Therapists in Milwaukie, OR

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Photo of Steven Ruiz Bettencourt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukie, OR
Steven Ruiz Bettencourt
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, CHT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Waitlist for new clients
I am a compassionate and intuitive licensed psychotherapist & hypnotist. I have been practicing for 40 years. I specialize in anger management, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties/couples counseling, motivation, personality disorders, EMDR and hypnosis for a variety of issues. I am a member of the Oregon Counseling Association, American Counseling Association, National Anger Management Association, Oregon Mediation Association, and I am a board member of the Oregon Hypnotherapy Association, and President of World Musado Federation. I am familiar with Spanish, as my father is from Spain although I am not fluent.
I am a compassionate and intuitive licensed psychotherapist & hypnotist. I have been practicing for 40 years. I specialize in anger management, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties/couples counseling, motivation, personality disorders, EMDR and hypnosis for a variety of issues. I am a member of the Oregon Counseling Association, American Counseling Association, National Anger Management Association, Oregon Mediation Association, and I am a board member of the Oregon Hypnotherapy Association, and President of World Musado Federation. I am familiar with Spanish, as my father is from Spain although I am not fluent.
(503) 496-7421 View (503) 496-7421
Photo of Mary Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukie, OR
Mary Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Are you struggling with past experiences and looking for someone who can join you in the journey to wholeness? I would love to support you as a trellis supports a growing, blooming plant! I have a lifetime of experiences working with diverse cultures internationally and here in the Portland area. This has given me invaluable insight into how our backgrounds contribute to our own unique stories and how we find healing and meaning in our life. For about 8 years, I have worked as both a child/family therapist and an adult therapist focusing on trauma across the life span. I work primarily with older teens and young adults.
Are you struggling with past experiences and looking for someone who can join you in the journey to wholeness? I would love to support you as a trellis supports a growing, blooming plant! I have a lifetime of experiences working with diverse cultures internationally and here in the Portland area. This has given me invaluable insight into how our backgrounds contribute to our own unique stories and how we find healing and meaning in our life. For about 8 years, I have worked as both a child/family therapist and an adult therapist focusing on trauma across the life span. I work primarily with older teens and young adults.
(503) 461-8892 View (503) 461-8892
Photo of Taylor Ocasio, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukie, OR
Taylor Ocasio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222  (Online Only)
As a therapist I value the connection between myself and my clients which I believe to be one of the most important components of therapy. I am dedicated to working with people who feel stuck in their lives. My goal is to help clients explore how their variety of experiences plays into the whole of their lives and find a unique solution to whatever hurdles you may face. As my client, you and I will explore the nature of your struggles and come up with an evidence-based plan to help you walk the path to healing. I am a believer that as long as you are willing to try, you can get to where you want to be.
As a therapist I value the connection between myself and my clients which I believe to be one of the most important components of therapy. I am dedicated to working with people who feel stuck in their lives. My goal is to help clients explore how their variety of experiences plays into the whole of their lives and find a unique solution to whatever hurdles you may face. As my client, you and I will explore the nature of your struggles and come up with an evidence-based plan to help you walk the path to healing. I am a believer that as long as you are willing to try, you can get to where you want to be.
(503) 877-9881 View (503) 877-9881
Photo of Eileen Masover, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukie, OR
Eileen Masover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile page. My focus as a therapist is to help individuals improve the quality of their lives. Each one of us has our own life path, and I am here to help you explore your path and make positive changes. I envision our work as empowering and leading you to a healthier and more fulfilling life. We all experience times in our lives that feel difficult, perhaps even impossible. During those times, we may feel that we have no one we can talk to or who understands how we are feeling, and it is then we choose to seek out therapy.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile page. My focus as a therapist is to help individuals improve the quality of their lives. Each one of us has our own life path, and I am here to help you explore your path and make positive changes. I envision our work as empowering and leading you to a healthier and more fulfilling life. We all experience times in our lives that feel difficult, perhaps even impossible. During those times, we may feel that we have no one we can talk to or who understands how we are feeling, and it is then we choose to seek out therapy.
(503) 496-7822 View (503) 496-7822
Photo of Anita Abelsen-Gay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukie, OR
Anita Abelsen-Gay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97267
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and their families. I believe that the counseling process is the basis from which change can occur. It is my desire to create a safe environment where individuals feel their experiences are understood and accepted. Together we will discuss treatment goals and objectives. Areas of experience include attachment, sensory processing, social skills, conflict management, ADD/ADHD, anger/opposition, anxieties, depression, grief/loss, trauma, transitions, parent-child relations and divorce/blended families.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and their families. I believe that the counseling process is the basis from which change can occur. It is my desire to create a safe environment where individuals feel their experiences are understood and accepted. Together we will discuss treatment goals and objectives. Areas of experience include attachment, sensory processing, social skills, conflict management, ADD/ADHD, anger/opposition, anxieties, depression, grief/loss, trauma, transitions, parent-child relations and divorce/blended families.
