Therapists in Conway, AR

Photo of Jordan Howard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Jordan Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC-S, CSAT, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
I have over 17 years of professional experience working with individuals, couples, and groups as a licensed counselor. As a licensed professional counselor and co-owner of ReNEW Counseling and Wellness, I currently work with adults, adolescents, couples, and groups and treat a wide variety of issues. I have a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Specialist in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I utilize a systemic approach in working with individuals and relationships.
I have over 17 years of professional experience working with individuals, couples, and groups as a licensed counselor. As a licensed professional counselor and co-owner of ReNEW Counseling and Wellness, I currently work with adults, adolescents, couples, and groups and treat a wide variety of issues. I have a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Specialist in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I utilize a systemic approach in working with individuals and relationships.
(501) 238-8142 View (501) 238-8142
Photo of Maylynn York, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Maylynn York
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034  (Online Only)
Maylynn is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She completed her degree at ASU in 2009. She has worked in many different settings and with different diagnoses. Maylynn has experience practicing in inpatient, community mental health, non-profits, schools, and private practice. Her strengths are in self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family issues, career goals, and a variety of other issues. She enjoys this work and is passionate about the pivotal transitional times in life. Maylynn completed her degree at ASU Jonesboro in 2009.
Maylynn is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She completed her degree at ASU in 2009. She has worked in many different settings and with different diagnoses. Maylynn has experience practicing in inpatient, community mental health, non-profits, schools, and private practice. Her strengths are in self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family issues, career goals, and a variety of other issues. She enjoys this work and is passionate about the pivotal transitional times in life. Maylynn completed her degree at ASU Jonesboro in 2009.
(501) 361-3450 View (501) 361-3450
Dr. Ron Pelz
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP, MBACert
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
With 20 years in the field of psychology, Dr. Pelz is an adult, marital, child and adolescent-trained Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Dr. Pelz' specialties include ADHD, Parenting skills, along with coping strategies for anxiety and depression. He provides ADHD evaluations, as well as providing couples therapy. He holds a Masters' of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP). Dr. Pelz received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Behavioral Science and Law, Sociology, and Psychology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, and a Doctorate of Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago.
With 20 years in the field of psychology, Dr. Pelz is an adult, marital, child and adolescent-trained Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Dr. Pelz' specialties include ADHD, Parenting skills, along with coping strategies for anxiety and depression. He provides ADHD evaluations, as well as providing couples therapy. He holds a Masters' of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP). Dr. Pelz received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Behavioral Science and Law, Sociology, and Psychology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, and a Doctorate of Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago.
(501) 932-8558 View (501) 932-8558
Photo of Tierney Linville, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Tierney Linville
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72032
Tierney graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with her Masters in Mental Health Counseling. Tierney has been working in Mental Health in a variety of settings including private practice, inpatient/PHP/IOP, University Counseling Centers, and short-term virtual mental health programming. Tierney as a practitioner sees herself as passionate about the patient/therapist alliance. She feels this is one of the most important factors in patient progress and healing, “We are co-pilots on this journey, I am not working for you, I am working with you”.
Tierney graduated from the University of Central Arkansas with her Masters in Mental Health Counseling. Tierney has been working in Mental Health in a variety of settings including private practice, inpatient/PHP/IOP, University Counseling Centers, and short-term virtual mental health programming. Tierney as a practitioner sees herself as passionate about the patient/therapist alliance. She feels this is one of the most important factors in patient progress and healing, “We are co-pilots on this journey, I am not working for you, I am working with you”.
(501) 430-3113 View (501) 430-3113
Photo of Matthew R. Frederick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conway, AR
Matthew R. Frederick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, II, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
As a licensed clinical social worker and co-owner of ReNEW Counseling and Wellness, I am currently work with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and groups-treating a wide variety of issues. I have a masters degree in clinical social work and specialized training in EMDR, TF-CBT, Parenting/Co-parenting; Parent Coordination; High Conflict Divorce. I work with nearly all emotional, behavioral, and mental health disorders. My professional mission and vision is to affect meaningful change.
