Therapists in Los Ranchos, NM

Photo of Robyn Admire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Robyn Admire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Los Ranchos, NM 87107
Waitlist for new clients
If you're seeking a therapist who will listen without judgment while also offering direct, constructive feedback on the ways you might be holding yourself back, I would be excited to work with you. My approach delves into the influence cultural and familial backgrounds have on your life and worldview. I take a logical, evidence-based approach to therapy, grounded in science, and maintain a non-religious perspective in my practice. I am sex positive, and kink knowledgeable.
If you're seeking a therapist who will listen without judgment while also offering direct, constructive feedback on the ways you might be holding yourself back, I would be excited to work with you. My approach delves into the influence cultural and familial backgrounds have on your life and worldview. I take a logical, evidence-based approach to therapy, grounded in science, and maintain a non-religious perspective in my practice. I am sex positive, and kink knowledgeable.
(505) 657-8859 View (505) 657-8859
Photo of Ana Sanchez-Riddle, Counselor, MA, LPCC, ICGC-I
Ana Sanchez-Riddle
Counselor, MA, LPCC, ICGC-I
Serves Area
Bienvenidos! I'm happy you are here. The idea of going to therapy can be scary and intimidating, but the fact that you are looking for help is proof that you have more inner strength and courage than you know. Creating a balance between mental health and wellness is vital in living a meaningful life. Maybe you have done a lot of self-help, gym, yoga, and workshop stuff. This is great, but sometimes we all need extra and professional support to get ourselves through challenging and tough times.
Bienvenidos! I'm happy you are here. The idea of going to therapy can be scary and intimidating, but the fact that you are looking for help is proof that you have more inner strength and courage than you know. Creating a balance between mental health and wellness is vital in living a meaningful life. Maybe you have done a lot of self-help, gym, yoga, and workshop stuff. This is great, but sometimes we all need extra and professional support to get ourselves through challenging and tough times.
(505) 302-1364 View (505) 302-1364
Photo of Nathan Ari Fox, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nathan Ari Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
For 21 years I have been a psychotherapist in private practice. I also ran a prescription management practice for several years so I understand the role of medication. At this time I want to work with clients who are driven to grow and heal. Often people come to therapy because they find themselves lost and confused in their lives. My clients tell me they appreciate my "warm heart" and rational mind because together we create a path for them to move forward with grace. It is most important to me that you learn who you are and how to be the happiest, healthiest, kindest and most successful you that is possible.
For 21 years I have been a psychotherapist in private practice. I also ran a prescription management practice for several years so I understand the role of medication. At this time I want to work with clients who are driven to grow and heal. Often people come to therapy because they find themselves lost and confused in their lives. My clients tell me they appreciate my "warm heart" and rational mind because together we create a path for them to move forward with grace. It is most important to me that you learn who you are and how to be the happiest, healthiest, kindest and most successful you that is possible.
(505) 605-7743 View (505) 605-7743
Photo of Amy McGrane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Amy McGrane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Finding the right therapist is an important step toward feeling better, and I’m glad you’re here. I’m a licensed therapist based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, providing individual, couples, and adolescent counseling through telehealth sessions across the state. I work with children, teens, and adults facing a wide range of challenges — including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, life transitions, and personal growth. My goal is to create a space where you feel supported, understood, and equipped with practical tools to navigate life’s ups and downs.
Finding the right therapist is an important step toward feeling better, and I’m glad you’re here. I’m a licensed therapist based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, providing individual, couples, and adolescent counseling through telehealth sessions across the state. I work with children, teens, and adults facing a wide range of challenges — including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, life transitions, and personal growth. My goal is to create a space where you feel supported, understood, and equipped with practical tools to navigate life’s ups and downs.
(505) 624-8462 View (505) 624-8462
Photo of Reyna Garcia - Lumina Mental Health, Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Lumina Mental Health
Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
First, I am already so proud of you for making the choice to enter the counseling journey. Taking the first step is often scary and challenging. I hope to hold a safe space for you, while you courageously step into healing and self-exploration. We ALL need support as social and interconnected beings. Society, our upbringings, our individual and collective experiences influence the coping tools, behaviors, beliefs/thoughts that we hold on to. These all work for a period of time in our lives, and at some point, no longer work for us. In therapy, we can unlearn these unhealthy thinking patterns and learn new ways to heal and cope.
First, I am already so proud of you for making the choice to enter the counseling journey. Taking the first step is often scary and challenging. I hope to hold a safe space for you, while you courageously step into healing and self-exploration. We ALL need support as social and interconnected beings. Society, our upbringings, our individual and collective experiences influence the coping tools, behaviors, beliefs/thoughts that we hold on to. These all work for a period of time in our lives, and at some point, no longer work for us. In therapy, we can unlearn these unhealthy thinking patterns and learn new ways to heal and cope.
(505) 605-7987 View (505) 605-7987
Photo of Juan E. (Buck) Sanchez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Juan E. (Buck) Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Let’s talk about what is going on with you, your family, or your organization. Are you feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or afraid than usual? Are you and your spouse/partner struggling with trust, communication, or intimacy? Is your daughter or son having difficulties? Are you noticing changes in behavior/attitude? Are you concerned about substance use? Is there anything else that is upsetting to you or your loved ones? Are there problematic issues in your workplace or business? Are there new opportunities or possibilities you want to explore in your life and relationships?
