Therapists in Westerville, OH

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 Katherine McCullough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Katherine McCullough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Katie McCullough is a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio, Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Education from The Ohio State University in May 2021. She is currently a graduate student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program and plans to graduate with her MSW in May 2024. Katie is currently interested in utilizing holistic, mind-body-spirit, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy frameworks to treat a wide range of client populations.
Katie McCullough is a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio, Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Education from The Ohio State University in May 2021. She is currently a graduate student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program and plans to graduate with her MSW in May 2024. Katie is currently interested in utilizing holistic, mind-body-spirit, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy frameworks to treat a wide range of client populations.
(614) 968-8924 View (614) 968-8924
Photo of Kerry Schantz-Held, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Kerry Schantz-Held
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I believe that therapy is first and foremost a relationship. I strive to create an environment that fosters this connection, acceptance, and growth. My interpersonal style is validating and warm, while authentically leaning into emotion and non-judgement. It is my goal that each client feels safe and supported to explore the concerns which brought them in, while also embracing the challenge of trying something new. While initiating therapy is intimidating, I hope that by fostering a strength-based, brave space, I can help you to work toward healing, growth, and increased fulfillment in your life.
I believe that therapy is first and foremost a relationship. I strive to create an environment that fosters this connection, acceptance, and growth. My interpersonal style is validating and warm, while authentically leaning into emotion and non-judgement. It is my goal that each client feels safe and supported to explore the concerns which brought them in, while also embracing the challenge of trying something new. While initiating therapy is intimidating, I hope that by fostering a strength-based, brave space, I can help you to work toward healing, growth, and increased fulfillment in your life.
(380) 207-9730 View (380) 207-9730
Photo of Melanie Thornburgh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Melanie Thornburgh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed or just feeling stuck, you do not have to go through it alone. I can help you overcome challenges, fears and negative thought patterns preventing you from becoming your best self. I have 14 years experience working with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Whether you are feeling anxious, depressed or just feeling stuck, you do not have to go through it alone. I can help you overcome challenges, fears and negative thought patterns preventing you from becoming your best self. I have 14 years experience working with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse and domestic violence.
(614) 350-3166 View (614) 350-3166
Photo of Emily Combes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Emily Combes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I believe great strides can be made through a strong therapeutic relationship. When you walk into my office you will be stepping into a judgement free space and met with compassion and support. Come as you are with everything you have. I have a passion for working with women throughout their journey to motherhood and parenting. Motherhood has been one of the most dramatic life transitions in my life. Whether you are trying to conceive, anxious during pregnancy, or walking through the throes of the fourth trimester (and beyond) I will walk by your side and help you to find who you are in this new stage of life.
I believe great strides can be made through a strong therapeutic relationship. When you walk into my office you will be stepping into a judgement free space and met with compassion and support. Come as you are with everything you have. I have a passion for working with women throughout their journey to motherhood and parenting. Motherhood has been one of the most dramatic life transitions in my life. Whether you are trying to conceive, anxious during pregnancy, or walking through the throes of the fourth trimester (and beyond) I will walk by your side and help you to find who you are in this new stage of life.
(380) 201-9689 View (380) 201-9689
Photo of Sophie Hans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
(380) 201-9945 View (380) 201-9945
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 De’Aja Hines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
De’Aja Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Deaja Hines, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
(614) 683-4803 View (614) 683-4803
Photo of Michael D Perciful, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Michael D Perciful
Counselor, MACM, LPCC-S, LCDCIII, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I don't believe anyone has to be defined by their past. It is often the case that life events are the very things that prevent people from living the life they both want and deserve. I have over 14 years experience working with people to assist them in overcoming substance use problems and ten plus years working with other mental health related problems. I would be honored to assist you in your journey to freedom from whatever it is that is holding you back.
I don't believe anyone has to be defined by their past. It is often the case that life events are the very things that prevent people from living the life they both want and deserve. I have over 14 years experience working with people to assist them in overcoming substance use problems and ten plus years working with other mental health related problems. I would be honored to assist you in your journey to freedom from whatever it is that is holding you back.
(614) 745-8531 View (614) 745-8531
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
Photo of Stephanie Ann Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Stephanie Ann Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is someone who wants support in improving their mental health, navigating life's challenges, and building better relationships and self-esteem.
My ideal client is someone who wants support in improving their mental health, navigating life's challenges, and building better relationships and self-esteem.
(614) 810-4987 View (614) 810-4987
Photo of Julia Green, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Julia Green
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
You may be feeling lonely, overwhelmed, or scared for yourself, your marriage, or your family. It may seem like your life is falling apart or you or your loved ones are constantly walking on egg shells. Its getting more difficult to keep it together for appearances or maybe its already past that point. You've tried just about everything you can think of to make your situation better but nothing has worked and things are getting worse. You may be hanging on by a thread, but you are not ready to give up hope.
