Therapists in Topeka, KS

Photo of Thomas S Parish in Topeka, KS
Thomas S Parish
PhD, CTRTC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
Need some help dealing with the stresses, frustrations and challenges that you are facing? Are there family, workplace, or relationship issues that need to be addressed? With a focus on finding effective alternatives, my clients learn how to move forward with greater confidence. experiencing greater happiness and fulfillment.
Need some help dealing with the stresses, frustrations and challenges that you are facing? Are there family, workplace, or relationship issues that need to be addressed? With a focus on finding effective alternatives, my clients learn how to move forward with greater confidence. experiencing greater happiness and fulfillment.
(785) 509-7730 View (785) 509-7730
Photo of Joycelyn G Parish Ph.D in Topeka, KS
Joycelyn G Parish Ph.D
PhD, LCP, CTRTC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
As a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist, Board Certified PTSD Clinician, and Certified Reality Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, families and groups using interventions designed to strengthen individuals, couples, marriages, and families and to increase personal/familial happiness. Issues addressed include adjustment disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship issues, developmental issues and concerns, and family/parenting issues and concerns.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist, Board Certified PTSD Clinician, and Certified Reality Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, families and groups using interventions designed to strengthen individuals, couples, marriages, and families and to increase personal/familial happiness. Issues addressed include adjustment disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship issues, developmental issues and concerns, and family/parenting issues and concerns.
(785) 859-4018 View (785) 859-4018
Photo of Amanda Petrik-Gardner, LCPC, LPC, LIMHP, Counselor in Topeka, KS
Amanda Petrik-Gardner, LCPC, LPC, LIMHP
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614  (Online Only)
Anxiety & OCD take many forms. A fear of contamination, discomfort when something is out of order, distress that you might act on a harming/sexual thought, fear that you are a bad person or will be punished by a higher being, blasphemous thoughts that shake your faith, or fears you are responsible for something bad happening. Anxiety can look like worries about the future, fear of embarrassment, health anxiety, panic attacks, hair pulling and skin picking, or wondering if you're good enough. If any of this sounds familiar, my practice may be a good fit for you, as I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and BFRBs.
Anxiety & OCD take many forms. A fear of contamination, discomfort when something is out of order, distress that you might act on a harming/sexual thought, fear that you are a bad person or will be punished by a higher being, blasphemous thoughts that shake your faith, or fears you are responsible for something bad happening. Anxiety can look like worries about the future, fear of embarrassment, health anxiety, panic attacks, hair pulling and skin picking, or wondering if you're good enough. If any of this sounds familiar, my practice may be a good fit for you, as I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and BFRBs.
(785) 477-9117 View (785) 477-9117
Photo of Ruben Luis Lara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Ruben Luis Lara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
As a therapist, I have years of experience with working with adults and children, all of whom come from unique backgrounds. This includes children in foster care, children and adults in a community mental health setting, as well as working with adults and children experiencing mental health crisis. My specialty is working with adults and children that struggle with anxiety, depression, bereavement, and have difficulty expressing or managing their frustration or anger. I also specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community when it comes to the unique challenges this marginalized group faces.
As a therapist, I have years of experience with working with adults and children, all of whom come from unique backgrounds. This includes children in foster care, children and adults in a community mental health setting, as well as working with adults and children experiencing mental health crisis. My specialty is working with adults and children that struggle with anxiety, depression, bereavement, and have difficulty expressing or managing their frustration or anger. I also specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community when it comes to the unique challenges this marginalized group faces.
(785) 262-8446 View (785) 262-8446
Photo of Tonya K Ricklefs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Tonya K Ricklefs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
I enjoy working with people to provide services where they feel they can be their genuine self. I love working with people who have complex issues that we can work together to take one step at a time. Mental health is an ongoing process that involves work and self discovery. I work in a variety of areas involving veterans, military, divorce, parenting, sexual health, sexual orientation, and gender issues.
I enjoy working with people to provide services where they feel they can be their genuine self. I love working with people who have complex issues that we can work together to take one step at a time. Mental health is an ongoing process that involves work and self discovery. I work in a variety of areas involving veterans, military, divorce, parenting, sexual health, sexual orientation, and gender issues.
(785) 524-2481 View (785) 524-2481
Photo of April M Shaw in Topeka, KS
April M Shaw
LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
I have dedicated my practice to helping my community's children, adolescents, adults, and families live the best lives possible. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families in many different capacities. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood changes, parenting, or other life challenges, come see me. Together, we will come up with strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your struggles.
