Therapists in Gates Mills, OH

Photo of Jennifer Dzugan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Jennifer Dzugan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to DeNovo Counseling and Wellness, LLC, where a new beginning is just around the corner. Life can be full of many challenges, uncertainties, and scariness these days. Finding a way to weather the storm with peace and contentment has been my life's work for the past 17 years. I specialize in treating trauma and Reactive Attachment Disorder. Other interests include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and family issues. By fostering a strong relationship together, I work with you and alongside you to heal old wounds.
Welcome to DeNovo Counseling and Wellness, LLC, where a new beginning is just around the corner. Life can be full of many challenges, uncertainties, and scariness these days. Finding a way to weather the storm with peace and contentment has been my life's work for the past 17 years. I specialize in treating trauma and Reactive Attachment Disorder. Other interests include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and family issues. By fostering a strong relationship together, I work with you and alongside you to heal old wounds.
(440) 294-4993 View (440) 294-4993
Photo of Dr. Heather Flores, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Heather Flores
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I get it. You're probably not here because you want to be. You’re here because you need to be. Maybe your relationship isn’t going well, or work is becoming too stressful. You’re avoiding people you care about and skipping out on things that used to matter. Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming. Guilt and shame feel suffocating. You might be wondering how you even got here. Let’s be real: trauma sucks. PTSD sucks. But recovery and posttraumatic growth is real. It’s not your fault you haven’t figured it all out on your own. This sh-t is hard! If you could have done it on your own already, you would have.
I get it. You're probably not here because you want to be. You’re here because you need to be. Maybe your relationship isn’t going well, or work is becoming too stressful. You’re avoiding people you care about and skipping out on things that used to matter. Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming. Guilt and shame feel suffocating. You might be wondering how you even got here. Let’s be real: trauma sucks. PTSD sucks. But recovery and posttraumatic growth is real. It’s not your fault you haven’t figured it all out on your own. This sh-t is hard! If you could have done it on your own already, you would have.
(440) 739-7867 View (440) 739-7867
Photo of Dr. Angela Capuano-Fant, Psychologist, PhD, MFT, LPC
Dr. Angela Capuano-Fant
Psychologist, PhD, MFT, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We all can feel stuck and need help getting up and moving forward. I am a psychologist who can help you work through these times and any existing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also coach people to help them reach the next level in their career and/or life. I use a holistic approach to help you explore your strengths and things that prevent you from living your best life. I match my approach to fit you. Examples include solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (ACT, DBT, CBT), couple/marriage/family counseling, career and life coaching, emotion focused therapy, and exposure response therapy.
We all can feel stuck and need help getting up and moving forward. I am a psychologist who can help you work through these times and any existing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I also coach people to help them reach the next level in their career and/or life. I use a holistic approach to help you explore your strengths and things that prevent you from living your best life. I match my approach to fit you. Examples include solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (ACT, DBT, CBT), couple/marriage/family counseling, career and life coaching, emotion focused therapy, and exposure response therapy.
(216) 616-7386 View (216) 616-7386
Photo of Kristin Uhl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Kristin Uhl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Online Only
Hi there! My name is Kristin (preferred name Kristy) and I'm a licensed therapist. I specialize in working with children/adolescents and adults who experience depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, and trauma. I utilize a strength-based and a person-centered approach. In my experience, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is very affective and is the type of therapy I will often utilize.
Hi there! My name is Kristin (preferred name Kristy) and I'm a licensed therapist. I specialize in working with children/adolescents and adults who experience depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, and trauma. I utilize a strength-based and a person-centered approach. In my experience, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is very affective and is the type of therapy I will often utilize.
(216) 284-7023 View (216) 284-7023
Photo of Ashley Schwartzman, Psychologist, PsyD
Ashley Schwartzman
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with adolescents (14+ y/o) and adults who are seeking individual, family, and couples therapy. Many of the adolescents and adults I work with experience general and social anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and may engage in self-harming behaviors or have suicidal ideation. I provide parent/ caregiver coaching to parents who want to improve the quality of their relationship with their children and learn skills of effective conflict management and limit setting. The couples I work with want to learn skills to improve their communication, manage conflict effectively, and rebuild trust and intimacy within their relationship.
