Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Jason Stofel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Jason Stofel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
(380) 207-0861 View (380) 207-0861
Photo of Eric C Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Eric C Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
(614) 980-2290 View (614) 980-2290
Photo of Monarch Counseling, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Monarch Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
(614) 918-4935 View (614) 918-4935
Photo of Charlotte Buelow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Charlotte Buelow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Are you feeling lost in a world that used to feel familiar? Do you feel like you are in a fog, going through the motions but not really engaging? Have you felt overwhelmed by how much there is to do that you haven't been able to let yourself grieve? Some days you may feel like you can tackle that to-do list, and other days the reality hits you like a sucker-punch to the gut. Finding your new normal is a hard and often lonely journey.
Are you feeling lost in a world that used to feel familiar? Do you feel like you are in a fog, going through the motions but not really engaging? Have you felt overwhelmed by how much there is to do that you haven't been able to let yourself grieve? Some days you may feel like you can tackle that to-do list, and other days the reality hits you like a sucker-punch to the gut. Finding your new normal is a hard and often lonely journey.
(380) 333-9913 View (380) 333-9913
Photo of Patricia Ringold, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Patricia Ringold
Counselor, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
As a clinician, I highly respect the courage and honesty that my clients bring to the counseling relationship. It is an honor for me to engage with others in this work of expanding into the person we wish to be. In my years of practice, I have consistently witnessed our capacity to progress and grow. While I acknowledge that we each do the best our situation, I welcome people to my office so that they can transcend their current experience and have a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. Relationships are a key to healing. When we feel authentic safety within our relationships, we create a framework in which we can move forward.
As a clinician, I highly respect the courage and honesty that my clients bring to the counseling relationship. It is an honor for me to engage with others in this work of expanding into the person we wish to be. In my years of practice, I have consistently witnessed our capacity to progress and grow. While I acknowledge that we each do the best our situation, I welcome people to my office so that they can transcend their current experience and have a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. Relationships are a key to healing. When we feel authentic safety within our relationships, we create a framework in which we can move forward.
(614) 957-2845 View (614) 957-2845
Photo of Rylee Doherty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Rylee Doherty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Rylee is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Rylee graduated in 2022, with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Capella University. Before attending graduate school, Rylee graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology from the Ohio State University. While also focusing on her clinical passions, Rylee serves her time as a federal employee managing security related incidents for the state of Ohio.
Rylee is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Rylee graduated in 2022, with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Capella University. Before attending graduate school, Rylee graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology from the Ohio State University. While also focusing on her clinical passions, Rylee serves her time as a federal employee managing security related incidents for the state of Ohio.
(614) 666-6709 View (614) 666-6709
Photo of Holly Mundon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Holly Mundon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LISWS , CCTP , CDCA
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you having struggles in your job or relationship? Have you been diagnosed with a mental illness and need coping skills as you learn to manage all that it entails? Do you need education, support, and encouragement? I work with grief/loss, trauma, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills & boundaries, relationship and job stressors, life transitions, and general support. I am passionate about helping those who are 'helping professions' and work with health professionals and first responders dealing with secondary trauma. We will work together to set goals for taking the next steps to feel better.
Are you having struggles in your job or relationship? Have you been diagnosed with a mental illness and need coping skills as you learn to manage all that it entails? Do you need education, support, and encouragement? I work with grief/loss, trauma, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills & boundaries, relationship and job stressors, life transitions, and general support. I am passionate about helping those who are 'helping professions' and work with health professionals and first responders dealing with secondary trauma. We will work together to set goals for taking the next steps to feel better.
(380) 333-9203 View (380) 333-9203
Photo of Lisa Walker Bebley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Walker Bebley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I have experience in individual, couple, and group-counseling helping others eliminate negative stressors by replacing them with positive behavioral changes. My expertise is in working with adults who suffer with alcohol & substance abuse, depression, anxiety, coping skills, anger, crisis & stress management, women issues as well as PTSD. Are you having difficulty finding your way? Need a clear path to understanding where you are and what your purpose is? Do you need guidance in discovering the answers to those difficult questions in life? I am here to help you discover your way.
I have experience in individual, couple, and group-counseling helping others eliminate negative stressors by replacing them with positive behavioral changes. My expertise is in working with adults who suffer with alcohol & substance abuse, depression, anxiety, coping skills, anger, crisis & stress management, women issues as well as PTSD. Are you having difficulty finding your way? Need a clear path to understanding where you are and what your purpose is? Do you need guidance in discovering the answers to those difficult questions in life? I am here to help you discover your way.
(614) 972-1334 View (614) 972-1334
Photo of Peggy L Lucas, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Peggy L Lucas
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Peggy L. Lucas, LPCC Peggy L. Lucas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1997. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s in Education (Community and Agency Mental Health) from Ohio University.
Peggy L. Lucas, LPCC Peggy L. Lucas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1997. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s in Education (Community and Agency Mental Health) from Ohio University.
(614) 689-3451 View (614) 689-3451
Photo of Central Ohio Wellness Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Central Ohio Wellness Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
There are countless possibilities that may have lead you here - whether life feels like too much or too little; over or underwhelming; in need of more energy or calm; Maybe you don’t know whether you want to focus on the past or present, beginnings or endings – wherever you find yourself, our space and our providers extend a welcome and secure environment to create, edit and sometimes – rewrite your story.
There are countless possibilities that may have lead you here - whether life feels like too much or too little; over or underwhelming; in need of more energy or calm; Maybe you don’t know whether you want to focus on the past or present, beginnings or endings – wherever you find yourself, our space and our providers extend a welcome and secure environment to create, edit and sometimes – rewrite your story.
