Therapists in Westerville, OH

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 Sandra Webster, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Sandra Webster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
As of 2.23.24 and until further notice, I am no longer accepting new clients. Dear Potential Clients: I am a compassionate, nurturing, thinking-outside-of-the-box clinical psychologist with experience working with children and adults on the spectrum, children and families, children and adults with anxiety and depression related to school or work stress, and adults facing serious health issues. I provide a warm and creative environment as we work together to promote your sense of wholeness - child or adult - and bring families together.
As of 2.23.24 and until further notice, I am no longer accepting new clients. Dear Potential Clients: I am a compassionate, nurturing, thinking-outside-of-the-box clinical psychologist with experience working with children and adults on the spectrum, children and families, children and adults with anxiety and depression related to school or work stress, and adults facing serious health issues. I provide a warm and creative environment as we work together to promote your sense of wholeness - child or adult - and bring families together.
(440) 271-1913 View (440) 271-1913
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 Lisa Walker Bebley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Walker Bebley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I have experience in individual, couple, and group-counseling helping others eliminate negative stressors by replacing them with positive behavioral changes. My expertise is in working with adults who suffer with alcohol & substance abuse, depression, anxiety, coping skills, anger, crisis & stress management, women issues as well as PTSD. Are you having difficulty finding your way? Need a clear path to understanding where you are and what your purpose is? Do you need guidance in discovering the answers to those difficult questions in life? I am here to help you discover your way.
I have experience in individual, couple, and group-counseling helping others eliminate negative stressors by replacing them with positive behavioral changes. My expertise is in working with adults who suffer with alcohol & substance abuse, depression, anxiety, coping skills, anger, crisis & stress management, women issues as well as PTSD. Are you having difficulty finding your way? Need a clear path to understanding where you are and what your purpose is? Do you need guidance in discovering the answers to those difficult questions in life? I am here to help you discover your way.
(614) 972-1334 View (614) 972-1334
Photo of One Recovery Company LLC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
One Recovery Company LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CSAT, EMDR-tr, M
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Is your relationship with a loved one or spouse suffering? Are you keeping secrets from loved ones or feel you are at the place where you need intervention? At One Recovery Company, I specialize in addressing internal and external systems that create dysfunction in relationships. Furthermore, I help my clients reconstruct the parts of themselves that seem to fall short of achieving healthy attachment. If your goal is to establish recovery that can restore your relationships, mental health, and overall life satisfaction, here is your invitation. The space I offer is one that is safe, judgment-free, and equipped to help you succeed.
Is your relationship with a loved one or spouse suffering? Are you keeping secrets from loved ones or feel you are at the place where you need intervention? At One Recovery Company, I specialize in addressing internal and external systems that create dysfunction in relationships. Furthermore, I help my clients reconstruct the parts of themselves that seem to fall short of achieving healthy attachment. If your goal is to establish recovery that can restore your relationships, mental health, and overall life satisfaction, here is your invitation. The space I offer is one that is safe, judgment-free, and equipped to help you succeed.
(614) 739-9406 View (614) 739-9406
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 Nicole Lawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Nicole Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Hello and welcome! Do you ever find yourself feeling depressed or anxious and wondering how to navigate life in a healthier way? When you are struggling, do you ever wonder about how there has to be a better way? Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or seeking personal growth, we'll work collaboratively to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Ohio State University and have been in practice since 2010 and have several years of experience in helping individuals transform their lives.
Hello and welcome! Do you ever find yourself feeling depressed or anxious and wondering how to navigate life in a healthier way? When you are struggling, do you ever wonder about how there has to be a better way? Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or seeking personal growth, we'll work collaboratively to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Ohio State University and have been in practice since 2010 and have several years of experience in helping individuals transform their lives.