Let’s talk about what is going on with you, your family, or your organization. Are you feeling more anxious, sad, angry, or afraid than usual? Are you and your spouse/partner struggling with trust, communication, or intimacy? Is your daughter or son having difficulties? Are you noticing changes in behavior/attitude? Are you concerned about substance use? Is there anything else that is upsetting to you or your loved ones? Are there problematic issues in your workplace or business? Are there new opportunities or possibilities you want to explore in your life and relationships?
(505) 658-6864 View (505) 658-6864
Photo of Megan J. Shepherd, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Megan J. Shepherd
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC
Online Only
If you want to get to the root of what you struggle with, I can offer you a nonjudgemental space to explore your past, enrich your present, and build a future you want to live in. People come to therapy for many reasons that basically boil down to something is wrong and you can't figure it out and don't know what to do. I can help. I am a huge proponent of wellness and believe that our mental and emotional states are impacted by our physical wellbeing, social wellbeing, relationships and visa versa. I am here to listen and provide you with an outside perspective to help you gain insight and clarity.
If you want to get to the root of what you struggle with, I can offer you a nonjudgemental space to explore your past, enrich your present, and build a future you want to live in. People come to therapy for many reasons that basically boil down to something is wrong and you can't figure it out and don't know what to do. I can help. I am a huge proponent of wellness and believe that our mental and emotional states are impacted by our physical wellbeing, social wellbeing, relationships and visa versa. I am here to listen and provide you with an outside perspective to help you gain insight and clarity.
(505) 308-0892 View (505) 308-0892
Photo of Rachel Baeza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Rachel Baeza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Are you or your teen struggling to find happiness in day to day life? I offer a space for you to address your mental health, from feelings of sadness and overthinking to difficulties managing stress or coping with life transitions. Whether navigating relationship challenges, overcoming trauma, or enhancing self-esteem, my services serve as a transformative tool. Through fostering self-awareness, I work to empower clients, helping them build resilience, develop healthier thought patterns, and improve their overall wellbeing. I am dedicated to guiding you toward a brighter future, and identifying ways to rediscover joy.
Are you or your teen struggling to find happiness in day to day life? I offer a space for you to address your mental health, from feelings of sadness and overthinking to difficulties managing stress or coping with life transitions. Whether navigating relationship challenges, overcoming trauma, or enhancing self-esteem, my services serve as a transformative tool. Through fostering self-awareness, I work to empower clients, helping them build resilience, develop healthier thought patterns, and improve their overall wellbeing. I am dedicated to guiding you toward a brighter future, and identifying ways to rediscover joy.
(505) 636-5745 View (505) 636-5745
Photo of Jennifer Harrison-Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Harrison-Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over two decades of dedicated service to the people of New Mexico, I specialize in trauma recovery, particularly Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), utilizing EMDR and other therapeutic modalities. I believe your history is not a life sentence, but a narrative we can successfully rewrite, shifting you from survival to genuine thriving. Because true healing requires absolute safety and trust, I am dedicated to creating an unconditionally non-judgmental, reliable, and client-paced space where we build psychological safety first.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over two decades of dedicated service to the people of New Mexico, I specialize in trauma recovery, particularly Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), utilizing EMDR and other therapeutic modalities. I believe your history is not a life sentence, but a narrative we can successfully rewrite, shifting you from survival to genuine thriving. Because true healing requires absolute safety and trust, I am dedicated to creating an unconditionally non-judgmental, reliable, and client-paced space where we build psychological safety first.
(505) 587-7374 View (505) 587-7374
Photo of Amber Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Amber Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Hi, I am Amber. I am a Christian-oriented therapist who seeks to help others feel empowered to make changes to better their lives. If you are struggling in an intimate relationship, have trauma holding you in bondage, or are trying to break free from addiction then I would love the opportunity to work with you in your counseling journey. I have worked with clients of all backgrounds and in various settings. I also work with many clients in the LGBTQ community. I also have extensive experience with clients who have dual diagnosis and are high risk.
Hi, I am Amber. I am a Christian-oriented therapist who seeks to help others feel empowered to make changes to better their lives. If you are struggling in an intimate relationship, have trauma holding you in bondage, or are trying to break free from addiction then I would love the opportunity to work with you in your counseling journey. I have worked with clients of all backgrounds and in various settings. I also work with many clients in the LGBTQ community. I also have extensive experience with clients who have dual diagnosis and are high risk.
(505) 437-4517 View (505) 437-4517
Photo of Maria Canyon, Psychologist, PsyD
Maria Canyon
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
The people I work with often come to me because they are looking to gain insight into emotional patterns, address difficult dynamics, and develop more balanced relationships with themselves or others. Together we paint a picture of their life stories, work to integrate the various aspects of themselves, and move towards the life they want to be living. We take the time to explore the context and history of the problem or symptom they are experiencing in order to better address it. I work with people of all ages and backgrounds and promote authentic expression and reflection in the therapy room.
The people I work with often come to me because they are looking to gain insight into emotional patterns, address difficult dynamics, and develop more balanced relationships with themselves or others. Together we paint a picture of their life stories, work to integrate the various aspects of themselves, and move towards the life they want to be living. We take the time to explore the context and history of the problem or symptom they are experiencing in order to better address it. I work with people of all ages and backgrounds and promote authentic expression and reflection in the therapy room.
(505) 578-4957 View (505) 578-4957

