Therapists in Westerville, OH

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 Eva Shinka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Eva Shinka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Accepting New Clients: Rapport and a good fit with your therapist are important. I take a holistic approach and start where you want to start. My work centers with teens and adults. My areas of clinical focus include traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, COVID related isolation and stress, depression, grief and loss, managing stress and triggers, parenting, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationships, sleep and trauma, and women's issues. My 20 years of practice includes 12 years with active duty service members, veterans, and their spouses/partners and families.
Accepting New Clients: Rapport and a good fit with your therapist are important. I take a holistic approach and start where you want to start. My work centers with teens and adults. My areas of clinical focus include traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, COVID related isolation and stress, depression, grief and loss, managing stress and triggers, parenting, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relationships, sleep and trauma, and women's issues. My 20 years of practice includes 12 years with active duty service members, veterans, and their spouses/partners and families.
(614) 418-6958 View (614) 418-6958
Photo of Spader Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Spader Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D, COBA
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in Psychological Testing/Evaluation services for children, adolescents, and adults. If you are concerned about learning/school problems (including dyslexia), attention/focus difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, and/or developmental delays in yourself or your child, I welcome you to contact me. I also offer testing for giftedness, school admissions procedures, and County Board of Developmental Disabilities eligibility.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in Psychological Testing/Evaluation services for children, adolescents, and adults. If you are concerned about learning/school problems (including dyslexia), attention/focus difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, and/or developmental delays in yourself or your child, I welcome you to contact me. I also offer testing for giftedness, school admissions procedures, and County Board of Developmental Disabilities eligibility.
(614) 532-4197 View (614) 532-4197
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 Clara Ann Huffman, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Clara Ann Huffman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
Clara Ann Huffman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. To all her future clients, Clara Ann looks forward to offering a safe space - to walk alongside one another through hardship. She uniquely offers enduring hope for change and persistent optimism for a better tomorrow. As a recent academic, Clara Ann further offers emerging techniques, a blend of historic and new theoretical perspectives, and a growing foundation of experience and knowledge. Alongside her passion for mental health and recovery, Clara Ann is an avid lover of nature, an emerging (slow) runner, and an amateur birder.
(614) 881-4729 View (614) 881-4729
Photo of Rebecca Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
(380) 333-6059 View (380) 333-6059
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 Dr. Henry Stringer, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dr. Henry Stringer
Counselor, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
(614) 654-5912 View (614) 654-5912
Photo of Collin Weekes, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Collin Weekes
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
I am a counselor, EMDR Therapist, Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, and a proud graduate of Regent University where I earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. My focus includes depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD and I conduct Immigration Evaluations using an integrative approach to therapy that includes various treatment modalities based on your therapeutic and personal needs. Because of my service in ministry, I am uniquely positioned to offer spiritual counseling from a Christian perspective at your request.
I am a counselor, EMDR Therapist, Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, and a proud graduate of Regent University where I earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. My focus includes depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD and I conduct Immigration Evaluations using an integrative approach to therapy that includes various treatment modalities based on your therapeutic and personal needs. Because of my service in ministry, I am uniquely positioned to offer spiritual counseling from a Christian perspective at your request.
(380) 207-1462 View (380) 207-1462
Photo of Lauren Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Lauren Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I have experience working with all ages, and have specialized in working with teens and young adults for the past 8 years. I help individuals manage depression, anxiety, PTSD and major life adjustments/transitions.
I have experience working with all ages, and have specialized in working with teens and young adults for the past 8 years. I help individuals manage depression, anxiety, PTSD and major life adjustments/transitions.
(614) 482-2566 View (614) 482-2566
Photo of Diana Cofsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(380) 201-9742 View (380) 201-9742
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 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 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 Jill M. McCullough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jill M. McCullough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
(614) 810-8949 View (614) 810-8949
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 Elise Bailey, Social Worker Trainee in Westerville, OH
Elise Bailey
Social Worker Trainee, MFT
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Elise Bailey 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 and Criminology with minors in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and History from The Ohio State University in Spring 2022. She is currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work program. She is interested in working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and anger management.
Elise Bailey 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 and Criminology with minors in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and History from The Ohio State University in Spring 2022. She is currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work program. She is interested in working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and anger management.
(614) 665-0533 View (614) 665-0533
Photo of Whitney Quinn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Whitney Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Hi! I would be delighted to work with you on your mental health goals. I will take the time to get to know you well and understand what contributes to the patterns that may keep you stuck. I bring warmth to my clinical work, while holding hope and commitment to change for my clients. I view therapy as a meaningful collaborative process in which my curiosity helps me unlock new potential and internal wisdom from my clients, supporting them in finding relief.
Hi! I would be delighted to work with you on your mental health goals. I will take the time to get to know you well and understand what contributes to the patterns that may keep you stuck. I bring warmth to my clinical work, while holding hope and commitment to change for my clients. I view therapy as a meaningful collaborative process in which my curiosity helps me unlock new potential and internal wisdom from my clients, supporting them in finding relief.
(614) 762-9791 View (614) 762-9791
Photo of Parker L. Huston, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Parker L. Huston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I have been a pediatric psychologist for 10+ years, working with child and adolescent patients (age 2-18) who have behavioral and/or physical health concerns. These problems often overlap and can reduce quality of life. I’ve helped children with a wide variety of presenting concerns, such as anxiety disorders, OCD, tic disorders, behavior problems, ADHD, sleep problems, chronic pain, feeding disorders, and functional abdominal pain. I enjoy working with children of all ages and their families who need support in learning how to manage their emotions and better cope with life's stressors. I'm licensed in both Ohio and Michigan.
I have been a pediatric psychologist for 10+ years, working with child and adolescent patients (age 2-18) who have behavioral and/or physical health concerns. These problems often overlap and can reduce quality of life. I’ve helped children with a wide variety of presenting concerns, such as anxiety disorders, OCD, tic disorders, behavior problems, ADHD, sleep problems, chronic pain, feeding disorders, and functional abdominal pain. I enjoy working with children of all ages and their families who need support in learning how to manage their emotions and better cope with life's stressors. I'm licensed in both Ohio and Michigan.
(614) 665-5898 View (614) 665-5898
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

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.