Therapists in Edmonds, WA

Photo of Jessica Wong Life Healing Therapy And Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Jessica Wong Life Healing Therapy And Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Waitlist for new clients
Please email to join the waitlist. Life can be meaningful even when painful events happen. I believe the path out of suffering is when we pass through our struggles, instead of running away from them. I am honored to be your secure emotional support through your personal and relational struggles. I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and work with a broad spectrum of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance addiction. I help my clients improve their self-esteem, process grief, and heal from painful events. My clients often find strength, relief, acceptance, and growth from working with me.
Please email to join the waitlist. Life can be meaningful even when painful events happen. I believe the path out of suffering is when we pass through our struggles, instead of running away from them. I am honored to be your secure emotional support through your personal and relational struggles. I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and work with a broad spectrum of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance addiction. I help my clients improve their self-esteem, process grief, and heal from painful events. My clients often find strength, relief, acceptance, and growth from working with me.
(425) 217-3170 View (425) 217-3170
Photo of Marieka Miller & The Evolved Athlete's Institute , Psychologist in Edmonds, WA
Marieka Miller & The Evolved Athlete's Institute
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
My professional experience, academic emphasis, and personal passion aims at helping clients experience their full potential. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I also work as a performance consultant for competitive athletes and coaches using mental skills training. I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University and have fifteen years of clinical experience in private practice throughout western Washington.
My professional experience, academic emphasis, and personal passion aims at helping clients experience their full potential. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I also work as a performance consultant for competitive athletes and coaches using mental skills training. I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University and have fifteen years of clinical experience in private practice throughout western Washington.
(206) 693-4815 View (206) 693-4815
Photo of Dr. Alana Jackson, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Dr. Alana Jackson
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
Are you tired of being on Life's Merry Go-Round? I can help you feel alive again! I believe that each of us is always one decision away from a totally different life. Change is difficult and stressful. Some of us fight it, some of us try avoiding it, and some of us lean into it. Change is the one thing that is certain in life. I am here to help with all the feelings and stresses that are associated with changes of every kind. I approach therapy from an individualist, holistic, and integrative lens. I believe personal health is impacted by emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical factors which affect personal health and well-being.
Are you tired of being on Life's Merry Go-Round? I can help you feel alive again! I believe that each of us is always one decision away from a totally different life. Change is difficult and stressful. Some of us fight it, some of us try avoiding it, and some of us lean into it. Change is the one thing that is certain in life. I am here to help with all the feelings and stresses that are associated with changes of every kind. I approach therapy from an individualist, holistic, and integrative lens. I believe personal health is impacted by emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical factors which affect personal health and well-being.
(425) 584-5583 View (425) 584-5583
Photo of Elizabeth B Lyell, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Elizabeth B Lyell
Counselor, CC, PhD
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
My overall aim is to offer warm, safe, thoughtful, caring support for you as you deal with whatever difficulties or challenges you are going through. You may be facing change, or the need for such. If you are experiencing insecurity, anxiety, fear, confusion, depression, turmoil, I can help. And if you are searching for new life direction and wish to develop greater confidence, self-awareness and intactness, I can help with this as well. I enjoy working with people and can offer you compassion, neutrality, wisdom, encouragement. If you wish to discover more about yourself and your situation, you have my support, please be in touch.
My overall aim is to offer warm, safe, thoughtful, caring support for you as you deal with whatever difficulties or challenges you are going through. You may be facing change, or the need for such. If you are experiencing insecurity, anxiety, fear, confusion, depression, turmoil, I can help. And if you are searching for new life direction and wish to develop greater confidence, self-awareness and intactness, I can help with this as well. I enjoy working with people and can offer you compassion, neutrality, wisdom, encouragement. If you wish to discover more about yourself and your situation, you have my support, please be in touch.
(425) 598-0831 View (425) 598-0831
Photo of Sarah Hoff, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Sarah Hoff
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
Please note at this time I only have openings on Wednesday mornings. I am an experienced individual and family therapist with specific expertise working with caregiver stress/burnout and neurodiverse populations. My clients are tired, frustrated, having difficulty with self-care and often struggle with depression and anxiety. They may have issues related to childhood that are interfering in their current adult life. My role is to help create space for each individual person within the context of their daily life to ease stress and create space for all to thrive.
Please note at this time I only have openings on Wednesday mornings. I am an experienced individual and family therapist with specific expertise working with caregiver stress/burnout and neurodiverse populations. My clients are tired, frustrated, having difficulty with self-care and often struggle with depression and anxiety. They may have issues related to childhood that are interfering in their current adult life. My role is to help create space for each individual person within the context of their daily life to ease stress and create space for all to thrive.
