Therapists in Hoffman Estates, IL

Photo of Alyssa Abbate, Psychologist in Hoffman Estates, IL
Alyssa Abbate
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Alyssa Abbate is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in therapy and assessment of children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. Her clinical interests include depression, anxiety, child and adolescent behavioral challenges, parent-child conflicts, parent-teen communication difficulties, learning disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), body image, eating disorders, life transitions, trauma, relationship difficulties, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Dr. Alyssa Abbate is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in therapy and assessment of children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. Her clinical interests include depression, anxiety, child and adolescent behavioral challenges, parent-child conflicts, parent-teen communication difficulties, learning disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), body image, eating disorders, life transitions, trauma, relationship difficulties, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(847) 994-4745 View (847) 994-4745
Photo of Pamela Rak Dcsw Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hoffman Estates, IL
Pamela Rak Dcsw Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Expertise in healing unresolved psychological and emotional trauma, couples & marriage coaching and counseling, therapy with adults in a relationship with a characterologically disordered person. Adult mental/behavioral health depression & anxiety counseling, parenting coordination, reunification, divorce coaching. As a competent, caring, professional I lend meaningful insights while teaching coping techniques & strategies. Credentialed at the highest state and national levels with more than 32 years' experience. I welcome the opportunity to help you identify problem areas & move your life forward in a healthy and intentional way.
Expertise in healing unresolved psychological and emotional trauma, couples & marriage coaching and counseling, therapy with adults in a relationship with a characterologically disordered person. Adult mental/behavioral health depression & anxiety counseling, parenting coordination, reunification, divorce coaching. As a competent, caring, professional I lend meaningful insights while teaching coping techniques & strategies. Credentialed at the highest state and national levels with more than 32 years' experience. I welcome the opportunity to help you identify problem areas & move your life forward in a healthy and intentional way.
(224) 478-1531 View (224) 478-1531
Photo of Amy Marshman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hoffman Estates, IL
Amy Marshman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Amy Marshman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 18 years of experience. She is passionate about all aspects of her clinical work with children, families, adolescents, and adults. In her work, Amy works closely with her clients to work together to address challenges and move to the path of healing and change they desire.
Amy Marshman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 18 years of experience. She is passionate about all aspects of her clinical work with children, families, adolescents, and adults. In her work, Amy works closely with her clients to work together to address challenges and move to the path of healing and change they desire.
(708) 729-6743 View (708) 729-6743
Photo of Amanda L. Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hoffman Estates, IL
Amanda L. Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling exhausted with always trying to hold it together? Life feels hard sometimes. The idea of therapy can be a bit scary, but its part of the journey towards feeling better and supporting you and your family differently. Balancing schedules, taking care of everyone but yourself, I get it! Sometimes there can be a lot to talk about, much to unpack. Perhaps you are experiencing parenting challenges, relationship difficulties or in the middle of a life transition. Finding a comforting space to talk about all the emotions can be tremendously beneficial.
Are you feeling exhausted with always trying to hold it together? Life feels hard sometimes. The idea of therapy can be a bit scary, but its part of the journey towards feeling better and supporting you and your family differently. Balancing schedules, taking care of everyone but yourself, I get it! Sometimes there can be a lot to talk about, much to unpack. Perhaps you are experiencing parenting challenges, relationship difficulties or in the middle of a life transition. Finding a comforting space to talk about all the emotions can be tremendously beneficial.
(224) 218-5136 View (224) 218-5136
Photo of Monica Van Duyne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Monica Van Duyne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
If you are feeling stuck in the past, lost, hopeless, and disconnected from yourself and the life you want, it can feel impossible to get "unstuck". Past traumas and current external systems can make it feel like things will never get better. Oftentimes, you might wonder if you even deserve to feel better. It's important in these moments to notice the parts of you that do want to feel better, to heal, and to move towards your ideal life - whatever that may look like.
If you are feeling stuck in the past, lost, hopeless, and disconnected from yourself and the life you want, it can feel impossible to get "unstuck". Past traumas and current external systems can make it feel like things will never get better. Oftentimes, you might wonder if you even deserve to feel better. It's important in these moments to notice the parts of you that do want to feel better, to heal, and to move towards your ideal life - whatever that may look like.