I work with adolescents (14+ y/o) and adults who are seeking individual, family, and couples therapy. Many of the adolescents and adults I work with experience general and social anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and may engage in self-harming behaviors or have suicidal ideation. I provide parent/ caregiver coaching to parents who want to improve the quality of their relationship with their children and learn skills of effective conflict management and limit setting. The couples I work with want to learn skills to improve their communication, manage conflict effectively, and rebuild trust and intimacy within their relationship.
(234) 348-3858 View (234) 348-3858
Photo of Brady Austin Mertens, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Brady Austin Mertens
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Online Only
My ideal client would be someone who desperately wants change and is ready to be curious, engaged, and deliberate with their growth. You would be open to creative and alternative approaches, and perhaps you've had many other 'failed' attempts at therapy. I enjoy complex cases, people trying to navigate difficult relationships, and being able to validate the struggles that you've been through. If you want to learn more about your mind, body, brain, past, and psyche and turn that knowledge into actionable steps toward wellness, we'll be a great fit!
My ideal client would be someone who desperately wants change and is ready to be curious, engaged, and deliberate with their growth. You would be open to creative and alternative approaches, and perhaps you've had many other 'failed' attempts at therapy. I enjoy complex cases, people trying to navigate difficult relationships, and being able to validate the struggles that you've been through. If you want to learn more about your mind, body, brain, past, and psyche and turn that knowledge into actionable steps toward wellness, we'll be a great fit!
(614) 541-1571 View (614) 541-1571
Photo of Lanaya McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lanaya McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I have a passion for helping people. I became a therapist to help and encourage people. I have a wide variety of experience. I worked in community health for several years. During that time, I saw a multitude up clients with a variety of issues to include but not limited to addiction, depression, bi - polar disorder, and many others. I provided care inpatient and outpatient and ran many different types of groups for adults and children. I worked with children and families on our juvenile unit as well.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I have a passion for helping people. I became a therapist to help and encourage people. I have a wide variety of experience. I worked in community health for several years. During that time, I saw a multitude up clients with a variety of issues to include but not limited to addiction, depression, bi - polar disorder, and many others. I provided care inpatient and outpatient and ran many different types of groups for adults and children. I worked with children and families on our juvenile unit as well.
(216) 284-1471 View (216) 284-1471
Photo of Ann-Marie Miglionico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ann-Marie Miglionico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand the profound impact that past experiences can have on your life today. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and rooted in a deep respect for your unique journey. I provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore and process difficult emotions at your own pace. Together, we’ll work to build resilience, foster healing, and empower you to regain control of your life. Trust is earned, and I am committed to walking beside you, honoring your story, and helping you find a path toward lasting peace and wellbeing.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand the profound impact that past experiences can have on your life today. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and rooted in a deep respect for your unique journey. I provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore and process difficult emotions at your own pace. Together, we’ll work to build resilience, foster healing, and empower you to regain control of your life. Trust is earned, and I am committed to walking beside you, honoring your story, and helping you find a path toward lasting peace and wellbeing.
(612) 712-5512 View (612) 712-5512
Photo of Jye Breckenridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Jye Breckenridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Online Only
Many people turn to psychotherapy or counseling for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, painful relationship patterns, feeling stuck, or sometimes just the feeling that something is missing from life. Sometimes we may not have the words to describe our feelings, struggles or suffering. However, with insight into past relationships and experiences, many people can make progress immediately towards overcoming these difficulties and becoming more effective in their work and relationships.
Many people turn to psychotherapy or counseling for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, painful relationship patterns, feeling stuck, or sometimes just the feeling that something is missing from life. Sometimes we may not have the words to describe our feelings, struggles or suffering. However, with insight into past relationships and experiences, many people can make progress immediately towards overcoming these difficulties and becoming more effective in their work and relationships.
(614) 953-5994 View (614) 953-5994
Photo of Beth Mishkind Roth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Beth Mishkind Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in evidenced-based treatments for children, adolescents, and families. My approach to treatment is heavily skill-based, goal oriented, and highly collaborative. I view the parents/guardians as experts in their child, and feel that together, we form a unified team. My practice includes: Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, OCD, Parent-Child Conflict/Skill Development, Phobias, and Self-Esteem Enhancement. I also specialize in working with the siblings of children with special needs, including developmental disabilities and special healthcare needs, to address family dynamics and coping skills development.