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Thomas Trujillo - Restorative Paths Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Restorative Paths Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Rio Rancho, NM 87124
Now accepting new clients! Weekends and evening availability. We are a team of dedicated and compassionate counselors committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Our practice offers support for a wide range of mental health and substance use concerns, with a special focus on working with families involved with CYFD.
Now accepting new clients! Weekends and evening availability. We are a team of dedicated and compassionate counselors committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Our practice offers support for a wide range of mental health and substance use concerns, with a special focus on working with families involved with CYFD.
(505) 591-5229 View (505) 591-5229
Photo of Kirsten Hermann - Kirsten Hermann, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kirsten Hermann, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
By providing a safe, supportive environment in which clients can explore difficult issues, they begin to find their voice to express themselves, while gaining personal insight, and starting on a path of healing. I am a Licensed Marital Family Therapist and a Clinical Fellow of the American Association of Marital Family Therapists. In my private practice, in the lovely village of Corrales just outside of both Rio Rancho and Albuquerque. I work with adult individuals helping all my clients begin to build stronger 'internal bridges', which support them in reconnecting with their heart, mind, and spirit.
By providing a safe, supportive environment in which clients can explore difficult issues, they begin to find their voice to express themselves, while gaining personal insight, and starting on a path of healing. I am a Licensed Marital Family Therapist and a Clinical Fellow of the American Association of Marital Family Therapists. In my private practice, in the lovely village of Corrales just outside of both Rio Rancho and Albuquerque. I work with adult individuals helping all my clients begin to build stronger 'internal bridges', which support them in reconnecting with their heart, mind, and spirit.
(505) 819-3423 View (505) 819-3423
Photo of Charlene McGinnis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlene McGinnis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Offering Weekday evening Appointments - Taking new clients. Have you ever wondered what therapy is all about? Is it for you? Do you experience: angry outbursts, complete shut down, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, suicidal ideation, or issues with impulse control. Understanding the role that being in a regulated state is the cornerstone to mental health. The mission of my practice is to teach every person, in a group or individual setting, the foundations of regulation and how to connect to it within their own body. Feel free to go to my website for more information. Search The Equanimity Group Alb in Google.
Offering Weekday evening Appointments - Taking new clients. Have you ever wondered what therapy is all about? Is it for you? Do you experience: angry outbursts, complete shut down, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, suicidal ideation, or issues with impulse control. Understanding the role that being in a regulated state is the cornerstone to mental health. The mission of my practice is to teach every person, in a group or individual setting, the foundations of regulation and how to connect to it within their own body. Feel free to go to my website for more information. Search The Equanimity Group Alb in Google.
(505) 594-8327 View (505) 594-8327
Photo of Tabitha Jolene Herring, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tabitha Jolene Herring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of combined experience in education and counseling, I am dedicated to helping adults and seniors navigate the effects of trauma, grief, and life transitions. My work has focused on supporting veterans, service members, and survivors of military and sexual trauma, as well as individuals coping with depression, anxiety, and loss.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of combined experience in education and counseling, I am dedicated to helping adults and seniors navigate the effects of trauma, grief, and life transitions. My work has focused on supporting veterans, service members, and survivors of military and sexual trauma, as well as individuals coping with depression, anxiety, and loss.
(505) 572-0994 View (505) 572-0994
Photo of Marcy Reda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marcy Reda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help individuals and couples better understand, trust, and communicate their emotions, needs, and longings. Our emotions, even the painful ones, provide us with important information about what we need and where we should be headed. At times we dismiss our own inner wisdom in an attempt to fit in, keep the peace, or protect ourselves from hurt, but we then miss out on creating the life and relationships we desire. I strongly believe that people heal and grow best in connection with others, and therapy provides the security and compassion necessary to make new discoveries about yourself that can lead to positive change.
