilkie McHale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCMHC
Cramerton, NC 28032
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage & family therapist (LMFT) in private practice (NC & SC) . Dr. Wilkie earned her PhD in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple & Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage & Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her full-time practice and serves Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia/Lake Wiley/Steele Creek/and Clover areas.
Dr. Susan B. Wilkie (PhD, LCMHC, LMFT) is an experienced, licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and licensed marriage & family therapist (LMFT) in private practice (NC & SC) . Dr. Wilkie earned her PhD in Mental Health Counseling at the University of New Orleans in 1994. Her post doctoral work was committed to Couple & Family Therapy for (16) years where she recently served as the Founding Director of the Marriage & Family Therapy Program at Pfeiffer University's Graduate School in Charlotte. She is now committed to her full-time practice and serves Belmont/Cramerton/Gastonia/Lake Wiley/Steele Creek/and Clover areas.
(704) 327-6674 View (704) 327-6674
Photo of Stephen Robinson, Counselor, LCMHC
Stephen Robinson
Counselor, LCMHC
Online Only
Welcome to my practice. My name is Stephen Robinson and I am licensed to treat both mental health and clinical addiction. I approach therapy from the perspective that you, the client, are the expert in your life and I am charged with seeing your world through your eyes, to the best of my ability. In doing so, we can collaborate to discover your world through new eyes and to live the life you so richly deserve. Whether you suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, or persistent mental health disorders, we can work together and reduce your struggle with coping skills and mindful awareness.
Welcome to my practice. My name is Stephen Robinson and I am licensed to treat both mental health and clinical addiction. I approach therapy from the perspective that you, the client, are the expert in your life and I am charged with seeing your world through your eyes, to the best of my ability. In doing so, we can collaborate to discover your world through new eyes and to live the life you so richly deserve. Whether you suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, or persistent mental health disorders, we can work together and reduce your struggle with coping skills and mindful awareness.
(980) 575-5179 View (980) 575-5179
Photo of Lynn Yates - Lynn Yates LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lynn Yates LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am an LCSW and have worked with adults, couples, adolescents, children and families dealing with many life situations and psychological challenges for 33 years. During this time I worked for twelve years as a civilian psychotherapist with the Army and Air Force here and overseas. I am grateful for the immense and diverse experiences. I service the Lake Norman area. I provide individual, couple and family psychotherapy. I no longer work with children and adolescents. I primarily serve Military Personnel/Veterans/Families, First Responders (EMS, Law Enforcement and Fire personnel). I also work with adults dealing with other issues.
I am an LCSW and have worked with adults, couples, adolescents, children and families dealing with many life situations and psychological challenges for 33 years. During this time I worked for twelve years as a civilian psychotherapist with the Army and Air Force here and overseas. I am grateful for the immense and diverse experiences. I service the Lake Norman area. I provide individual, couple and family psychotherapy. I no longer work with children and adolescents. I primarily serve Military Personnel/Veterans/Families, First Responders (EMS, Law Enforcement and Fire personnel). I also work with adults dealing with other issues.
(704) 893-8861 View (704) 893-8861
Photo of Stephanie Hrit, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Stephanie Hrit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions, unstable relationships, or a persistent sense of emptiness? Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or a sense of hopelessness? If you are experiencing any combination of these big emotions, know that you are not alone and that there is a brighter tomorrow waiting for you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions, unstable relationships, or a persistent sense of emptiness? Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or a sense of hopelessness? If you are experiencing any combination of these big emotions, know that you are not alone and that there is a brighter tomorrow waiting for you.
(248) 780-1665 View (248) 780-1665
Photo of Dr. Latasha Ellis - Couples Alliance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LISW-CP
Couples Alliance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LISW-CP
Huntersville, NC 28078
Many people have difficulty adapting to life's unforeseen challenges and seeking help can feel equally challenging. I believe that psychotherapy is invaluable in improving one's quality of life. Our experiences and characteristics can cause conflict in our relationships with ourselves & others. I value each individual's story as it creates our present day reality. Making sense of our life can be difficult to achieve alone. My approach is to help couples develop healthier, more adaptive relationships; nurture stable & respectful relationships; and move beyond the state of feeling "stuck" and toward growth.
Many people have difficulty adapting to life's unforeseen challenges and seeking help can feel equally challenging. I believe that psychotherapy is invaluable in improving one's quality of life. Our experiences and characteristics can cause conflict in our relationships with ourselves & others. I value each individual's story as it creates our present day reality. Making sense of our life can be difficult to achieve alone. My approach is to help couples develop healthier, more adaptive relationships; nurture stable & respectful relationships; and move beyond the state of feeling "stuck" and toward growth.
(704) 879-1976 View (704) 879-1976
Photo of Sherry Lyerly-Tarner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, RT, RYT
Sherry Lyerly-Tarner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, RT, RYT
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected — struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, body image issues, or navigating major life transitions. Perhaps you’re healing from a difficult relationship, divorce, or seeking self-acceptance after years of disordered eating. You want to feel confident, balanced, and whole again — to quiet the inner critic, heal past wounds, and reconnect with your authentic self. You’re ready for change but unsure how to get there. My goal is to support and empower you on your path to healing, growth, and renewed self-worth.
You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected — struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, body image issues, or navigating major life transitions. Perhaps you’re healing from a difficult relationship, divorce, or seeking self-acceptance after years of disordered eating. You want to feel confident, balanced, and whole again — to quiet the inner critic, heal past wounds, and reconnect with your authentic self. You’re ready for change but unsure how to get there. My goal is to support and empower you on your path to healing, growth, and renewed self-worth.
(980) 404-2348 View (980) 404-2348

See more therapy options for McAdenville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in McAdenville, NC

< 10

Therapists in McAdenville, NC who prioritize treating:

80% ADHD
80% Depression
80% Anxiety
80% Grief
60% Anger Management
60% Self Esteem
40% Relationship Issues

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in McAdenville, NC see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in McAdenville?

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.