I specialize in evidenced-based treatments for children, adolescents, and families. My approach to treatment is heavily skill-based, goal oriented, and highly collaborative. I view the parents/guardians as experts in their child, and feel that together, we form a unified team. My practice includes: Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, OCD, Parent-Child Conflict/Skill Development, Phobias, and Self-Esteem Enhancement. I also specialize in working with the siblings of children with special needs, including developmental disabilities and special healthcare needs, to address family dynamics and coping skills development.
(216) 868-7258 View (216) 868-7258
Photo of Lydia Mahaney, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Lydia Mahaney
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
In times of uncertainty and challenge, it’s natural to experience fear, grief, and doubt about the future. The rise of division and hardship in our world can leave us feeling unsettled. If you're struggling with these emotions, know that you are not alone. I offer a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals of all identities, where you can feel safe to explore and process your feelings. Together, we can find ways to move forward with strength, compassion, and resilience. You deserve to be heard and supported.
In times of uncertainty and challenge, it’s natural to experience fear, grief, and doubt about the future. The rise of division and hardship in our world can leave us feeling unsettled. If you're struggling with these emotions, know that you are not alone. I offer a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals of all identities, where you can feel safe to explore and process your feelings. Together, we can find ways to move forward with strength, compassion, and resilience. You deserve to be heard and supported.
(513) 586-5572 View (513) 586-5572
Photo of Rick Reihing, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC S
Rick Reihing
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC S
Online Only
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or relationship struggles, you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to support you through a compassionate, collaborative approach tailored to your needs. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can begin healing and find relief. With over 14 years of experience as a firefighter and paramedic—and 4 years of service in the U.S. Air Force—I understand the emotional toll of high-stress roles. I use CBT, DBT, EMDR, and stress-reduction techniques to help reduce symptoms, process trauma, and restore your emotional well-being. Clients can expect a supportive atm
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, or relationship struggles, you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here to support you through a compassionate, collaborative approach tailored to your needs. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can begin healing and find relief. With over 14 years of experience as a firefighter and paramedic—and 4 years of service in the U.S. Air Force—I understand the emotional toll of high-stress roles. I use CBT, DBT, EMDR, and stress-reduction techniques to help reduce symptoms, process trauma, and restore your emotional well-being. Clients can expect a supportive atm
(920) 561-2114 View (920) 561-2114
Photo of Dustin J Lindeman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, CMHC, LPC
Dustin J Lindeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, CMHC, LPC
Serves Area
I’m passionate about working with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward—whether they’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or major life changes. They’re looking for a space where they can be real, feel heard, and start making sense of what they’re going through. Together, we work toward clarity, confidence, and meaningful growth.
I’m passionate about working with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward—whether they’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or major life changes. They’re looking for a space where they can be real, feel heard, and start making sense of what they’re going through. Together, we work toward clarity, confidence, and meaningful growth.
(330) 836-8090 View (330) 836-8090
Photo of Donna Murray, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Donna Murray
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Online Only
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
(216) 677-2386 View (216) 677-2386
Photo of Isabel A Sanchez-Cummings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSSA, MPA
Isabel A Sanchez-Cummings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSSA, MPA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
It is my pleasure and privilege to engage clients one-to-one to explore patterns and identify desired changes. Typical areas of concern are emotional well-being, managing stress, relationship or family issues, and making desired changes in behavior. My goals are to assist individuals in the areas of 1) Decision-making, 2) Developing and implementing coping skills, 3) Identifying and using internal and external resources, and 4) Self-Empowerment and Acceptance.
It is my pleasure and privilege to engage clients one-to-one to explore patterns and identify desired changes. Typical areas of concern are emotional well-being, managing stress, relationship or family issues, and making desired changes in behavior. My goals are to assist individuals in the areas of 1) Decision-making, 2) Developing and implementing coping skills, 3) Identifying and using internal and external resources, and 4) Self-Empowerment and Acceptance.
(440) 276-3665 View (440) 276-3665