As a licensed clinical social worker and co-owner of ReNEW Counseling and Wellness, I am currently work with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and groups-treating a wide variety of issues. I have a masters degree in clinical social work and specialized training in EMDR, TF-CBT, Parenting/Co-parenting; Parent Coordination; High Conflict Divorce. I work with nearly all emotional, behavioral, and mental health disorders. My professional mission and vision is to affect meaningful change.
(501) 238-6902 View (501) 238-6902
Photo of Dr. Anita Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Dr. Anita Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, MAC, SAP, CST
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72034  (Online Only)
Life, unfortunately, doesn't come with a handbook! Everyone can use a little help now and then navigating through the rough patches. As your counselor, I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment to help you develop a strong sense of self and meaningful relationships. I specialize in working with people struggling with sexual issues, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, and childhood trauma impacting your life today. Additionally, I assist individuals and couples through the battles and transitions they may face in different stages of their lives.
Life, unfortunately, doesn't come with a handbook! Everyone can use a little help now and then navigating through the rough patches. As your counselor, I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment to help you develop a strong sense of self and meaningful relationships. I specialize in working with people struggling with sexual issues, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, and childhood trauma impacting your life today. Additionally, I assist individuals and couples through the battles and transitions they may face in different stages of their lives.
(501) 575-1052 View (501) 575-1052
Photo of Jacob DeFee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Jacob DeFee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
I have worked with a wide range of people on a number of different issues. The majority has been depression and anxiety, but I have helped people with various mental health challenges that people face. In working with anyone, my main focus is on seeing the issue from their perspective and helping them overcome it or develop ways of coping. In seeking out therapy, for most people, there is a fear of engaging in it. A person that is able to start, participate, and finish therapy are brave people.
I have worked with a wide range of people on a number of different issues. The majority has been depression and anxiety, but I have helped people with various mental health challenges that people face. In working with anyone, my main focus is on seeing the issue from their perspective and helping them overcome it or develop ways of coping. In seeking out therapy, for most people, there is a fear of engaging in it. A person that is able to start, participate, and finish therapy are brave people.
(870) 399-1757 View (870) 399-1757
Photo of Jordan Howard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Jordan Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
I have over 12 years of professional experience working with individuals, couples, and groups as a licensed counselor. As a licensed professional counselor and co-owner of ReNEW Counseling and Wellness, I currently work with adults, adolescents, couples, and groups and treat a wide variety of issues. I have a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Specialist in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I utilize a systemic approach in working with individuals and relationships.
I have over 12 years of professional experience working with individuals, couples, and groups as a licensed counselor. As a licensed professional counselor and co-owner of ReNEW Counseling and Wellness, I currently work with adults, adolescents, couples, and groups and treat a wide variety of issues. I have a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Specialist in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I utilize a systemic approach in working with individuals and relationships.
(501) 254-7751 View (501) 254-7751
Photo of Candace Weeks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Candace Weeks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
I have a decade of professional experience working in schools, agencies, and private practice as a licensed professional counselor. I currently work with adults, adolescents, children, infants and groups. I have a Masters and an Educational Specialist degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I work with a wide variety of emotional, behavioral, and mental health disorders with a focus on trauma.
I have a decade of professional experience working in schools, agencies, and private practice as a licensed professional counselor. I currently work with adults, adolescents, children, infants and groups. I have a Masters and an Educational Specialist degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I work with a wide variety of emotional, behavioral, and mental health disorders with a focus on trauma.
(501) 697-4931 x4 View (501) 697-4931 x4
Photo of Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conway, AR
Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72034
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW), and I am accepting new clients in-person and by telehealth at Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center. I currently accept most insurances and self pay clients using cash, check, HSA/FSA card or credit card. I work with adults 18+ who struggle with every day stressors, anxiety, depression, Adult ADHD, PTSD, working on long-term goals to ensure you are living the best life possible. Call today to for a session that fits your busy schedule.
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW), and I am accepting new clients in-person and by telehealth at Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center. I currently accept most insurances and self pay clients using cash, check, HSA/FSA card or credit card. I work with adults 18+ who struggle with every day stressors, anxiety, depression, Adult ADHD, PTSD, working on long-term goals to ensure you are living the best life possible. Call today to for a session that fits your busy schedule.