(503) 766-5967 View (503) 766-5967
Photo of Sara Booth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukie, OR
Sara Booth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Hello! Thank you for thinking about inviting me on your journey! It is courageous work to explore the depths of who we are, why we are, and how we want to be in this world. I truly believe that we are all our own best healers and that we all have the inner resource necessary to be our most authentic self. I find infinite value in working with people to create an oasis where people can explore which aspects of vitality can elicit healing and how to balance the strength that comes from struggle.
Hello! Thank you for thinking about inviting me on your journey! It is courageous work to explore the depths of who we are, why we are, and how we want to be in this world. I truly believe that we are all our own best healers and that we all have the inner resource necessary to be our most authentic self. I find infinite value in working with people to create an oasis where people can explore which aspects of vitality can elicit healing and how to balance the strength that comes from struggle.
(503) 212-9946 View (503) 212-9946
Photo of Stuart Malkin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukie, OR
Stuart Malkin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97267
Waitlist for new clients
Depression, anxiety, and relational stress can keep you from living your life to its full potential. While difficult and stressful experiences are unavoidable in life, there is a way for you to find joy, purpose, and passion again with the right support. With the help of mindfulness-based counseling, I can help you heal and thrive again! Some of the issues I can help you with include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, couple's work, co-dependency, historical trauma, Men's Issues, cultural oppression, life purpose/career, parenting issues, creative blocks, and Climate anxiety and grief.
Depression, anxiety, and relational stress can keep you from living your life to its full potential. While difficult and stressful experiences are unavoidable in life, there is a way for you to find joy, purpose, and passion again with the right support. With the help of mindfulness-based counseling, I can help you heal and thrive again! Some of the issues I can help you with include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, couple's work, co-dependency, historical trauma, Men's Issues, cultural oppression, life purpose/career, parenting issues, creative blocks, and Climate anxiety and grief.
(971) 203-0686 View (971) 203-0686
Photo of Compassionate Interventions, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Milwaukie, OR
Compassionate Interventions
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CADCIII, CAI, CTP
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
I specialize in interventions, so my ideal client is the family member or friend of an addict. This "concerned other" is usually out of options and has lost hope. My job is to either re-instill hope or enhance the hope, so that the addict can be helped. With intervention, I use both the Johnson model and the ARISE model. With 16 years of experience conducting interventions, I have encountered most things that happen in an intervention, and can prepare the addict's family members and/or friends so they can walk through the intervention process with the least amount of anxiety.
I specialize in interventions, so my ideal client is the family member or friend of an addict. This "concerned other" is usually out of options and has lost hope. My job is to either re-instill hope or enhance the hope, so that the addict can be helped. With intervention, I use both the Johnson model and the ARISE model. With 16 years of experience conducting interventions, I have encountered most things that happen in an intervention, and can prepare the addict's family members and/or friends so they can walk through the intervention process with the least amount of anxiety.
(503) 379-9435 View (503) 379-9435
Photo of Mary Bogle, Psychologist in Milwaukie, OR
Mary Bogle
Psychologist, PsyD, MPH, BSRN
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Not accepting new clients
I am an evidence-based therapist who incorporates mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy and other strategies to tailor treatment to each of my clients' needs. I will help you understand how to be more present-focused and how to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that may be holding you back.
I am an evidence-based therapist who incorporates mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy and other strategies to tailor treatment to each of my clients' needs. I will help you understand how to be more present-focused and how to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that may be holding you back.
(971) 279-8431 View (971) 279-8431
Photo of Dmitri Dosamantes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Milwaukie, OR
Dmitri Dosamantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222  (Online Only)
I've been in practice for 20+ years and I'm passionate about helping people move forward in their lives. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and goal oriented. Together we can discover how to break your maladaptive patterns, build on your strengths, and begin your journey to heal. In my practice, you will find openness without judgement and an environment where you can heal the wounds that may be causing low self-esteem, relationship issues, problems at work; or depression and anxiety. Together we can create the changes you want in your life.
I've been in practice for 20+ years and I'm passionate about helping people move forward in their lives. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and goal oriented. Together we can discover how to break your maladaptive patterns, build on your strengths, and begin your journey to heal. In my practice, you will find openness without judgement and an environment where you can heal the wounds that may be causing low self-esteem, relationship issues, problems at work; or depression and anxiety. Together we can create the changes you want in your life.