I have dedicated my practice to helping my community's children, adolescents, adults, and families live the best lives possible. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families in many different capacities. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood changes, parenting, or other life challenges, come see me. Together, we will come up with strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your struggles.
(785) 679-7874 View (785) 679-7874
Photo of Jennifer Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Jennifer Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Like many of us, most of my clients are seeking greater meaning in their lives, improved connection and satisfaction in relationships, and relief from loneliness, worry, rumination, and shame. My practice is based on values that emphasize acceptance/non-judgment, compassion, and authenticity. Starting therapy doesn't need to have a rigid plan or agenda. Simply being curious or wanting to feel better is a great place to start. We all need a space where we don't feel judged and are free to explore who we are, what we want, and who we want to become.
Like many of us, most of my clients are seeking greater meaning in their lives, improved connection and satisfaction in relationships, and relief from loneliness, worry, rumination, and shame. My practice is based on values that emphasize acceptance/non-judgment, compassion, and authenticity. Starting therapy doesn't need to have a rigid plan or agenda. Simply being curious or wanting to feel better is a great place to start. We all need a space where we don't feel judged and are free to explore who we are, what we want, and who we want to become.
(785) 630-8465 View (785) 630-8465
Photo of Emily Hoffman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Topeka, KS
Emily Hoffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66604
If you want to feel calmer and more confident while improving your relationships with loved ones, I can help. Since 2012, I have worked with children, teenagers, women, couples and families to reduce conflict and stress, improve communication skills and gain mastery over their emotions and reactions. I'm a trauma-informed therapist committed to helping my clients learn how to regulate their emotions and heal from their past to live a fulfilling life. My work focuses on identifying problematic patterns and working collaboratively with my clients to make the necessary changes.
If you want to feel calmer and more confident while improving your relationships with loved ones, I can help. Since 2012, I have worked with children, teenagers, women, couples and families to reduce conflict and stress, improve communication skills and gain mastery over their emotions and reactions. I'm a trauma-informed therapist committed to helping my clients learn how to regulate their emotions and heal from their past to live a fulfilling life. My work focuses on identifying problematic patterns and working collaboratively with my clients to make the necessary changes.
(785) 213-8322 View (785) 213-8322
Photo of Rachel Wells, Counselor in Topeka, KS
Rachel Wells
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
I am a graduate from Emporia State University, with a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. I received my clinical license in February of 2015. I have several years of experience in private practice. I take pride in serving clients in the Shawnee County and surrounding communities. I strive to assist you in reaching your own personal emotional and mental health goals by gaining a better sense of independence through the therapeutic process.
I am a graduate from Emporia State University, with a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. I received my clinical license in February of 2015. I have several years of experience in private practice. I take pride in serving clients in the Shawnee County and surrounding communities. I strive to assist you in reaching your own personal emotional and mental health goals by gaining a better sense of independence through the therapeutic process.
(785) 429-4230 View (785) 429-4230
Photo of Stacey M Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Stacey M Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I’m a Therapist located in Southwest Topeka who works with Children and Families. Many of my clients come in to address topics such as Anxiety/Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Parent/Family Challenges, and Life Transitions. I am particularly passionate about serving Children, Teens, Young Adults, Parents & Families. Personal life and parenting experiences have given me valuable insight as to what families are going through when one member is struggling with issues.
I’m a Therapist located in Southwest Topeka who works with Children and Families. Many of my clients come in to address topics such as Anxiety/Depression, ADHD, Trauma, Parent/Family Challenges, and Life Transitions. I am particularly passionate about serving Children, Teens, Young Adults, Parents & Families. Personal life and parenting experiences have given me valuable insight as to what families are going through when one member is struggling with issues.
(785) 347-6904 View (785) 347-6904
Photo of Morgan Thorn Grey, Counselor in Topeka, KS
Morgan Thorn Grey
Counselor, LCPC, ExAT, IQM
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66603
The tension in your chest is there again. You can hardly catch your breath. So much to do! Your mind is racing and you feel like you are drowning. Even the smallest things are irritating. You just screamed at your son for spilling a drink, and now feel terrible about it. You missed another assignment at work because you’re so distracted. Confidence is at an all-time low. “I can’t do anything right,” you tell yourself. You know something needs to change, but you’re paralyzed by anxiety. Overthinking every choice until you can’t take any action. It’s gotten to the point where you just want to stay in bed, avoid everyone, and give up.
