Therapists in Bellevue, WA

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Photo of Andrew R Galbreath, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Andrew R Galbreath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CDP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
As a therapist who specializes in the treatment of both mental health and substance use disorders, my approach centers around the strengths of the client while holding paramount the client's aspirations, needs, and goals. I believe in working collaboratively with clients to identify the issues they deem most important. Please visit my website for more details: www.andrewtherapy.com. I am available by phone and email Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 12 pm - 6 pm.
As a therapist who specializes in the treatment of both mental health and substance use disorders, my approach centers around the strengths of the client while holding paramount the client's aspirations, needs, and goals. I believe in working collaboratively with clients to identify the issues they deem most important. Please visit my website for more details: www.andrewtherapy.com. I am available by phone and email Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 12 pm - 6 pm.
(425) 409-2962 View (425) 409-2962
Photo of Jaclyn Watson, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Jaclyn Watson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am so glad you have decided to embark on this journey to live a fuller, happier, and purpose-filled life. I love working alongside clients to maximize their potential and help them find hope and healing for the many difficulties that come with life. My counseling approach integrates research supported techniques with your personal value system. My clients who find the most impact from our sessions are willing to try new things and can appreciate practicality, humor, and directness.
I am so glad you have decided to embark on this journey to live a fuller, happier, and purpose-filled life. I love working alongside clients to maximize their potential and help them find hope and healing for the many difficulties that come with life. My counseling approach integrates research supported techniques with your personal value system. My clients who find the most impact from our sessions are willing to try new things and can appreciate practicality, humor, and directness.
(253) 201-4069 View (253) 201-4069
Photo of Bridget E Friedman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Bridget E Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Life is a journey. It can be joyful, sad, messy, and complicated (sometimes all at the same time!). My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, supportive space for you to explore all of these aspects of your life. I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, trauma, stress, life transitions, and problems with self-esteem.
Life is a journey. It can be joyful, sad, messy, and complicated (sometimes all at the same time!). My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, supportive space for you to explore all of these aspects of your life. I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, trauma, stress, life transitions, and problems with self-esteem.
(425) 225-4637 View (425) 225-4637
Photo of Grief Counseling Northwest, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Grief Counseling Northwest
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
Everyone experiences loss and grief in their life, and every person goes through the grief process in their own way and at their own rate. I like to serve as a guide/facilitator as each client works toward "healing" on their unique journey through grief. I have been a Hospice Bereavement Counselor for 12 years and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, adults and seniors. I believe in active listening, and provide caring support and resources to grieving clients.
Everyone experiences loss and grief in their life, and every person goes through the grief process in their own way and at their own rate. I like to serve as a guide/facilitator as each client works toward "healing" on their unique journey through grief. I have been a Hospice Bereavement Counselor for 12 years and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, adults and seniors. I believe in active listening, and provide caring support and resources to grieving clients.
(206) 639-2473 View (206) 639-2473
Photo of Sharon Maffett, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Sharon Maffett
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98015
Not accepting new clients
In addition to psychotherapy, I am also a nutritionist and a Reiki and Shamanic practitioner. This unique combination allows me to embrace a mind-body-spirit philosophy within my practice. I believe the best healing occurs through a holistic and integrative approach, achieving wellness through emotional, nutritional, physical, and spiritual aspects of life. I also believe successful therapy requires mutual trust, respect, and acceptance; I bring these important qualities into our working relationship. We are a team - I can assist you in rediscovering your inner truths and power so that you may create the life you want to lead.
In addition to psychotherapy, I am also a nutritionist and a Reiki and Shamanic practitioner. This unique combination allows me to embrace a mind-body-spirit philosophy within my practice. I believe the best healing occurs through a holistic and integrative approach, achieving wellness through emotional, nutritional, physical, and spiritual aspects of life. I also believe successful therapy requires mutual trust, respect, and acceptance; I bring these important qualities into our working relationship. We are a team - I can assist you in rediscovering your inner truths and power so that you may create the life you want to lead.
(425) 224-3609 View (425) 224-3609
Photo of Mark Liu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Mark Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I perceive life as a journey, consisting of searching meaning and coping: Meaning in different roles and aspects of life motivates us to move forward; coping is strategies to get there from here. However, at different life stages, we often got stuck because of different reasons. Thus, either we no longer can see the life meaning(s) and/or our coping strategies are no longer effective. We are likely stuck under these circumstances, which leads to sufferings. I believe that counseling is a catalyst to facilitate the needed changes & adjustments to get unstuck and to have a meaningful life again.