(971) 340-4192 View (971) 340-4192
Photo of Marina Valdez, Psychologist in Milwaukie, OR
Marina Valdez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
*Ofrezco terapia bilingue, en espanol y en ingles.* I offer bilingual therapy, in Spanish and/or English. I believe a sense of trust and safety within the therapeutic relationship is necessary in order to facilitate the change we want to see in our lives. To work towards this goal in my therapeutic relationships, I work from a feminist multicultural framework. I believe the client is the expert on their own experiences. I use collaborative, relational, and strength-based therapy to facilitate a genuine and honest therapeutic relationship that can promote insight and adaptive change.
*Ofrezco terapia bilingue, en espanol y en ingles.* I offer bilingual therapy, in Spanish and/or English. I believe a sense of trust and safety within the therapeutic relationship is necessary in order to facilitate the change we want to see in our lives. To work towards this goal in my therapeutic relationships, I work from a feminist multicultural framework. I believe the client is the expert on their own experiences. I use collaborative, relational, and strength-based therapy to facilitate a genuine and honest therapeutic relationship that can promote insight and adaptive change.
(971) 701-2403 View (971) 701-2403
Photo of Whitney Dudley, LPC Intern in Milwaukie, OR
Whitney Dudley
LPC Intern, QMHP
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Using a client centered focus my desire is to provide you with a safe and welcoming space for you to work through your identified issues and foster an environment that utilizes your strengths and creates individual growth. Much of my career focus has been with adults that have severe and persistent mental illness that intersect with the justice system. I primarily worked with those transitioning out of the correctional setting and those still incarcerated. I have a strong belief in restorative justice offering compassion to both victims and survivors. I believe strongly in a mindful approach to our mental health.
Using a client centered focus my desire is to provide you with a safe and welcoming space for you to work through your identified issues and foster an environment that utilizes your strengths and creates individual growth. Much of my career focus has been with adults that have severe and persistent mental illness that intersect with the justice system. I primarily worked with those transitioning out of the correctional setting and those still incarcerated. I have a strong belief in restorative justice offering compassion to both victims and survivors. I believe strongly in a mindful approach to our mental health.
(503) 647-6867 View (503) 647-6867
Photo of Jeremy Richardson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukie, OR
Jeremy Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with one or many aspects of life. I enjoy being able to help people struggle through some of the big questions of life, or puzzle through how to make improvements.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with one or many aspects of life. I enjoy being able to help people struggle through some of the big questions of life, or puzzle through how to make improvements.
(971) 606-4187 x32 View (971) 606-4187 x32
Photo of Kelsey Papadatos, Pre-Licensed Professional in Milwaukie, OR
Kelsey Papadatos
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Are you struggling? Experienced Trauma? Wondering why this is still happening? Maybe I can help! With the belief that every person enters therapy with strengths, we will work together to build upon that foundation and learn about strengths that you might not be aware of just yet. I understand how difficult it is to feel comfortable with a new therapist while discussing past traumatic experiences, so I place a lot of importance in building up a rapport and therapeutic alliance.
Are you struggling? Experienced Trauma? Wondering why this is still happening? Maybe I can help! With the belief that every person enters therapy with strengths, we will work together to build upon that foundation and learn about strengths that you might not be aware of just yet. I understand how difficult it is to feel comfortable with a new therapist while discussing past traumatic experiences, so I place a lot of importance in building up a rapport and therapeutic alliance.
(503) 486-4399 View (503) 486-4399
Photo of Olivia Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Milwaukie, OR
Olivia Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and young adults ages 7-25. I have experience working with individuals from many diverse backgrounds, skill sets, needs, and honor all aspects of the unique person that you are. I believe in empowering clients to take an active role in the therapy process. I view counseling as a collaborative effort where we work together as a team to find interventions, treatment methods, and goals that best suit you and your current needs. Every stage of life presents us with its own unique challenges. No person, no matter their age should be defined by their current circumstances.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and young adults ages 7-25. I have experience working with individuals from many diverse backgrounds, skill sets, needs, and honor all aspects of the unique person that you are. I believe in empowering clients to take an active role in the therapy process. I view counseling as a collaborative effort where we work together as a team to find interventions, treatment methods, and goals that best suit you and your current needs. Every stage of life presents us with its own unique challenges. No person, no matter their age should be defined by their current circumstances.
