Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Mariah Walters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Mariah Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LISW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Is your your life so f&*%^ up that you need a therapist to handle your trauma? Congratulations, you're an adult. I specialize in PTSD, working with first responders, correctional officers, firefighters, LGBTQ+, marital therapy and BWC. (I'm also the pied piper of teenage girls. ( It's a calling not a desire.) *Will accept child clients 12years or older. ) I take some insurances. UHC, OPTUM. (Jeez people, I can't do everything for you) Now introducing James Mehl, LSW ...specializing with children, PTSD, chronic pain, BWC and LGBTQ. . Jimmy private pay at 75/hr. Dr. Walters private pay at 250/hr. We do not accept Medicaid.
Is your your life so f&*%^ up that you need a therapist to handle your trauma? Congratulations, you're an adult. I specialize in PTSD, working with first responders, correctional officers, firefighters, LGBTQ+, marital therapy and BWC. (I'm also the pied piper of teenage girls. ( It's a calling not a desire.) *Will accept child clients 12years or older. ) I take some insurances. UHC, OPTUM. (Jeez people, I can't do everything for you) Now introducing James Mehl, LSW ...specializing with children, PTSD, chronic pain, BWC and LGBTQ. . Jimmy private pay at 75/hr. Dr. Walters private pay at 250/hr. We do not accept Medicaid.
(380) 212-3599 View (380) 212-3599
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 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 Katelyn Strand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Katelyn Strand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Mindful Practice Co. is a therapy practice based on the principles of mindfulness - building awareness and skills for a hopeful future. I am a therapist with over 3 years of experience and specialized training in the areas of trauma and abuse, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in several different treatment models and draw on each of these approaches to specialize treatment for each individual. I understand mindfulness and meditation are not everyone's favorite healing modalities, and therapy is mindfulness in itself! I am honored that you would consider me to further your healing and growth.
Mindful Practice Co. is a therapy practice based on the principles of mindfulness - building awareness and skills for a hopeful future. I am a therapist with over 3 years of experience and specialized training in the areas of trauma and abuse, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in several different treatment models and draw on each of these approaches to specialize treatment for each individual. I understand mindfulness and meditation are not everyone's favorite healing modalities, and therapy is mindfulness in itself! I am honored that you would consider me to further your healing and growth.
(614) 612-1921 View (614) 612-1921
Photo of Sharon K Williston-Benadum, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Sharon K Williston-Benadum
Counselor, MA, PCC-S, LCDCIII, SAP, MAC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
The ideal client will be someone who comes to counseling with a willingness to work on the issues that are significantly affecting their lives and relationships. I enjoy working with adolescents (age 10 and up) as well as adults and am able to provide individual counseling, marital and relational counseling, as well as pastoral and spirituality counseling.
The ideal client will be someone who comes to counseling with a willingness to work on the issues that are significantly affecting their lives and relationships. I enjoy working with adolescents (age 10 and up) as well as adults and am able to provide individual counseling, marital and relational counseling, as well as pastoral and spirituality counseling.
(614) 835-7542 x707 View (614) 835-7542 x707
Photo of Mary Finley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Mary Finley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCDCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Mary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work - both from The Ohio State University. Mary has experience working with adults and teenagers who have substance use disorders and mental health disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Currently, Mary works with adults and adolescents aged 13 – 18 years old to treat anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance use disorders, complex trauma and PTSD-related concerns.
Mary holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and a Masters in Social Work - both from The Ohio State University. Mary has experience working with adults and teenagers who have substance use disorders and mental health disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Currently, Mary works with adults and adolescents aged 13 – 18 years old to treat anxiety, depression, personality disorders, substance use disorders, complex trauma and PTSD-related concerns.
(380) 666-6447 View (380) 666-6447
Photo of Kathy Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Kathy Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, ATR
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Kathy Brown, LISW-S Kathy Brown is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1989. Kathy is an existential therapist with many years of experience working with people who are struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, and depression. Kathy is well versed in many therapy techniques and is also an art therapist. Outside of work, Kathy enjoys gardening, spending time with her family and friends, playing with her dog, hiking, and doing art.
Kathy Brown, LISW-S Kathy Brown is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1989. Kathy is an existential therapist with many years of experience working with people who are struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, and depression. Kathy is well versed in many therapy techniques and is also an art therapist. Outside of work, Kathy enjoys gardening, spending time with her family and friends, playing with her dog, hiking, and doing art.
(614) 705-2422 View (614) 705-2422
Photo of Afton Avalos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Afton Avalos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
If you've decided to take the brave step to reach out for support, then it's my mission to create a safe space so we can get to the hard work of supporting your growth and healing. I work with people who've experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. I strive to create a supportive space where you can safely bring your most difficult and painful experiences, while also experiencing the joy of reconnecting with who you really are, underneath the stress and old, unhelpful ways of coping. When we feel safe and accepted, we can begin the process of shedding what's no longer working for us anymore.
If you've decided to take the brave step to reach out for support, then it's my mission to create a safe space so we can get to the hard work of supporting your growth and healing. I work with people who've experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. I strive to create a supportive space where you can safely bring your most difficult and painful experiences, while also experiencing the joy of reconnecting with who you really are, underneath the stress and old, unhelpful ways of coping. When we feel safe and accepted, we can begin the process of shedding what's no longer working for us anymore.
View
Photo of Elizabeth Watson, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Elizabeth Watson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Elizabeth Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapy Board. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and minor in Creative Writing from the Ohio State University. Elizabeth graduated from the University of Dayton with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Elizabeth's clinical interests include working with those with anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anger management, trauma and stress.