(425) 517-1334 View (425) 517-1334
Photo of Katie Wilson, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Katie Wilson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I am a deep believer in the process of change. I have seen and experienced the fruit of the work of change and healing that arises as one pursues the process of therapy. I believe that through the power of new relational experiences, both with ourselves and with another, we get to change how we are in the world and how our experiences impact us. I work well with clients from a variety of backgrounds and ages. I have done extensive work with eating and body issues, including working in residential facilities and higher levels of care. I work to help you bring meaningful change to your daily life.
I am a deep believer in the process of change. I have seen and experienced the fruit of the work of change and healing that arises as one pursues the process of therapy. I believe that through the power of new relational experiences, both with ourselves and with another, we get to change how we are in the world and how our experiences impact us. I work well with clients from a variety of backgrounds and ages. I have done extensive work with eating and body issues, including working in residential facilities and higher levels of care. I work to help you bring meaningful change to your daily life.
(425) 842-7783 View (425) 842-7783
Photo of Empowering Minds PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Empowering Minds PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
My passion is to empower others to build self-confidence through therapy. Through self-confidence, you can learn how to care for yourself in ways that help you grow using self-compassion and maintain your mental health.
My passion is to empower others to build self-confidence through therapy. Through self-confidence, you can learn how to care for yourself in ways that help you grow using self-compassion and maintain your mental health.
(425) 528-8960 View (425) 528-8960
Photo of Niko Palacios, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Niko Palacios
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Sometimes we struggle to make meaning where life has thrown us a curveball: a death, a divorce, coming out, or even a pandemic. It’s overwhelming trying to bring order to chaos, at times having to impossibly reconcile competing truths. “It gets better” fails to appreciate the acute pain of the moment, only going so far in moving the needle towards hope. In an age where humans are increasingly polarized, buoyed by deeply held beliefs, there remains a need for something more than personal happiness alone. As a relational Therapist, I help clients find sustainable wellness; prioritizing relationship with self and others over ideology.
Sometimes we struggle to make meaning where life has thrown us a curveball: a death, a divorce, coming out, or even a pandemic. It’s overwhelming trying to bring order to chaos, at times having to impossibly reconcile competing truths. “It gets better” fails to appreciate the acute pain of the moment, only going so far in moving the needle towards hope. In an age where humans are increasingly polarized, buoyed by deeply held beliefs, there remains a need for something more than personal happiness alone. As a relational Therapist, I help clients find sustainable wellness; prioritizing relationship with self and others over ideology.
(206) 222-2942 View (206) 222-2942
Photo of Jasmine Gao, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Jasmine Gao
Counselor, MDiv, MSEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Jasmine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, supervised by Barry Levit. Over the past 10 years, Jasmine has worked as a mental health counselor in many different settings including public and private schools, a community counseling center, church, and private practice. She provides services to individuals (ages 10 and up), couples, and families.
Jasmine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, supervised by Barry Levit. Over the past 10 years, Jasmine has worked as a mental health counselor in many different settings including public and private schools, a community counseling center, church, and private practice. She provides services to individuals (ages 10 and up), couples, and families.
(425) 470-6946 View (425) 470-6946
Photo of Meghan E Szczebak, Psychologist in Edmonds, WA
Meghan E Szczebak
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
My Practice is Currently Full- I am a Clinical Psychologist working with adults. My practice appeals to people who who not only suffer from symptoms that impede their daily happiness, but those who long to grow in their understanding of themselves and others. I aid in this process by focusing closely on the unique talents each person brings into the room. I look not for what is wrong but what is right and simply ask that they clients bring an honest willingness to participate in a partnership for change.
My Practice is Currently Full- I am a Clinical Psychologist working with adults. My practice appeals to people who who not only suffer from symptoms that impede their daily happiness, but those who long to grow in their understanding of themselves and others. I aid in this process by focusing closely on the unique talents each person brings into the room. I look not for what is wrong but what is right and simply ask that they clients bring an honest willingness to participate in a partnership for change.
(206) 208-7095 View (206) 208-7095
Photo of Paula S Best, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Paula S Best
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I am a relational psychotherapist primarily working with adults and older adolescents. My work predominantly revolves around establishing and sustaining a safe and secure place for you to work with your fears and desires. We will work with the specific issues that brought you into therapy as well as look at the relationships with the important people in your life. These relationships likely contribute to your greatest fears and deepest desires.