I perceive life as a journey, consisting of searching meaning and coping: Meaning in different roles and aspects of life motivates us to move forward; coping is strategies to get there from here. However, at different life stages, we often got stuck because of different reasons. Thus, either we no longer can see the life meaning(s) and/or our coping strategies are no longer effective. We are likely stuck under these circumstances, which leads to sufferings. I believe that counseling is a catalyst to facilitate the needed changes & adjustments to get unstuck and to have a meaningful life again.
(425) 374-0069 View (425) 374-0069
Photo of Mei Thompson (Yijing Mei Thompson), Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Mei Thompson (Yijing Mei Thompson)
Counselor, MS, LPC-A, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
“Shame dies when stories are told in a safe environment”. I believe that building a safe and genuine relationship with clients is essential in facilitating healing. Relating to others in an empathetic and genuine way has always been my nature, and I bring these to my counseling sessions. I believe that when we help our clients recognize their own strength and resiliency, they discover a new potential within themselves. I feel a special connection working with clients who identify as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). I am excited to use my knowledge and experience to help them work through their unique struggles.
“Shame dies when stories are told in a safe environment”. I believe that building a safe and genuine relationship with clients is essential in facilitating healing. Relating to others in an empathetic and genuine way has always been my nature, and I bring these to my counseling sessions. I believe that when we help our clients recognize their own strength and resiliency, they discover a new potential within themselves. I feel a special connection working with clients who identify as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). I am excited to use my knowledge and experience to help them work through their unique struggles.
(206) 208-1439 View (206) 208-1439
Photo of Pornpan Gering, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Pornpan Gering
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped, depress, or misunderstood? Or do you feel confused and unsure what is next for you? You are not alone. I work with clients who experience a wide range of mental health challenges. As your therapist, we will work as a team to meet your mental health goals. I thoroughly believe that connecting with clients, building safe spaces, and developing a mutual sense of trust are the first steps to success.
Do you feel trapped, depress, or misunderstood? Or do you feel confused and unsure what is next for you? You are not alone. I work with clients who experience a wide range of mental health challenges. As your therapist, we will work as a team to meet your mental health goals. I thoroughly believe that connecting with clients, building safe spaces, and developing a mutual sense of trust are the first steps to success.
(425) 243-1444 x1 View (425) 243-1444 x1
Photo of Cara Floyd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Cara Floyd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MHP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Life is such a journey. Sometimes the journey takes you in expected and unexpected directions. Trying to navigate your way through all life's challenges alone can be overwhelming. Let me be a part of your journey and help you find direction and the skills needed to move forward. I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, and families struggling with issues related to parenting, communication, family relationships, challenging behaviors, family and life cycle adjustments, anxiety, depression, and trauma. We will work together in order to help you or your family reach the destination you are looking for.
Life is such a journey. Sometimes the journey takes you in expected and unexpected directions. Trying to navigate your way through all life's challenges alone can be overwhelming. Let me be a part of your journey and help you find direction and the skills needed to move forward. I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, and families struggling with issues related to parenting, communication, family relationships, challenging behaviors, family and life cycle adjustments, anxiety, depression, and trauma. We will work together in order to help you or your family reach the destination you are looking for.
(425) 549-9713 View (425) 549-9713
Photo of Jen Peters, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Jen Peters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating all forms of anxiety, including social anxiety, agoraphobia, specific phobias (e.g. spiders, flying, heights, driving), and panic disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience guiding parents toward more connected relationships with their children. I especially enjoy working with new moms and parents of toddlers. I also have a special interest helping individuals increase their self-esteem by helping you identify your strengths, increase your level of confidence, and create positive, healthy goals for yourself.
I specialize in treating all forms of anxiety, including social anxiety, agoraphobia, specific phobias (e.g. spiders, flying, heights, driving), and panic disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience guiding parents toward more connected relationships with their children. I especially enjoy working with new moms and parents of toddlers. I also have a special interest helping individuals increase their self-esteem by helping you identify your strengths, increase your level of confidence, and create positive, healthy goals for yourself.