(501) 236-5702 View (501) 236-5702
Photo of Leslie A Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Leslie A Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72034
Life doesn’t come with a set of instructions. Sometimes we find that what we are doing is no longer working in the way we want it to. We may find ourselves experiencing work problems, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, difficulties reaching goals, issues with parenting, grief, or just feeling like life isn’t what we want it to be. I help clients identify and build on their current strengths, while identifying ways to strengthen and build on areas that may be more challenging. It is my intention to create a safe space for clients to process their experiences, share their challenges, and find the best path forward.
Life doesn’t come with a set of instructions. Sometimes we find that what we are doing is no longer working in the way we want it to. We may find ourselves experiencing work problems, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, difficulties reaching goals, issues with parenting, grief, or just feeling like life isn’t what we want it to be. I help clients identify and build on their current strengths, while identifying ways to strengthen and build on areas that may be more challenging. It is my intention to create a safe space for clients to process their experiences, share their challenges, and find the best path forward.
(501) 408-2042 View (501) 408-2042
Photo of Jamie L Gordon, Counselor in Conway, AR
Jamie L Gordon
Counselor, LPC-S, S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
Waitlist for new clients
I love learning and have significant training in various modalities. I especially love working with individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) or post-traumatic stress Disorder (PTSD). I love working with couples and families, and am LGBTQA+ affirming, poly-aware, and sex-positive/kink knowledgeable. If you are struggling, hiring a professional is a great way to help resolve the things preventing you from living your life the way you want. I love to do the hard work of helping you with connection, communication, problem-solving, and authentic living.
I love learning and have significant training in various modalities. I especially love working with individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) or post-traumatic stress Disorder (PTSD). I love working with couples and families, and am LGBTQA+ affirming, poly-aware, and sex-positive/kink knowledgeable. If you are struggling, hiring a professional is a great way to help resolve the things preventing you from living your life the way you want. I love to do the hard work of helping you with connection, communication, problem-solving, and authentic living.
(501) 391-3913 View (501) 391-3913
Photo of Michael Marsden, Psychologist in Conway, AR
Michael Marsden
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72034
Have you ever wished life was different? Often, people go through life pretending things are “ok.” In reality, everyone experiences problems. Often, we are afraid to share them with others. We're afraid of their response. You don't have to do it alone anymore. No matter the problem you are facing... depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness... I believe together we can take steps to create a better life for you. I believe big changes are made by taking small, consistent steps. I believe a strong, collaborative, therapeutic relationship helps those I work with to explore what is holding them back, while we work toward change.
Have you ever wished life was different? Often, people go through life pretending things are “ok.” In reality, everyone experiences problems. Often, we are afraid to share them with others. We're afraid of their response. You don't have to do it alone anymore. No matter the problem you are facing... depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness... I believe together we can take steps to create a better life for you. I believe big changes are made by taking small, consistent steps. I believe a strong, collaborative, therapeutic relationship helps those I work with to explore what is holding them back, while we work toward change.
(501) 200-9383 View (501) 200-9383
Photo of Jon Priest in Conway, AR
Jon Priest
LPE-I
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
Storms in life come in many forms and can be difficult to navigate alone. Even those who have made it through may be left wondering what it all means for their life moving forward. Since 1992, Christian Perspective Counseling has provided biblical help for people in the midst of the storm or struggling to find its meaning through the practice of psychology from a distinctive Christian point of view.
Storms in life come in many forms and can be difficult to navigate alone. Even those who have made it through may be left wondering what it all means for their life moving forward. Since 1992, Christian Perspective Counseling has provided biblical help for people in the midst of the storm or struggling to find its meaning through the practice of psychology from a distinctive Christian point of view.
(501) 859-6834 View (501) 859-6834
Photo of Laura Gottsponer, Licensed Certified Social Worker in Conway, AR
Laura Gottsponer
Licensed Certified Social Worker, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72032
Life changes can be difficult whether it be relational, new experiences or added additions. “I am committed to those I see and willing to guide you along the way.” I have over 20 years of experience in the Mental Health Field. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have worked with a number of individuals who have dealt with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma. I offer a welcoming space for you to come and process what you feel the needed focus is. I also enjoy women’s issues, working with Responders, and have a love of helping you create the life and response that is healthy and unique to you.