Photo of Marissa Pelsozy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Marissa Pelsozy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Serves Area
Marissa earned her Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s degree in Social Work at Cleveland State University. She is currently licensed as an Independent Social Worker in the State of Ohio and has been practicing for 15 + years working with adolescents, adults and families. Marissa has several years working in the psychiatric hospital setting addressing the needs of adults who are in an immediate crisis, and those who are seeking outpatient services. She has done therapeutic programming in high schools regarding self esteem and depression. Marissa also has experience working with couples to promote healthier relationships.
Marissa earned her Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s degree in Social Work at Cleveland State University. She is currently licensed as an Independent Social Worker in the State of Ohio and has been practicing for 15 + years working with adolescents, adults and families. Marissa has several years working in the psychiatric hospital setting addressing the needs of adults who are in an immediate crisis, and those who are seeking outpatient services. She has done therapeutic programming in high schools regarding self esteem and depression. Marissa also has experience working with couples to promote healthier relationships.
(440) 291-2010 View (440) 291-2010
Photo of Greg Stewart - Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv, LPC
Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv, LPC
Serves Area
Virtual only! I live in TX. I authored two books that I use: I3 (cubed): Information, Interpretation, Intensity - Unlock the Inner Strength Behind Your Negative Emotions and I3 for Couples: Facing Our Negative Emotions to Build Intimacy in Marriage Both are available on my website. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. If we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives.
Virtual only! I live in TX. I authored two books that I use: I3 (cubed): Information, Interpretation, Intensity - Unlock the Inner Strength Behind Your Negative Emotions and I3 for Couples: Facing Our Negative Emotions to Build Intimacy in Marriage Both are available on my website. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. If we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives.
(614) 825-3763 View (614) 825-3763
Photo of Patrick Scanlan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Patrick Scanlan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I work with adults, seniors and young people who are experiencing depression, and anxiety. I also work with couples who want to get to the root of the difficult issues in front of them and develop new ways to meet their needs in a way that honors them as individuals and as partners. I work with clients to help them build resilience in a judgment-free setting. Let’s work together to take the first step towards change.
I work with adults, seniors and young people who are experiencing depression, and anxiety. I also work with couples who want to get to the root of the difficult issues in front of them and develop new ways to meet their needs in a way that honors them as individuals and as partners. I work with clients to help them build resilience in a judgment-free setting. Let’s work together to take the first step towards change.
(440) 276-6839 View (440) 276-6839
Photo of Megan Dowds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Megan Dowds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My ultimate goal is to provide a welcoming, non-judgmental space to work through whatever has brought you to counseling. At a minimum, I want you to feel better and be more at peace with your life.
My ultimate goal is to provide a welcoming, non-judgmental space to work through whatever has brought you to counseling. At a minimum, I want you to feel better and be more at peace with your life.
(740) 585-5295 View (740) 585-5295
Photo of Sherry L Gibson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, CCATP
Sherry L Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, CCATP
Serves Area
Each person has characteristic ways of managing their emotional reactions to their unique life challenges. Whether it be worry and anxiety, the loss of a loved one, relationship conflict, anger, or finding direction and purpose, I am here to help you reclaim your joy, strengthen your relationships and rediscover your sense of adventure. Together we will identify patterns of behavior, help you understand and process your feelings, and then work to find ways to manage and move beyond your challenges. Life can get tough, but you are tougher! Psychotherapy can help you explore your issues, improve insight and develop life-long skills.
Each person has characteristic ways of managing their emotional reactions to their unique life challenges. Whether it be worry and anxiety, the loss of a loved one, relationship conflict, anger, or finding direction and purpose, I am here to help you reclaim your joy, strengthen your relationships and rediscover your sense of adventure. Together we will identify patterns of behavior, help you understand and process your feelings, and then work to find ways to manage and move beyond your challenges. Life can get tough, but you are tougher! Psychotherapy can help you explore your issues, improve insight and develop life-long skills.
(216) 279-5122 View (216) 279-5122

See more therapy options for Gates Mills

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Gates Mills, OH

20+

Average cost per session

$132

Therapists in Gates Mills, OH who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
92% Depression
80% Self Esteem
76% Coping Skills
72% Relationship Issues
72% Stress
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
75% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Gates Mills, OH see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Gates Mills?

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.