I help individuals and couples better understand, trust, and communicate their emotions, needs, and longings. Our emotions, even the painful ones, provide us with important information about what we need and where we should be headed. At times we dismiss our own inner wisdom in an attempt to fit in, keep the peace, or protect ourselves from hurt, but we then miss out on creating the life and relationships we desire. I strongly believe that people heal and grow best in connection with others, and therapy provides the security and compassion necessary to make new discoveries about yourself that can lead to positive change.
(505) 302-3875 View (505) 302-3875
Photo of Devin Reeves, Counselor, LMHC
Devin Reeves
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a people person who enjoys a wide variety of clients – from teens to mature adults. Their commonality is that they are curious, open to new ideas and ways of looking at the world, and seeking opportunities to improve.
I am a people person who enjoys a wide variety of clients – from teens to mature adults. Their commonality is that they are curious, open to new ideas and ways of looking at the world, and seeking opportunities to improve.
(505) 591-3424 View (505) 591-3424
Photo of Milton Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Milton Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client? You’re the strong one, the “I’m fine” one; but inside, the stress, anxiety, or grief is heavy. Maybe you’re juggling family expectations, cultural pressure, or identity questions, and you just want someone who gets it without the translation. You’re not here for cookie-cutter advice; you want real talk, practical tools, and a therapist who mixes humor with honesty. Your goals? Boundaries that hold, relationships that don’t drain you, and finally feeling bold, grounded, and fully yourself.
My ideal client? You’re the strong one, the “I’m fine” one; but inside, the stress, anxiety, or grief is heavy. Maybe you’re juggling family expectations, cultural pressure, or identity questions, and you just want someone who gets it without the translation. You’re not here for cookie-cutter advice; you want real talk, practical tools, and a therapist who mixes humor with honesty. Your goals? Boundaries that hold, relationships that don’t drain you, and finally feeling bold, grounded, and fully yourself.
(505) 591-6240 View (505) 591-6240
Photo of Alex Kawliche, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Alex Kawliche
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Life can feel heavy at times; you might be facing anxiety, self-doubt, relationship struggles, or unresolved trauma. You’re ready for more than just getting by. You want relief, clarity, and lasting growth. I provide a supportive, down-to-earth online space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Together, we’ll uncover patterns that keep you stuck and build tools for resilience, balance, and confidence. Through a collaborative and humanistic approach, I’ll help you move from simply coping to truly thriving.
Life can feel heavy at times; you might be facing anxiety, self-doubt, relationship struggles, or unresolved trauma. You’re ready for more than just getting by. You want relief, clarity, and lasting growth. I provide a supportive, down-to-earth online space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Together, we’ll uncover patterns that keep you stuck and build tools for resilience, balance, and confidence. Through a collaborative and humanistic approach, I’ll help you move from simply coping to truly thriving.
(813) 816-3300 View (813) 816-3300
Photo of Ingela Onstad, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Ingela Onstad
Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients (Medicaid, private insurance, and self-pay). Welcome! I am dedicated to creating a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, career challenges, self-esteem, and relationship issues. I believe that each person is inherently whole and on a unique journey toward authentic well-being—a path that looks different for everyone. My goal is to walk alongside you as you uncover what well-being means for you, honoring your individuality every step of the way.
Currently accepting new clients (Medicaid, private insurance, and self-pay). Welcome! I am dedicated to creating a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, career challenges, self-esteem, and relationship issues. I believe that each person is inherently whole and on a unique journey toward authentic well-being—a path that looks different for everyone. My goal is to walk alongside you as you uncover what well-being means for you, honoring your individuality every step of the way.
(505) 295-5670 View (505) 295-5670

See more therapy options for Los Ranchos

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Los Ranchos, NM

10+

Average cost per session

$111

Therapists in Los Ranchos, NM who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
82% Depression
82% Trauma and PTSD
82% Life Transitions
73% Self Esteem
73% Stress
64% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
70% Optum

How Therapists in Los Ranchos, NM see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Los Ranchos?

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.