I am a relational psychotherapist primarily working with adults and older adolescents. My work predominantly revolves around establishing and sustaining a safe and secure place for you to work with your fears and desires. We will work with the specific issues that brought you into therapy as well as look at the relationships with the important people in your life. These relationships likely contribute to your greatest fears and deepest desires.
(206) 922-8544 View (206) 922-8544
Photo of Henry Chau in Edmonds, WA
Henry Chau
BS
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
After many years of ignoring my desire to be in the counseling field, I am humbled and excited to be in a profession where I can make contributions towards a client’s journey as they pursue healing, understanding, and self-discovery.  Life can certainly have many challenges and these circumstances may cause stress, anxiety, fear, pain, grief, discomfort, …etc.  Asking for help in these difficult times requires a lot of courage due to the risks of being vulnerable and I am honored to join you in your journey.
After many years of ignoring my desire to be in the counseling field, I am humbled and excited to be in a profession where I can make contributions towards a client’s journey as they pursue healing, understanding, and self-discovery.  Life can certainly have many challenges and these circumstances may cause stress, anxiety, fear, pain, grief, discomfort, …etc.  Asking for help in these difficult times requires a lot of courage due to the risks of being vulnerable and I am honored to join you in your journey.
(425) 600-9164 x122 View (425) 600-9164 x122
Photo of Mila Wold, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Mila Wold
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
No matter why you are seeking therapy at this time, I believe that the concerns and struggles you are facing makes sense in the context of your lived experiences. I believe that people do the best they can given the circumstances. Often times we come up with coping skills that are useful at some point in our life but then we out grow them but continue using them- which can lead to a cycle of behaviors and outcomes that can cause more hurt and isolation. I believe people's deepest longings are often to be loved, seen and known- and our actions are often to protect those vulernable feelings that come from that longing.
No matter why you are seeking therapy at this time, I believe that the concerns and struggles you are facing makes sense in the context of your lived experiences. I believe that people do the best they can given the circumstances. Often times we come up with coping skills that are useful at some point in our life but then we out grow them but continue using them- which can lead to a cycle of behaviors and outcomes that can cause more hurt and isolation. I believe people's deepest longings are often to be loved, seen and known- and our actions are often to protect those vulernable feelings that come from that longing.
(206) 237-6783 View (206) 237-6783
Photo of Terry Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Terry Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Couples or individuals struggling with conflict, stress, or overwhelming circumstances will find a safe place here to sort their thoughts and feelings about the issues while learning to repair and create deeper connections with loved ones. As a systems therapist, I understand the challenges of life transitions and help strengthen couple relationships and family cohesion and resilience through various life challenges. For clients struggling with past family of origin issues, we work to heal difficult memories. I help clients grow from brokenness, trauma, grief and loss to find healing, hope, peace and a new direction.
Couples or individuals struggling with conflict, stress, or overwhelming circumstances will find a safe place here to sort their thoughts and feelings about the issues while learning to repair and create deeper connections with loved ones. As a systems therapist, I understand the challenges of life transitions and help strengthen couple relationships and family cohesion and resilience through various life challenges. For clients struggling with past family of origin issues, we work to heal difficult memories. I help clients grow from brokenness, trauma, grief and loss to find healing, hope, peace and a new direction.
(206) 569-5580 View (206) 569-5580
Photo of Ken Nichols-Hoppe, Psychologist in Edmonds, WA
Ken Nichols-Hoppe
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in helping people work toward a better life. When working with individuals or couples, teens or elders, my style is supportive yet direct. My mission is to help my clients (both individuals and couples) develop life skills and solve problems –- thereby improving their lives and their relationships. We can best accomplish this via a nurturing, active, and goal-oriented counseling process. As we develop a trusting and collaborative relationship, I will help you work through many issues, including relationship and marital problems, anxiety, depression and anger - as well as personality patterns and work-related issues.
I specialize in helping people work toward a better life. When working with individuals or couples, teens or elders, my style is supportive yet direct. My mission is to help my clients (both individuals and couples) develop life skills and solve problems –- thereby improving their lives and their relationships. We can best accomplish this via a nurturing, active, and goal-oriented counseling process. As we develop a trusting and collaborative relationship, I will help you work through many issues, including relationship and marital problems, anxiety, depression and anger - as well as personality patterns and work-related issues.