(541) 900-4285 View (541) 900-4285
Photo of Sam Zwerling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Milwaukie, OR
Sam Zwerling
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA, QMHP, CADC ll
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Whether it is issues with mental health, substance use, trauma, anger, relationships, families, anxiety, depression, stress, etc. I believe that the path to recovery is only a perspective change away. Through a compassionate and person-centered approach to counseling, I can help guide you to better understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and help you to live to your fullest potential. As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC) I have worked with so many people in the process of living a life of wellness.
Whether it is issues with mental health, substance use, trauma, anger, relationships, families, anxiety, depression, stress, etc. I believe that the path to recovery is only a perspective change away. Through a compassionate and person-centered approach to counseling, I can help guide you to better understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and help you to live to your fullest potential. As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC) I have worked with so many people in the process of living a life of wellness.
(503) 217-6760 View (503) 217-6760
Photo of Robyn Urbach, Clinical Social Work Associate in Milwaukie, OR
Robyn Urbach
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
I’m glad you are here! I acknowledge this can be a difficult step, and it takes incredible strength to begin this journey; I am honored to be a part of it. I prioritize your strengths in my approach to therapy and will build upon those in our work together. Understanding our personal growth areas, and how we can build together as a team is my goal.
I’m glad you are here! I acknowledge this can be a difficult step, and it takes incredible strength to begin this journey; I am honored to be a part of it. I prioritize your strengths in my approach to therapy and will build upon those in our work together. Understanding our personal growth areas, and how we can build together as a team is my goal.
(503) 868-4949 View (503) 868-4949
Photo of Elizabeth Sanders, Professional Counselor Associate in Milwaukie, OR
Elizabeth Sanders
Professional Counselor Associate, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Hi! In my life I have learned the value of a good counselor, someone who is there to listen, provide perspective, and challenge assumptions. A person that is there to help you tell your story, find meaning, and identify strengths. Counseling is not always an easy thing for people to engage in and can seem intimidating and scary at times. It may lead you to explore things that are painful and frightening, and may bring up emotions that many of us are hesitant to explore. As I work with people I strive to make a space where these feelings, experiences, and thoughts can be freely expressed and explored in a way that promotes healing.
Hi! In my life I have learned the value of a good counselor, someone who is there to listen, provide perspective, and challenge assumptions. A person that is there to help you tell your story, find meaning, and identify strengths. Counseling is not always an easy thing for people to engage in and can seem intimidating and scary at times. It may lead you to explore things that are painful and frightening, and may bring up emotions that many of us are hesitant to explore. As I work with people I strive to make a space where these feelings, experiences, and thoughts can be freely expressed and explored in a way that promotes healing.
(503) 738-1302 View (503) 738-1302
Photo of Aubrey Harrington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukie, OR
Aubrey Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Not accepting new clients
My waitlist is currently closed. The idea of starting therapy can be intimidating. As a society, we have been conditioned to believe that therapy is only for those who have “something wrong” with them. For many, that belief can lead to carrying feelings of shame, low self-worth, and frustration that they can’t move past it. As a therapist, it is my goal to help you understand that there is absolutely nothing wrong with you. Rather, it is my hope that together, we can shift from asking “what’s wrong with me?” to “what happened to me?”
My waitlist is currently closed. The idea of starting therapy can be intimidating. As a society, we have been conditioned to believe that therapy is only for those who have “something wrong” with them. For many, that belief can lead to carrying feelings of shame, low self-worth, and frustration that they can’t move past it. As a therapist, it is my goal to help you understand that there is absolutely nothing wrong with you. Rather, it is my hope that together, we can shift from asking “what’s wrong with me?” to “what happened to me?”
(503) 406-9936 View (503) 406-9936
Photo of Trellis Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukie, OR
Trellis Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
We are currently taking new clients. "Why am I not over this already?" If you find yourself asking that, maybe we can help. We work with people struggling due to past experiences or recent trauma. Whether the impact those experiences have on them is big or small, we believe that healing and hope occur within a healthy therapeutic relationship. We've been privileged to help hundreds of struggling individuals.
We are currently taking new clients. "Why am I not over this already?" If you find yourself asking that, maybe we can help. We work with people struggling due to past experiences or recent trauma. Whether the impact those experiences have on them is big or small, we believe that healing and hope occur within a healthy therapeutic relationship. We've been privileged to help hundreds of struggling individuals.
(503) 360-1631 View (503) 360-1631

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Milwaukie, OR

100+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Milwaukie, OR who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
81% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
70% Relationship Issues
69% Self Esteem
67% Grief
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

56% PacificSource
48% Aetna
46% Oregon Health Plan (OHP)

How Therapists in Milwaukie, OR see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
29% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Milwaukie?

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.