(847) 281-5870 View (847) 281-5870
Photo of Mothergood Health, Psychologist in Hoffman Estates, IL
Mothergood Health
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
Mothergood Health specializes in helping new and expectant moms to overcome the challenges that can come with becoming a new parent. We understand that the transition to motherhood can be an incredibly challenging and overwhelming time That's why we're here to provide expert care and support for those struggling with postpartum depression and perinatal anxiety.
Mothergood Health specializes in helping new and expectant moms to overcome the challenges that can come with becoming a new parent. We understand that the transition to motherhood can be an incredibly challenging and overwhelming time That's why we're here to provide expert care and support for those struggling with postpartum depression and perinatal anxiety.
(224) 507-1833 View (224) 507-1833
Photo of Theresa Ewing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hoffman Estates, IL
Theresa Ewing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
When in the midst of the storm; anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting struggles, perinatal mental health, or medical concerns, connecting with a counselor could be the tool that you need to find hope and skills to get through it. My passion is to get to know you, your thoughts and stress in order to partner with you so you are not alone and establish coping skills, goals and work toward what you long for.
When in the midst of the storm; anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting struggles, perinatal mental health, or medical concerns, connecting with a counselor could be the tool that you need to find hope and skills to get through it. My passion is to get to know you, your thoughts and stress in order to partner with you so you are not alone and establish coping skills, goals and work toward what you long for.
(815) 355-6490 View (815) 355-6490
Photo of Julie Faulkner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hoffman Estates, IL
Julie Faulkner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
I have over 20 years of experience and have worked in a wide variety of treatment settings, including in-home counseling, residential treatment, and outpatient community mental health centers as well as private practice. I help clients develop individual strategies and goals to move forward through obstacles such as anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, adjustment issues, and difficulty connecting to a partner or family member to improve the functioning and relationships in their lives.
I have over 20 years of experience and have worked in a wide variety of treatment settings, including in-home counseling, residential treatment, and outpatient community mental health centers as well as private practice. I help clients develop individual strategies and goals to move forward through obstacles such as anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, adjustment issues, and difficulty connecting to a partner or family member to improve the functioning and relationships in their lives.
(847) 796-6189 x116 View (847) 796-6189 x116
Photo of CST Counseling & Consultation PLLC, Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
CST Counseling & Consultation PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Hey there! My name is Claudia and I'm the owner of CST Counseling & Consultation. I’m happy you’re here and made the decision to seek counseling! I know it can be an intimidating one. I am excited to work with clients who are eager to learn more about themselves through a multifaceted life lens. Through our sessions we will learn to understand our barriers and how to navigate them. And laughter; humor is key! - Additionally, we have several therapists at our practice each with their own specialties including eating disorders, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders, adolescent treatment, substance use, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, etc..
Hey there! My name is Claudia and I'm the owner of CST Counseling & Consultation. I’m happy you’re here and made the decision to seek counseling! I know it can be an intimidating one. I am excited to work with clients who are eager to learn more about themselves through a multifaceted life lens. Through our sessions we will learn to understand our barriers and how to navigate them. And laughter; humor is key! - Additionally, we have several therapists at our practice each with their own specialties including eating disorders, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders, adolescent treatment, substance use, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, etc..
(847) 232-6137 View (847) 232-6137
Photo of Christina Geiselhart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hoffman Estates, IL
Christina Geiselhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169  (Online Only)
Dr. Geiselhart is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. She is passionate about helping people learn how their brain works and what changes they can make to find empowerment and control over their lives. She worked extensively with individuals who experience complex trauma as well as grief and end of life care. When not working directly with clients, she teaches at a variety of universities to help mentor the next generation of social workers.
Dr. Geiselhart is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience in the medical and mental health field. She is passionate about helping people learn how their brain works and what changes they can make to find empowerment and control over their lives. She worked extensively with individuals who experience complex trauma as well as grief and end of life care. When not working directly with clients, she teaches at a variety of universities to help mentor the next generation of social workers.
(847) 999-7621 View (847) 999-7621
Photo of Kay Nohelty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Kay Nohelty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
If you have found yourself feeling disconnected from yourself, those around you, or the parts of your world that used to bring you joy, it can feel hopeless when that connection doesn't return on it's own. Maybe you've just experienced trauma, feel stuck in your life, burnt out, or lost. You're not alone; finding the right therapist to support you in your journey back to your authentic self is the first step.