Elizabeth Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapy Board. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and minor in Creative Writing from the Ohio State University. Elizabeth graduated from the University of Dayton with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Elizabeth's clinical interests include working with those with anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anger management, trauma and stress.
(380) 888-2936 View (380) 888-2936
Photo of Jennifer Jury in Westerville, OH
Jennifer Jury
MSEd, CAGS, NCSP
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Welcome! With over 20 years of experience, I'm dedicated to creating a partnership and understanding my clients’ needs at a deep level in order to find answers to concerns and unlock potential. If you’re looking for an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance, with reliable, efficient, transparent, and personalized services, you’ve come to the right place! I have a unique perspective and level of expertise by having worked in the schools and also privately.
Welcome! With over 20 years of experience, I'm dedicated to creating a partnership and understanding my clients’ needs at a deep level in order to find answers to concerns and unlock potential. If you’re looking for an atmosphere of warmth and acceptance, with reliable, efficient, transparent, and personalized services, you’ve come to the right place! I have a unique perspective and level of expertise by having worked in the schools and also privately.
(614) 683-3924 View (614) 683-3924
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 Jennifer Kimpan, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jennifer Kimpan
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LICDC, ICADC, LADC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Change is Possible, Recovery Works. When you or someone you know is struggling with Addiction, it is difficult to know what to do. Make New Beginnings Counseling Center your first step. We provide comprehensive drug, alcohol, and addiction recovery services for those struggling and for those who want to support their recovery. Hope starts here. Recovery works, take the first step toward yours.
Change is Possible, Recovery Works. When you or someone you know is struggling with Addiction, it is difficult to know what to do. Make New Beginnings Counseling Center your first step. We provide comprehensive drug, alcohol, and addiction recovery services for those struggling and for those who want to support their recovery. Hope starts here. Recovery works, take the first step toward yours.
(937) 583-4022 View (937) 583-4022
Photo of Dawn M Puster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Dawn M Puster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
I’m an LISW-S, Licensed Independent Social Worker (I.1700618) with Supervision designation, in the state of Ohio. I’ve spent the last 20 years working with children and families who are facing personal life challenges. I believe individuals are the experts of their own lives, but sometimes need help navigating difficult experiences, emotions, and circumstances. Everyone, at some point in life, experiences a challenge they struggle to overcome. It could be a loss, emotions associated with an event, a life change, or other personal struggles. Sometimes we need to learn new or more effective ways to manage those life challenges.
I’m an LISW-S, Licensed Independent Social Worker (I.1700618) with Supervision designation, in the state of Ohio. I’ve spent the last 20 years working with children and families who are facing personal life challenges. I believe individuals are the experts of their own lives, but sometimes need help navigating difficult experiences, emotions, and circumstances. Everyone, at some point in life, experiences a challenge they struggle to overcome. It could be a loss, emotions associated with an event, a life change, or other personal struggles. Sometimes we need to learn new or more effective ways to manage those life challenges.
(380) 201-9110 View (380) 201-9110
Photo of Queen Watson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Queen Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
(614) 762-9107 View (614) 762-9107
Photo of Brad Brewer, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Brad Brewer
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, loss, life changes, addiction, work… or just life in general. I help people with situations that are impacting their ability to enjoy life & move forward. I help people that are doing OK in life achieve & become more. I'm passionate about what I do & I'm confident I can help you. If I can’t, I will refer you to someone who can.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, loss, life changes, addiction, work… or just life in general. I help people with situations that are impacting their ability to enjoy life & move forward. I help people that are doing OK in life achieve & become more. I'm passionate about what I do & I'm confident I can help you. If I can’t, I will refer you to someone who can.
(614) 389-9204 View (614) 389-9204
Photo of Jackie Savel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Jackie Savel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Welcome! It takes energy to get here. Maybe life feels like too much or too little; over or underwhelming; Maybe you need more energy or more calm; maybe you don’t know where to start, whether you want to focus on the past or present; beginnings or endings. You might be rewriting an existing story or creating something entirely new... Wherever life finds you, you are welcome, secure and believed in our space. If you are struggling, you are human; you are not burdensome, oversensitive or inferior.
Welcome! It takes energy to get here. Maybe life feels like too much or too little; over or underwhelming; Maybe you need more energy or more calm; maybe you don’t know where to start, whether you want to focus on the past or present; beginnings or endings. You might be rewriting an existing story or creating something entirely new... Wherever life finds you, you are welcome, secure and believed in our space. If you are struggling, you are human; you are not burdensome, oversensitive or inferior.
(614) 350-2709 View (614) 350-2709
Photo of Ellen Papadeas, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Ellen Papadeas
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
(380) 333-6794 View (380) 333-6794
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 Vicky Pomarico, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Vicky Pomarico
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Vicky Pomarico is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Master's Degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. Vicky provides a safe place where individuals feel empowered to heal from their experiences and build a hope for the future. She offers a holistic approach using evidence-based practices including TFCBT, traditional CBT, person-centered therapy, and behavior management, as well as offering self-care plans and coping skills. Each client will receive an individual plan that meets the needs of their overall wellness.
Vicky Pomarico is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2006. She has a Master's Degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. Vicky provides a safe place where individuals feel empowered to heal from their experiences and build a hope for the future. She offers a holistic approach using evidence-based practices including TFCBT, traditional CBT, person-centered therapy, and behavior management, as well as offering self-care plans and coping skills. Each client will receive an individual plan that meets the needs of their overall wellness.
(614) 756-3422 View (614) 756-3422
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

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.