(425) 780-5994 View (425) 780-5994
Photo of Little Hearts Therapy, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Little Hearts Therapy
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
Tomorrow's leaders are your children today. Being a part of your child's team of advocates is an honor and I take pride in my role. My goal is to create an environment where kids feel accepted and supported, regardless of their gender expression. I know that fostering self-acceptance in this aspect of their identity is fundamental to their overall mental health and well-being.
Tomorrow's leaders are your children today. Being a part of your child's team of advocates is an honor and I take pride in my role. My goal is to create an environment where kids feel accepted and supported, regardless of their gender expression. I know that fostering self-acceptance in this aspect of their identity is fundamental to their overall mental health and well-being.
(425) 448-4234 View (425) 448-4234
Photo of Jessica E Baird, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Jessica E Baird
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling to find balance in your life and want support and guidance? Would you like to express thoughts and emotions to a non-biased supporter and advocate? I provide warmth, empathy, compassion and heart-centered focus. I have 14 years of clinical experience, and recently worked in New Zealand learning skills in family counseling, parenting groups and on a Child and Adolescent Mental Health crisis team. I enjoy seeing clients experiencing transitions and changes such as loss, retirement, marriage, pregnancy, graduation, career, moving, empty nest, trauma, health, finances, religious/spiritual beliefs and relationships.
Are you struggling to find balance in your life and want support and guidance? Would you like to express thoughts and emotions to a non-biased supporter and advocate? I provide warmth, empathy, compassion and heart-centered focus. I have 14 years of clinical experience, and recently worked in New Zealand learning skills in family counseling, parenting groups and on a Child and Adolescent Mental Health crisis team. I enjoy seeing clients experiencing transitions and changes such as loss, retirement, marriage, pregnancy, graduation, career, moving, empty nest, trauma, health, finances, religious/spiritual beliefs and relationships.
(206) 558-9040 View (206) 558-9040
Photo of Leslie Samdahl Therapy, PLLC, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Leslie Samdahl Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Not accepting new clients
If you are taking the step to find a therapist, that most likely means there are aspects of your life that you wish to change. This deeper exploration of what in your life is and isn’t working can feel scary. As your therapist, I will help you ease into this time of self-exploration and self-awareness, providing you with a safe and judgment free space to explore the thoughts, behaviors, and emotions that might impede on personal growth. In my practice, I work with individuals that are struggling with eating disorders, body image, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, perfectionism, and emotion regulation issues.
If you are taking the step to find a therapist, that most likely means there are aspects of your life that you wish to change. This deeper exploration of what in your life is and isn’t working can feel scary. As your therapist, I will help you ease into this time of self-exploration and self-awareness, providing you with a safe and judgment free space to explore the thoughts, behaviors, and emotions that might impede on personal growth. In my practice, I work with individuals that are struggling with eating disorders, body image, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, perfectionism, and emotion regulation issues.
(425) 517-2954 View (425) 517-2954
Photo of Yurushka Martin, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Yurushka Martin
Counselor, MA, LMCHA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
The last few years has brought on a large amount of change. Change that may have caused you to feel isolated, anxious or even scared. The loss of control has left many of us yearning to hug friends and/or family for comfort. My hope is to establish a safe, judgment free environment for you to explore the grief and anxiety you may feel. It is in these contexts that we can begin to discover new levels of honesty, awareness, and hopefully self-compassion and a greater sense of alignment with our new realities. I take the role of active listener, reflecting back to you patterns or themes that I notice in the stories or experiences you
The last few years has brought on a large amount of change. Change that may have caused you to feel isolated, anxious or even scared. The loss of control has left many of us yearning to hug friends and/or family for comfort. My hope is to establish a safe, judgment free environment for you to explore the grief and anxiety you may feel. It is in these contexts that we can begin to discover new levels of honesty, awareness, and hopefully self-compassion and a greater sense of alignment with our new realities. I take the role of active listener, reflecting back to you patterns or themes that I notice in the stories or experiences you
(855) 922-4436 View (855) 922-4436
Photo of Jamie Boulding-Bridges, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Jamie Boulding-Bridges
Counselor, LPC, CST, FAC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I have trained with The Gottman institute and integrate their methods through an emotionally focused lens when working with couples. While I openly welcome all couples, I have additional experience and special insight working with same sex couples.
I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I have trained with The Gottman institute and integrate their methods through an emotionally focused lens when working with couples. While I openly welcome all couples, I have additional experience and special insight working with same sex couples.
(425) 414-7616 View (425) 414-7616

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Edmonds, WA

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Edmonds, WA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
67% Grief
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Premera
62% Regence
55% First Choice Health | FCH

How Therapists in Edmonds, WA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Edmonds?

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.