(614) 662-1374 View (614) 662-1374
Photo of Jack Hambrick, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Westerville, OH
Jack Hambrick
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-T
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Immediate opening available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
Immediate opening available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
(740) 791-0357 View (740) 791-0357
Photo of Angela S Hackney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Angela S Hackney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you need a safe, non-judgmental environment, where you feel heard? I offer solution-focused, strengths-based interventions to help you move forward. I love to be creative; offering art, music and play to help each client best express themselves. I am an active listener, focused on empowering you. I started my social work journey at an in-patient adult hospital, then moved to intensive community based therapy with children. Now I am accepting new clients for private practice. I welcome any person, any age, who wants to feel more empowered in their lives, to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
Do you need a safe, non-judgmental environment, where you feel heard? I offer solution-focused, strengths-based interventions to help you move forward. I love to be creative; offering art, music and play to help each client best express themselves. I am an active listener, focused on empowering you. I started my social work journey at an in-patient adult hospital, then moved to intensive community based therapy with children. Now I am accepting new clients for private practice. I welcome any person, any age, who wants to feel more empowered in their lives, to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
(380) 201-9214 View (380) 201-9214
Photo of Leah Thornton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Leah Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating various populations such as those with Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Adjustment disorders and other life stressors. I also assist with social and self-esteem issues, phobias, and mild-moderate OCD symptoms. In addition, I have experience with childhood disorders including ADHD, ODD, and high-functioning Autism/Asperger's. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and children, and I use an individualized and collaborative approach to treatment.
I specialize in treating various populations such as those with Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Adjustment disorders and other life stressors. I also assist with social and self-esteem issues, phobias, and mild-moderate OCD symptoms. In addition, I have experience with childhood disorders including ADHD, ODD, and high-functioning Autism/Asperger's. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and children, and I use an individualized and collaborative approach to treatment.
(614) 368-0206 View (614) 368-0206
Photo of Roy McClelland Jr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Roy McClelland Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
(380) 201-9508 View (380) 201-9508
Photo of Alex Childs, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Alex Childs
Counselor, LPCC, MSE
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Seeking out a therapist is a powerful act of self-love and compassion. It’s a commitment to yourself that you're worthy of help and you're ready for change. I work with individuals and couples, from a warm approach of collaboratively changing your life for the better. I specialize in treating areas of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-image, sexuality, gender, identity, and relationships.
Seeking out a therapist is a powerful act of self-love and compassion. It’s a commitment to yourself that you're worthy of help and you're ready for change. I work with individuals and couples, from a warm approach of collaboratively changing your life for the better. I specialize in treating areas of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-image, sexuality, gender, identity, and relationships.
(380) 210-5114 View (380) 210-5114
Photo of Lisa Riddle, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Riddle
Counselor, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
(614) 660-5965 View (614) 660-5965
Photo of Marcie Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Marcie Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Please email for more information or to schedule. Daytime availability Monday-Thursday. We are in a unique time; daily life might seem more challenging. Life brings moments of joy, unknowns, hurt, and disappointment. Perhaps it’s leading to anxiety, feeling overwhelmed with life and changes, worries, sleep issues, depression, or simply - heavy with life. Maybe it’s led to feelings of sadness or wanting a change. Pursuing therapeutic support can be a difficult, yet brave step. It’s beneficial to talk about your struggles, worries, or life changes, to help you through this season.
Please email for more information or to schedule. Daytime availability Monday-Thursday. We are in a unique time; daily life might seem more challenging. Life brings moments of joy, unknowns, hurt, and disappointment. Perhaps it’s leading to anxiety, feeling overwhelmed with life and changes, worries, sleep issues, depression, or simply - heavy with life. Maybe it’s led to feelings of sadness or wanting a change. Pursuing therapeutic support can be a difficult, yet brave step. It’s beneficial to talk about your struggles, worries, or life changes, to help you through this season.
(614) 682-8895 View (614) 682-8895
Photo of Andie Loiseau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Andie Loiseau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is the client that has an idea of what they want in life but is overwhelmed with life stressors such as anxiety and depression. This client needs a safe space to explore their life options and the triggers that are causing negative thinking patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence. This client needs support, encouragement, and a non-judgmental approach to achieve their goals.
My ideal client is the client that has an idea of what they want in life but is overwhelmed with life stressors such as anxiety and depression. This client needs a safe space to explore their life options and the triggers that are causing negative thinking patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence. This client needs support, encouragement, and a non-judgmental approach to achieve their goals.
(380) 333-9277 View (380) 333-9277
Photo of Dani Hanlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dani Hanlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Note: I have an approx. 8 week waitlist for new clients at this time - - - I am here as an unbiased listener. I believe there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to therapy. Every individual is different, including myself, and we all come to therapy with different backgrounds, cultures, world views, and experiences. I use a collaborative and holistic approach with a focus on the mind-body connection, and it is my goal to provide you with intentional, sustainable, and practical tools.
Note: I have an approx. 8 week waitlist for new clients at this time - - - I am here as an unbiased listener. I believe there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to therapy. Every individual is different, including myself, and we all come to therapy with different backgrounds, cultures, world views, and experiences. I use a collaborative and holistic approach with a focus on the mind-body connection, and it is my goal to provide you with intentional, sustainable, and practical tools.
(614) 660-5331 View (614) 660-5331
Photo of Contessa Bush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Contessa Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
(614) 963-3033 View (614) 963-3033

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
66% Grief
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
75% Optum
69% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

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.