The tension in your chest is there again. You can hardly catch your breath. So much to do! Your mind is racing and you feel like you are drowning. Even the smallest things are irritating. You just screamed at your son for spilling a drink, and now feel terrible about it. You missed another assignment at work because you’re so distracted. Confidence is at an all-time low. “I can’t do anything right,” you tell yourself. You know something needs to change, but you’re paralyzed by anxiety. Overthinking every choice until you can’t take any action. It’s gotten to the point where you just want to stay in bed, avoid everyone, and give up.
(785) 261-9068 View (785) 261-9068
Photo of Jaime Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Jaime Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find yourself stuck in behaviors which confuse or frustrate you? Are there times you feel your mind is in conflict with itself, longing to achieve goals yet repeating self sabotaging behaviors. Are there people in your life you would like to have healthy boundaries with? Would you like to master tools to manage conflict in healthier ways? Would you like to develop skills to use in any relationships or situation that help you manage the emotional highs and lows of life? Do you believe it's possible to find your core self and navigate life with confidence, inner calm, and peace of mind?
Do you find yourself stuck in behaviors which confuse or frustrate you? Are there times you feel your mind is in conflict with itself, longing to achieve goals yet repeating self sabotaging behaviors. Are there people in your life you would like to have healthy boundaries with? Would you like to master tools to manage conflict in healthier ways? Would you like to develop skills to use in any relationships or situation that help you manage the emotional highs and lows of life? Do you believe it's possible to find your core self and navigate life with confidence, inner calm, and peace of mind?
(785) 630-5128 View (785) 630-5128
Photo of Christy Tomanek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Christy Tomanek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Life is not always easy to maneuver through. We become paralyzed and confused, not knowing which direction to take. There are times that we need help processing our emotions. I am passionate about being present while you walk through the journey of healing. My commitment is to provide you with a calm and supportive environment allowing you the space to take those needed steps. I believe that everyone has an inner strength to overcome whatever challenges you are facing. With guidance, you will find this strength needed to overcome any issues you are struggling with.
Life is not always easy to maneuver through. We become paralyzed and confused, not knowing which direction to take. There are times that we need help processing our emotions. I am passionate about being present while you walk through the journey of healing. My commitment is to provide you with a calm and supportive environment allowing you the space to take those needed steps. I believe that everyone has an inner strength to overcome whatever challenges you are facing. With guidance, you will find this strength needed to overcome any issues you are struggling with.
(785) 390-2108 View (785) 390-2108
Photo of Chris MacDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Chris MacDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
Are you feeling stuck? If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety? Having problems in relationships, or with trauma related issues? We have experienced and qualified therapists at Renew Therapy Group who can help get you moving in a new and positive direction. If you are experiencing problems related to chemical dependency, you will find a therapist at Renew Therapy Group an exceptional fit. If you have a child, teenager, or young adult experiencing behavioral or emotional problems, many of our therapists are parents themselves in addition to being clinically sound providers.
Are you feeling stuck? If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety? Having problems in relationships, or with trauma related issues? We have experienced and qualified therapists at Renew Therapy Group who can help get you moving in a new and positive direction. If you are experiencing problems related to chemical dependency, you will find a therapist at Renew Therapy Group an exceptional fit. If you have a child, teenager, or young adult experiencing behavioral or emotional problems, many of our therapists are parents themselves in addition to being clinically sound providers.
(785) 264-4118 View (785) 264-4118
Photo of Ryan Kemp-Pappan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Ryan Kemp-Pappan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604
I am a middle-aged, punk rock contemplative with the ability to connect with just about anyone. If you are looking for a therapist that provides honesty, a kind ear, and an inexhaustible belief in the human spirit's ability to grow and change, then I may just be the therapist you have been looking for. I believe that all of us are able to awaken our truest and healthiest self. I believe that the path towards our truest and healthiest self is diverse and fluid. I believe that life is an opportunity to learn, grow, connect, and suffer well as we venture towards our truest and healthiest self.