Life changes can be difficult whether it be relational, new experiences or added additions. “I am committed to those I see and willing to guide you along the way.” I have over 20 years of experience in the Mental Health Field. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have worked with a number of individuals who have dealt with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, and trauma. I offer a welcoming space for you to come and process what you feel the needed focus is. I also enjoy women’s issues, working with Responders, and have a love of helping you create the life and response that is healthy and unique to you.
(501) 521-1346 View (501) 521-1346
Photo of Missy Lewis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Missy Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
I believe no one should journey alone and am highly honored and privileged to walk into hard places and difficulties alongside people. I have a passion to help people regain a sense of hope, healing, connection, and attachment, and to find personal tools, skills, beliefs, and confidence to help them tackle whatever life challenges may be faced. I have a heart and a lot of experience working with anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, self esteem/self image issues, stress management, relational difficulties, and non complex trauma. I also have a special heart for infertility and adoption issues.
I believe no one should journey alone and am highly honored and privileged to walk into hard places and difficulties alongside people. I have a passion to help people regain a sense of hope, healing, connection, and attachment, and to find personal tools, skills, beliefs, and confidence to help them tackle whatever life challenges may be faced. I have a heart and a lot of experience working with anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, self esteem/self image issues, stress management, relational difficulties, and non complex trauma. I also have a special heart for infertility and adoption issues.
(501) 506-2178 View (501) 506-2178
Photo of Sherry Glover, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conway, AR
Sherry Glover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72034  (Online Only)
Dr. Sherry Glover is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Dr. Glover specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and major life transitions as they relate to one's developmental stage in life.
Dr. Sherry Glover is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Dr. Glover specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and major life transitions as they relate to one's developmental stage in life.
(501) 299-9091 View (501) 299-9091
James R Hightower
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
I have been licensed as a counselor since the mid 90's. I am married with three children and eight grandchildren. I am passionate about helping people move toward healing, wholeness and a healthy life. In a world where people often feel isolated, alone, abandoned or rejected, I am willing to walk into that pain with my clients.
I have been licensed as a counselor since the mid 90's. I am married with three children and eight grandchildren. I am passionate about helping people move toward healing, wholeness and a healthy life. In a world where people often feel isolated, alone, abandoned or rejected, I am willing to walk into that pain with my clients.
(501) 697-4027 View (501) 697-4027
Photo of Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Conway, AR
Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPE-I, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034  (Online Only)
Hi! Thanks for stopping by! I am a licensed psychological examiner (LPE-I) and a professional counselor (LPC). I am happy to share that I have recently founded Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center. You could consider me local to the central Arkansas area. I enjoy working with the community where I pretty much grew up. After graduating from UCA in 2009, I completed a master of arts degree in clinical psychology from Forest Institute in 2012. Over the last 10 years, I have worked with those experiencing depression, grief/loss, life adjustments, and LGBTQ specific issues.
Hi! Thanks for stopping by! I am a licensed psychological examiner (LPE-I) and a professional counselor (LPC). I am happy to share that I have recently founded Central Arkansas Testing & Therapy Center. You could consider me local to the central Arkansas area. I enjoy working with the community where I pretty much grew up. After graduating from UCA in 2009, I completed a master of arts degree in clinical psychology from Forest Institute in 2012. Over the last 10 years, I have worked with those experiencing depression, grief/loss, life adjustments, and LGBTQ specific issues.
(501) 322-6046 View (501) 322-6046
Photo of Melissa Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Conway, AR
Melissa Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
I am so glad that you are taking the important first step in reaching out for the help that you deserve! My name is Melissa Harrison, and I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker with over 5 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, and adults in Central Arkansas. I work with clients experiencing a number of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and many others. I am especially passionate about working with clients to heal trauma, find purpose, and adjust to life’s stressors and changes.
I am so glad that you are taking the important first step in reaching out for the help that you deserve! My name is Melissa Harrison, and I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker with over 5 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, and adults in Central Arkansas. I work with clients experiencing a number of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and many others. I am especially passionate about working with clients to heal trauma, find purpose, and adjust to life’s stressors and changes.
(501) 300-2618 View (501) 300-2618

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Conway, AR

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Conway, AR who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
75% Relationship Issues
72% Stress
71% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Ambetter
61% QualChoice

How Therapists in Conway, AR see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Conway?

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.