If you have found yourself feeling disconnected from yourself, those around you, or the parts of your world that used to bring you joy, it can feel hopeless when that connection doesn't return on it's own. Maybe you've just experienced trauma, feel stuck in your life, burnt out, or lost. You're not alone; finding the right therapist to support you in your journey back to your authentic self is the first step.
(708) 726-0259 View (708) 726-0259
Photo of Bradley Cramer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Bradley Cramer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, CCMHC, NCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Not accepting new clients
Anxiety is a universal human experience. It can help protect us from harm or motivate our best performance. It can also feel unmanageable at times and start to interfere with our ability to function. Panic attacks, obsessions, compulsions, endless worry, and traumatic memories can leave a person feeling helpless. My role is to help you discover your own ability to live your life in a meaningful way despite what obstacles you may be facing. I can help you find a healthier way to overcome worries, panic, and trauma.
Anxiety is a universal human experience. It can help protect us from harm or motivate our best performance. It can also feel unmanageable at times and start to interfere with our ability to function. Panic attacks, obsessions, compulsions, endless worry, and traumatic memories can leave a person feeling helpless. My role is to help you discover your own ability to live your life in a meaningful way despite what obstacles you may be facing. I can help you find a healthier way to overcome worries, panic, and trauma.
(224) 478-0443 View (224) 478-0443
Photo of Tracy Olender, Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Tracy Olender
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
I believe that everyone is capable of feeling better and overcoming their struggles as long as they find a positive mindset and believe in themselves. I provide an environment where you are free to explore your concerns without any judgement. It is important for me to develop a good rapport with my clients because it is the foundation for successful treatment. Developing a workable treatment plan with my clients helps guide the focus of our sessions and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
I believe that everyone is capable of feeling better and overcoming their struggles as long as they find a positive mindset and believe in themselves. I provide an environment where you are free to explore your concerns without any judgement. It is important for me to develop a good rapport with my clients because it is the foundation for successful treatment. Developing a workable treatment plan with my clients helps guide the focus of our sessions and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
(872) 241-1095 View (872) 241-1095
Photo of Jeff Kalas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Jeff Kalas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 17 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals overcome challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, and other mental health concerns. Through a cognitive-behavioral approach, I utilize evidence-based techniques to help my clients identify and modify negative thinking patterns and behaviors that may be impacting their quality of life. My goal as a counselor is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 17 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals overcome challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, and other mental health concerns. Through a cognitive-behavioral approach, I utilize evidence-based techniques to help my clients identify and modify negative thinking patterns and behaviors that may be impacting their quality of life. My goal as a counselor is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(847) 503-9642 View (847) 503-9642
Photo of Kate Geiser, Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Kate Geiser
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169  (Online Only)
I believe that people have primary accountability for their own lives, and that within each of us is the power and capacity to make choices that will lead to happiness and fulfillment. However, sometimes there are obstacles that must first be overcome (for example, anger, depression, trauma, anxiety, sexual identity issues, relationship problems, etc.) to be able to make healthy choices. I assist my clients along their journey of self-discovery as they learn how to empower themselves to overcome their obstacles. They then are able to make choices that will lead them to the life they want to have.
I believe that people have primary accountability for their own lives, and that within each of us is the power and capacity to make choices that will lead to happiness and fulfillment. However, sometimes there are obstacles that must first be overcome (for example, anger, depression, trauma, anxiety, sexual identity issues, relationship problems, etc.) to be able to make healthy choices. I assist my clients along their journey of self-discovery as they learn how to empower themselves to overcome their obstacles. They then are able to make choices that will lead them to the life they want to have.
(224) 268-1651 View (224) 268-1651
Photo of Khoa Ngo, Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Khoa Ngo
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
It feels like people are always judging you or maybe you judge yourself. Either way, most of the time it feels like you could be doing something better or that you are not enough. Most adults come to therapy with low self-esteem and a combination of depression and anxiety. I create a space where adults can feel safe at opening up freely about difficult emotions, negative thoughts, and problematic behaviors. Together, we explore what is standing in the way of you meeting your goals, why you are doing what you’re doing, and then try different ways to address your problems.