(425) 437-3551 View (425) 437-3551
Photo of Katie Swartz, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Katie Swartz
Counselor, ACHT, CC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Those people who find their way to my practice have a deep desire to move out of reactive patterns from the past. There is a longing for healthy relationship and fulfilling work with a willingness to do what it takes to have it. Many have had therapy in the past, are clear about their issues, yet still find that they are dragging the same issues into relationships today.
Those people who find their way to my practice have a deep desire to move out of reactive patterns from the past. There is a longing for healthy relationship and fulfilling work with a willingness to do what it takes to have it. Many have had therapy in the past, are clear about their issues, yet still find that they are dragging the same issues into relationships today.
(206) 202-7693 x794 View (206) 202-7693 x794
Photo of Blair Schmautz UTurn Counseling, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Blair Schmautz UTurn Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State who received my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwest University in 2005. I am also trained as a Sex Addiction Therapist through the Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals with an emphasis in treating sexual compulsivity and addiction. I specialize in helping clients find healing and growth from trauma, stress, difficult life changes, depression, anxiety, and I also currently work with those experiencing sexual addiction and their partners. I utilize various approaches to specifically design a treatment plan for your needs.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State who received my Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwest University in 2005. I am also trained as a Sex Addiction Therapist through the Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals with an emphasis in treating sexual compulsivity and addiction. I specialize in helping clients find healing and growth from trauma, stress, difficult life changes, depression, anxiety, and I also currently work with those experiencing sexual addiction and their partners. I utilize various approaches to specifically design a treatment plan for your needs.
(425) 979-7324 View (425) 979-7324
Photo of Anna Redgrave Counseling & Coaching, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Anna Redgrave Counseling & Coaching
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
My experience & education strengthens my ability to empathize with & support clients across my areas of expertise incl ADHD, Trauma & Work life problems amongst other issues. Before becoming a counselor I worked in corporate IT and telco, and enjoy working with people in the tech space. My approach is personable & empathetic & pride myself on being down-to-earth & unpretentious. Clients have commented on how comfortable they feel working with me, trusting that I have their best interests at heart. When appropriate I am also known to have a spring in my step and smile on my face.
My experience & education strengthens my ability to empathize with & support clients across my areas of expertise incl ADHD, Trauma & Work life problems amongst other issues. Before becoming a counselor I worked in corporate IT and telco, and enjoy working with people in the tech space. My approach is personable & empathetic & pride myself on being down-to-earth & unpretentious. Clients have commented on how comfortable they feel working with me, trusting that I have their best interests at heart. When appropriate I am also known to have a spring in my step and smile on my face.
(509) 417-0690 View (509) 417-0690
Photo of Charity Laughlin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Charity Laughlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
It is common to feel loneliness and heartbreak when experiencing relationship difficulties (sexual concerns, poor communication, conflict without repair, lack of intimacy, codependence, wanting different things, working through a betrayal such as infidelity). I work with individuals, couples, and intimate partnerships who are experiencing relationship and sexual difficulties or mental health concerns, supporting each partner’s growth in self- and other-intimacy by helping each of you identify and skillfully communicate what you think, feel, and prefer and listen with curiosity and compassion as your partner does the same.
It is common to feel loneliness and heartbreak when experiencing relationship difficulties (sexual concerns, poor communication, conflict without repair, lack of intimacy, codependence, wanting different things, working through a betrayal such as infidelity). I work with individuals, couples, and intimate partnerships who are experiencing relationship and sexual difficulties or mental health concerns, supporting each partner’s growth in self- and other-intimacy by helping each of you identify and skillfully communicate what you think, feel, and prefer and listen with curiosity and compassion as your partner does the same.
(425) 357-7690 View (425) 357-7690
Photo of Chanel Ryssel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Chanel Ryssel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I believe that healing begins with being heard. The therapeutic relationship allows me to witness and attune to your experiences with acceptance and positive regard. Together in practice, we can foster internal exploration that leads to supported change. My therapeutic approach is guided by a feminist, person-in-the-environment perspective. Real wellness is grounded by insight into one's personal story, and how the language, habits, and our personal reactions influence our well-being and internal state.