You may be feeling lonely, overwhelmed, or scared for yourself, your marriage, or your family. It may seem like your life is falling apart or you or your loved ones are constantly walking on egg shells. Its getting more difficult to keep it together for appearances or maybe its already past that point. You've tried just about everything you can think of to make your situation better but nothing has worked and things are getting worse. You may be hanging on by a thread, but you are not ready to give up hope.
(380) 207-1308 View (380) 207-1308
Photo of Virginia (Ginny) Short, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Virginia (Ginny) Short
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Virginia Short is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 7 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio. She has more than 7 years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient and outpatient levels of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Virginia has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
Virginia Short is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 7 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio. She has more than 7 years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient and outpatient levels of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Virginia has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
(380) 204-5631 View (380) 204-5631
Photo of Anita Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Anita Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Anita Clark is a licensed independent social worker with an undergraduate and master’s degree from The Ohio State University, as well as a certificate in working with Veterans. As a mental health therapist, Anita strives to break down treatment barriers and provide counseling in which patients feel seen, heard, and valued. She believes that change is hard but through developing tools and coping skills she can assist in empowering her clients to improve their mental health and over all well-being.
Anita Clark is a licensed independent social worker with an undergraduate and master’s degree from The Ohio State University, as well as a certificate in working with Veterans. As a mental health therapist, Anita strives to break down treatment barriers and provide counseling in which patients feel seen, heard, and valued. She believes that change is hard but through developing tools and coping skills she can assist in empowering her clients to improve their mental health and over all well-being.
(614) 665-0752 View (614) 665-0752
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 Julia Dee in Westerville, OH
Julia Dee
LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and South Carolina with over 20 years of practical therapeutic experience and education in the mental health field. I specialize in women's issues, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, and behavior patterns in your adult life that stem from stressors, abuse, neglect, and trauma experienced in childhood. I utilize a mix of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Strength-Based, Attachment-based, and Psychodynamic therapy. I believe we are all works in progress, and balance in life is essential to improving one's life.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and South Carolina with over 20 years of practical therapeutic experience and education in the mental health field. I specialize in women's issues, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, and behavior patterns in your adult life that stem from stressors, abuse, neglect, and trauma experienced in childhood. I utilize a mix of modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, Strength-Based, Attachment-based, and Psychodynamic therapy. I believe we are all works in progress, and balance in life is essential to improving one's life.
(937) 858-6433 View (937) 858-6433
Photo of Victoria Borsukevich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Victoria Borsukevich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
I believe in an active and client-led approach to therapy, where I can help you build the tools and strengths within yourself to reach your goals. I feel that effective treatment begins with a genuine connection between us and I will strive to make you feel heard and understood. In my practice, I utilize a personalized approach to each client's mental health needs and goals.
I believe in an active and client-led approach to therapy, where I can help you build the tools and strengths within yourself to reach your goals. I feel that effective treatment begins with a genuine connection between us and I will strive to make you feel heard and understood. In my practice, I utilize a personalized approach to each client's mental health needs and goals.
(614) 683-2210 View (614) 683-2210
Photo of Vincent Colecchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Vincent Colecchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Vinnie Colecchi, MSW, LSW is a licensed social worker who has been practicing therapy and substance use disorder counseling since 2016. He graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree of science in Addictions Counseling, and later in 2021 from The Ohio State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Vinnie believes in an approach to therapy which he characterizes as learning the skills to live a values-oriented life while confronting and making space for difficult emotions and life circumstances. Vinnie specializes in working with anxiety, addictions, and depressive disorders.
Vinnie Colecchi, MSW, LSW is a licensed social worker who has been practicing therapy and substance use disorder counseling since 2016. He graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016 with a bachelor's degree of science in Addictions Counseling, and later in 2021 from The Ohio State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Vinnie believes in an approach to therapy which he characterizes as learning the skills to live a values-oriented life while confronting and making space for difficult emotions and life circumstances. Vinnie specializes in working with anxiety, addictions, and depressive disorders.
(614) 683-4566 View (614) 683-4566
Photo of Allison Fagan, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Allison Fagan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I help people in distressed adult relationships. In a marriage or partnership, we need to know that we can reach our partner and feel connected and open to them, that we can count on our partner to respond to us when we are in need, and that we are special and cherished by our partner. I can help you find your way back to your partner, and restore feelings of safety and connection. In other close adult relationships, such as an adult child and a parent, distress can occur despite a desire by both parties to be closely connected.
I help people in distressed adult relationships. In a marriage or partnership, we need to know that we can reach our partner and feel connected and open to them, that we can count on our partner to respond to us when we are in need, and that we are special and cherished by our partner. I can help you find your way back to your partner, and restore feelings of safety and connection. In other close adult relationships, such as an adult child and a parent, distress can occur despite a desire by both parties to be closely connected.
(614) 957-1280 View (614) 957-1280
Photo of Rachel Keay-McVay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Rachel Keay-McVay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
(380) 333-4253 View (380) 333-4253

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

200+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
68% Self Esteem
66% Grief
64% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
75% Optum
70% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% 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.