It feels like people are always judging you or maybe you judge yourself. Either way, most of the time it feels like you could be doing something better or that you are not enough. Most adults come to therapy with low self-esteem and a combination of depression and anxiety. I create a space where adults can feel safe at opening up freely about difficult emotions, negative thoughts, and problematic behaviors. Together, we explore what is standing in the way of you meeting your goals, why you are doing what you’re doing, and then try different ways to address your problems.
(847) 443-1409 View (847) 443-1409
Photo of Erin Taylor, Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Erin Taylor
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169  (Online Only)
Erin Taylor is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois who has 16 years of experience partnering with adults and children seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, family and women’s issues, trauma, grief, and relationship issues both in Illinois and Arizona. Erin completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University and received her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Argosy University in Illinois, and Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University in Arizona.
Erin Taylor is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois who has 16 years of experience partnering with adults and children seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, family and women’s issues, trauma, grief, and relationship issues both in Illinois and Arizona. Erin completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University and received her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Argosy University in Illinois, and Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University in Arizona.
(847) 499-1664 View (847) 499-1664
Photo of Steve Eisenberg, Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Steve Eisenberg
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Easy to talk to, I've been providing sex therapy for over thirty-five years, having extensive training from the Loyola Univ. Med. School, Sexual Dysfunction Clinic. Occasionally, I work with a co-therapist, with similar training & experience, my wife of many years. Together, we are an extremely dynamic & effective team. I have trained graduate students in sex therapy for over twenty years & have a long standing commitment to this area of counseling & therapy. For more information, please see our website: http://www.EisenbergCounseling.com.
Easy to talk to, I've been providing sex therapy for over thirty-five years, having extensive training from the Loyola Univ. Med. School, Sexual Dysfunction Clinic. Occasionally, I work with a co-therapist, with similar training & experience, my wife of many years. Together, we are an extremely dynamic & effective team. I have trained graduate students in sex therapy for over twenty years & have a long standing commitment to this area of counseling & therapy. For more information, please see our website: http://www.EisenbergCounseling.com.
(847) 885-7790 View (847) 885-7790
Photo of Phet Coggin, Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Phet Coggin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
I specialize in providing individual counseling for adults, adolescents and their families. My approach is client-centered and individualized to meet my client's current needs. My goal is to assist clients to reach their potential well being through education, teaching, and modeling skills, while assisting to identify barriers that prevent change. My therapy approach is guided by dialectical-behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, and gender identity support.
I specialize in providing individual counseling for adults, adolescents and their families. My approach is client-centered and individualized to meet my client's current needs. My goal is to assist clients to reach their potential well being through education, teaching, and modeling skills, while assisting to identify barriers that prevent change. My therapy approach is guided by dialectical-behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, and gender identity support.
(224) 699-0196 View (224) 699-0196
Photo of Rachela Ranaldi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hoffman Estates, IL
Rachela Ranaldi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Therapy can often feel intimidating & taking the first step to growth takes a lot of strength. My goal is to guide you through the process of therapy with support, empathy, & the occasional cheesy joke. I create treatment plans that are flexible & individualized & allow for us to collaborate as a team to meet all of your therapeutic needs. I hope to develop a therapeutic relationship that allows you to feel comfortable delving into difficult topics while also allowing you the time & space to talk about the nuances of your day. I strive to help you develop the tools to combat those personal struggles & advocate for what you deserve.
Therapy can often feel intimidating & taking the first step to growth takes a lot of strength. My goal is to guide you through the process of therapy with support, empathy, & the occasional cheesy joke. I create treatment plans that are flexible & individualized & allow for us to collaborate as a team to meet all of your therapeutic needs. I hope to develop a therapeutic relationship that allows you to feel comfortable delving into difficult topics while also allowing you the time & space to talk about the nuances of your day. I strive to help you develop the tools to combat those personal struggles & advocate for what you deserve.
(847) 851-4129 View (847) 851-4129

See more therapy options for Hoffman Estates

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hoffman Estates, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Hoffman Estates, IL who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Relationship Issues
67% Coping Skills
67% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Hoffman Estates, IL see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hoffman Estates?

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.