I believe that healing begins with being heard. The therapeutic relationship allows me to witness and attune to your experiences with acceptance and positive regard. Together in practice, we can foster internal exploration that leads to supported change. My therapeutic approach is guided by a feminist, person-in-the-environment perspective. Real wellness is grounded by insight into one's personal story, and how the language, habits, and our personal reactions influence our well-being and internal state.
(206) 483-1502 View (206) 483-1502
Photo of Deb de Souza, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Deb de Souza
Counselor, MAEd, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I work with teens and adults experiencing OCD, and a wide range of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety and Agoraphobia. I aim to create a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, supportive therapeutic environment where individuals can learn all the necessary skills that allow them to live healthy, productive lives, aligned with their values.
I work with teens and adults experiencing OCD, and a wide range of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety and Agoraphobia. I aim to create a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, supportive therapeutic environment where individuals can learn all the necessary skills that allow them to live healthy, productive lives, aligned with their values.
(425) 207-4336 View (425) 207-4336
Photo of Pacific Behavioral Healthcare, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Pacific Behavioral Healthcare
Psychologist, PhD, CST, EMDR, CCPS, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Is your relationship struggling from a loss of closeness or intimacy? Does infidelity or sexual addiction have you considering divorce? If you’re struggling to connect or trust your partner, we can help! We are dedicated to fostering real change in clients lives. We are advancing the standard of care through empirical strategies to help you heal, connect, and guide you through the recovery & repair process. We create an intimate space where you can safely share, receive empathy, and create shared meaning to move through difficult circumstances together. Let us help you be heard, heal, and reignite a sense of connection.
Is your relationship struggling from a loss of closeness or intimacy? Does infidelity or sexual addiction have you considering divorce? If you’re struggling to connect or trust your partner, we can help! We are dedicated to fostering real change in clients lives. We are advancing the standard of care through empirical strategies to help you heal, connect, and guide you through the recovery & repair process. We create an intimate space where you can safely share, receive empathy, and create shared meaning to move through difficult circumstances together. Let us help you be heard, heal, and reignite a sense of connection.
(425) 214-9123 View (425) 214-9123
Photo of Carla Munger, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Carla Munger
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
You’ve got a ring on your finger and a date on your calendar, but you’re quickly realizing that wedding planning isn’t as blissful as you hoped. You’re overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, and exhausted. From decision fatigue to spotlight fright; family drama to bad bridesmaids; difficult vendors to tight budgets, and of course unpacking and letting go of the emotional baggage that you don’t want to carry into your marriage… engagement and wedding planning is an emotional maze. The truth is most brides feel tired, stressed, and often times isolated. Left untreated these feelings can develop into true anxiety, depression, and burnout.
You’ve got a ring on your finger and a date on your calendar, but you’re quickly realizing that wedding planning isn’t as blissful as you hoped. You’re overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, and exhausted. From decision fatigue to spotlight fright; family drama to bad bridesmaids; difficult vendors to tight budgets, and of course unpacking and letting go of the emotional baggage that you don’t want to carry into your marriage… engagement and wedding planning is an emotional maze. The truth is most brides feel tired, stressed, and often times isolated. Left untreated these feelings can develop into true anxiety, depression, and burnout.
(206) 535-2667 View (206) 535-2667
Photo of Marilyn T McCUNE, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Marilyn T McCUNE
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PhDc
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Marilyn McCune, MA, LMHC, Ph.D. Candidate, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing psychotherapy services to preteens, adolescents, and young adults. Marilyn McCune holds Masters degrees in Cognitive Science from University College Dublin, Ireland, and Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University, Santa Barbara, CA, and she is a Ph.D. Candidate (2023) in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in neuropsychology at Fielding Graduate University.
Marilyn McCune, MA, LMHC, Ph.D. Candidate, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing psychotherapy services to preteens, adolescents, and young adults. Marilyn McCune holds Masters degrees in Cognitive Science from University College Dublin, Ireland, and Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University, Santa Barbara, CA, and she is a Ph.D. Candidate (2023) in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in neuropsychology at Fielding Graduate University.
(206) 889-5562 View (206) 889-5562
Photo of Hemlata Mistry, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Hemlata Mistry
Counselor, MEd, RN, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
(206) 466-3534 View (206) 466-3534

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bellevue, WA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Premera
55% Regence
52% Aetna

How Therapists in Bellevue, WA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bellevue?

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.