I am a middle-aged, punk rock contemplative with the ability to connect with just about anyone. If you are looking for a therapist that provides honesty, a kind ear, and an inexhaustible belief in the human spirit's ability to grow and change, then I may just be the therapist you have been looking for. I believe that all of us are able to awaken our truest and healthiest self. I believe that the path towards our truest and healthiest self is diverse and fluid. I believe that life is an opportunity to learn, grow, connect, and suffer well as we venture towards our truest and healthiest self.
(785) 264-4116 View (785) 264-4116
Photo of Katie Sears, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Katie Sears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66603
There are two populations that I prefer to work with, children(9+)that struggle with Anxiety, ADHD(Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) and ODD(Oppositional Defiant Disorder) and adults who struggle with the same issues due to childhood trauma.
There are two populations that I prefer to work with, children(9+)that struggle with Anxiety, ADHD(Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) and ODD(Oppositional Defiant Disorder) and adults who struggle with the same issues due to childhood trauma.
(785) 491-7335 View (785) 491-7335
Photo of Meghan West, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Meghan West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66618  (Online Only)
Meghan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, Meghan will use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and General Psychotherapy. Many people benefit from the use of different modalities. Meghan is known for being a good listener, caring, sensitive, and enthusiastic.
Meghan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, Meghan will use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and General Psychotherapy. Many people benefit from the use of different modalities. Meghan is known for being a good listener, caring, sensitive, and enthusiastic.
(785) 322-9229 View (785) 322-9229
Photo of Joy Bishop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Joy Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
Currently Not Accepting New Clients. "No one ever told me that grief felt so much like fear" -C.S. Lewis. Hello, I am here to help you on your personal grief and loss journey. Having someone you love die, can feel unbearable. I have provided a safe place where your voice is heard. Grieving and mourning can take place. Death of a loved one, loss of a career and loss of relationships can all leave you feeling hopeless and alone. I will sit with you in this darkness. I will hold hope for you. I have witnessed personally and professionally that there is light in all this darkness.
Currently Not Accepting New Clients. "No one ever told me that grief felt so much like fear" -C.S. Lewis. Hello, I am here to help you on your personal grief and loss journey. Having someone you love die, can feel unbearable. I have provided a safe place where your voice is heard. Grieving and mourning can take place. Death of a loved one, loss of a career and loss of relationships can all leave you feeling hopeless and alone. I will sit with you in this darkness. I will hold hope for you. I have witnessed personally and professionally that there is light in all this darkness.
(785) 371-1327 View (785) 371-1327
Photo of Liz Munns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Topeka, KS
Liz Munns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Searching for the right therapist can be daunting. The prospect of starting therapy can be scary. It can be especially frustrating to try many different things to feel better, yet never finding a sense of long- term relief. Sometimes we all need extra support to start this healing journey– I know this from a deeply personal level. I have found that lasting change must involve our whole self- body, mind, and spirit. I use mindfulness skills to help bring awareness to how thoughts, feelings and sensations impact our nervous system and sense of well-being and to help you heal those places where you feel stuck and depleted.
Searching for the right therapist can be daunting. The prospect of starting therapy can be scary. It can be especially frustrating to try many different things to feel better, yet never finding a sense of long- term relief. Sometimes we all need extra support to start this healing journey– I know this from a deeply personal level. I have found that lasting change must involve our whole self- body, mind, and spirit. I use mindfulness skills to help bring awareness to how thoughts, feelings and sensations impact our nervous system and sense of well-being and to help you heal those places where you feel stuck and depleted.
(785) 269-0504 View (785) 269-0504
Photo of Krista Bolin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Krista Bolin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66603  (Online Only)
Krista Bolin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been practicing for 6 years in the state of Missouri, in both community-based and clinical work, to assist adults in overcoming depression, anxiety, and trauma as well as mood and substance abuse disorders. Krista graduated from the University of Missouri with her Bachelor's degree in Psychology, where she also earned her Master’s degree in Social Work with focused studies in dual diagnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Krista Bolin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been practicing for 6 years in the state of Missouri, in both community-based and clinical work, to assist adults in overcoming depression, anxiety, and trauma as well as mood and substance abuse disorders. Krista graduated from the University of Missouri with her Bachelor's degree in Psychology, where she also earned her Master’s degree in Social Work with focused studies in dual diagnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
(785) 329-9541 View (785) 329-9541

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Topeka, KS

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Topeka, KS who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
89% Anxiety
75% Stress
74% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
57% Medicaid
53% Aetna

How Therapists in Topeka, KS see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Topeka?

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.