(614) 541-1872 View (614) 541-1872
Photo of Brittany Taylor, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Brittany Taylor
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with specialized experience treating trauma and anxiety disorders. My practice utilizes intentional listening and attunement, curiosity, and empathy, to guide and support my clients to identify beliefs that no longer serve them and help them recover from symptoms of stress, anxiety, difficult life changes/transitions, women’s issues, and trauma. I believe that transformation occurs when the body, mind and heart are working in unison and symbiotically, and it is my mission to use therapy as a tool to help clients achieve that.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with specialized experience treating trauma and anxiety disorders. My practice utilizes intentional listening and attunement, curiosity, and empathy, to guide and support my clients to identify beliefs that no longer serve them and help them recover from symptoms of stress, anxiety, difficult life changes/transitions, women’s issues, and trauma. I believe that transformation occurs when the body, mind and heart are working in unison and symbiotically, and it is my mission to use therapy as a tool to help clients achieve that.
(614) 945-4571 View (614) 945-4571
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 Rebecca Owens in Westerville, OH
Rebecca Owens
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes life presents challenges and circumstances that leave us feeling lost, hurt, frustrated, or overwhelmed. I would be privileged to walk alongside you and provide support as you navigate through the journey of recovering from your circumstances. We will work together to implement helpful coping skills to provide what you need to move forward with strength and confidence.
Sometimes life presents challenges and circumstances that leave us feeling lost, hurt, frustrated, or overwhelmed. I would be privileged to walk alongside you and provide support as you navigate through the journey of recovering from your circumstances. We will work together to implement helpful coping skills to provide what you need to move forward with strength and confidence.
(614) 763-6324 x713 View (614) 763-6324 x713
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 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 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 Holly Graham, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Holly Graham
Counselor, LPCC, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
For over 10 years, I have worked alongside individuals encountering issues with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, life adjustments, and stress. Working in collaboration with clients, I seek to empower them to work through uncomfortable experiences and achieve their goals. I strive to help individuals find, develop, and utilize their strengths in order to face the issues of their lives directly, with compassion, and without self-judgement.
For over 10 years, I have worked alongside individuals encountering issues with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, life adjustments, and stress. Working in collaboration with clients, I seek to empower them to work through uncomfortable experiences and achieve their goals. I strive to help individuals find, develop, and utilize their strengths in order to face the issues of their lives directly, with compassion, and without self-judgement.
(614) 426-0076 View (614) 426-0076
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 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 Sara E Matlack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Sara E Matlack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I genuinely enjoy working with families and adults seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Parent child interaction, trauma, Domestic Violence and Spirituality. I love helping clients meet their individual goals and improving their coping skills to decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues and trauma.
I genuinely enjoy working with families and adults seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Parent child interaction, trauma, Domestic Violence and Spirituality. I love helping clients meet their individual goals and improving their coping skills to decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues and trauma.
(833) 579-7674 View (833) 579-7674
Photo of Josh Grashin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Josh Grashin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is one who is looking for more and may or may not be able to pinpoint what it is they are seeking. Many of the people I counsel are dealing with a new life situation or have always been struggling for awhile, and therefore I approach every client as an individual with their own unique circumstances and that it is my job to help determine how to navigate those challenges. My ultimate goal is to help people learn to ride the waves that day-to-day life throws at them.
My ideal client is one who is looking for more and may or may not be able to pinpoint what it is they are seeking. Many of the people I counsel are dealing with a new life situation or have always been struggling for awhile, and therefore I approach every client as an individual with their own unique circumstances and that it is my job to help determine how to navigate those challenges. My ultimate goal is to help people learn to ride the waves that day-to-day life throws at them.
(614) 665-5594 View (614) 665-5594
Photo of Edward Luersman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Edward Luersman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Grief, infertility, and miscarriage leave us feeling alone, overwhelmed, and trapped. You may be fed up with a lack of recognition or helpful support from loved ones and the Church, feeling uncertain and scared about the future, or feeling guilty or worthless. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to have someone who understands you and can accompany you. You’re ready to learn how to better cope with your loss or infertility. Most of all, you’re ready to do what it takes to experience less pain and isolation and more peace and hope.
Grief, infertility, and miscarriage leave us feeling alone, overwhelmed, and trapped. You may be fed up with a lack of recognition or helpful support from loved ones and the Church, feeling uncertain and scared about the future, or feeling guilty or worthless. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to have someone who understands you and can accompany you. You’re ready to learn how to better cope with your loss or infertility. Most of all, you’re ready to do what it takes to experience less pain and isolation and more peace and hope.
(614) 957-3061 View (614) 957-3061
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

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.