Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Shannon McBride, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Shannon McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
(865) 324-0783 View (865) 324-0783
Photo of Elizabeth Oldham, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Elizabeth Oldham
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Hello! I’m Elizabeth, and my goal is to help you address harmful thought patterns, process emotional wounds, and pursue a way forward that feels authentic and purposeful. I am a mental health therapist in Knoxville who works with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults. I provide individual counseling for those struggling with: anxiety, the impact of trauma, relationship difficulties, family conflict, grief, self-esteem issues, identity work, religious/spiritual issues, sexual healing, peripartum mood disorders, and life transitions.
Hello! I’m Elizabeth, and my goal is to help you address harmful thought patterns, process emotional wounds, and pursue a way forward that feels authentic and purposeful. I am a mental health therapist in Knoxville who works with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults. I provide individual counseling for those struggling with: anxiety, the impact of trauma, relationship difficulties, family conflict, grief, self-esteem issues, identity work, religious/spiritual issues, sexual healing, peripartum mood disorders, and life transitions.
(865) 270-4361 x818 View (865) 270-4361 x818
Photo of Diana Brown Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Diana Brown Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Please note, you will receive a faster response if you uses email! I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients who want to live healthier and more fulfilling lives. When entering into a relationship with a therapist, it is important to bring an attitude of change and we will build trust as we go. I see the therapeutic process as a partnership. My therapeutic approach comes from a love of education and I hope to teach my clients skills they can use to navigate through life. I use workbooks and homework to help my clients fully engage in the changes they want to see in themselves.
Please note, you will receive a faster response if you uses email! I enjoy working with a diverse group of clients who want to live healthier and more fulfilling lives. When entering into a relationship with a therapist, it is important to bring an attitude of change and we will build trust as we go. I see the therapeutic process as a partnership. My therapeutic approach comes from a love of education and I hope to teach my clients skills they can use to navigate through life. I use workbooks and homework to help my clients fully engage in the changes they want to see in themselves.
(865) 999-0425 View (865) 999-0425
Photo of Sara Darby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Sara Darby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
As a licensed counselor, I am committed to providing quality counseling services to the East TN community and Tennessee virtually. I have been licensed in Tennessee since 2015. I have worked in mental health since 2008. I had the wonderful opportunity from 2012-2016 to work under a licensed psychologist learning the ins and outs of a holistic approach of person centered therapy. Starting in 2016 I opened my own private practice and have been serving solely in that capacity since 2016. I offer faith based services only when asked to do so. I accept people from all walks of life and believe that everyone deserves dignity and respect.
As a licensed counselor, I am committed to providing quality counseling services to the East TN community and Tennessee virtually. I have been licensed in Tennessee since 2015. I have worked in mental health since 2008. I had the wonderful opportunity from 2012-2016 to work under a licensed psychologist learning the ins and outs of a holistic approach of person centered therapy. Starting in 2016 I opened my own private practice and have been serving solely in that capacity since 2016. I offer faith based services only when asked to do so. I accept people from all walks of life and believe that everyone deserves dignity and respect.
(865) 410-8191 View (865) 410-8191
Photo of Jessica Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Jessica Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
The decision to start therapy can be an intimidating one. It is my job to make that a little easier. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, and strive to create a safe, welcoming environment for anyone I meet. I incorporate multiple approaches, and bring more than ten years of experience to the table. I want to partner with my clients to improve their lives and help them reach their full potential. My work is my calling, and it is my passion in life to empower my clients and help them feel fully supported in reaching their goals.
The decision to start therapy can be an intimidating one. It is my job to make that a little easier. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, and strive to create a safe, welcoming environment for anyone I meet. I incorporate multiple approaches, and bring more than ten years of experience to the table. I want to partner with my clients to improve their lives and help them reach their full potential. My work is my calling, and it is my passion in life to empower my clients and help them feel fully supported in reaching their goals.
(865) 622-4511 View (865) 622-4511
Photo of Lynne Sparrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Lynne Sparrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC, RYT 200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
Waitlist for new clients
Have you reached a point in your life where you've done all the "right" things, but things just don't feel quite "right?" Our brains are doing the best they can to help us have the lives we want, but that sweet little organ is often misguided. Our brains are wired to help us survive what we've been through, but what happens when it's over? The brain doesn't just snap back to where it was before, or sigh and say, "Ahhhh, now we can relax!" Your brain needs help to rewire and heal. When your brain heals from the trauma you've been through, you're able to come home to yourself and access all that you are and all that you can be.
Have you reached a point in your life where you've done all the "right" things, but things just don't feel quite "right?" Our brains are doing the best they can to help us have the lives we want, but that sweet little organ is often misguided. Our brains are wired to help us survive what we've been through, but what happens when it's over? The brain doesn't just snap back to where it was before, or sigh and say, "Ahhhh, now we can relax!" Your brain needs help to rewire and heal. When your brain heals from the trauma you've been through, you're able to come home to yourself and access all that you are and all that you can be.
(865) 234-3655 View (865) 234-3655
Photo of April Ella, Counselor in Knoxville, TN
April Ella
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Grief counseling, toxic family relationships, narcissistic abuse by family, life transitions, relationship issues, ADHD issues, lack of self-esteem, self-awareness, and boundaries, depression and anxiety, fertility issues, loss of pregnancy, family/relationship trauma, feeling overwhelmed, chronic illness, personal women's issues, aging concerns (health, hair loss, autoimmune, relationship during different stages), sexuality/shame (abuse, emptiness, STD's).
Grief counseling, toxic family relationships, narcissistic abuse by family, life transitions, relationship issues, ADHD issues, lack of self-esteem, self-awareness, and boundaries, depression and anxiety, fertility issues, loss of pregnancy, family/relationship trauma, feeling overwhelmed, chronic illness, personal women's issues, aging concerns (health, hair loss, autoimmune, relationship during different stages), sexuality/shame (abuse, emptiness, STD's).
(865) 351-6215 View (865) 351-6215
Photo of Dayle Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Dayle Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Not accepting new clients
A warm hello. I work with individuals and couples, helping them navigate life's challenges. I am person-centered and strengths-focused, meeting my clients with genuine, heart-centered quality care. Utilizing Person-Centered Therapy, DBT, CBT, and a variety of other modalities through a relational approach ensures individualized treatment for each person I see. As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I offer additional resources and treatment options for clients as well. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. Sitting with my clients is a journey I’m truly honored to be part of. Don't hesitate to reach out - looking forward to meeting you!
A warm hello. I work with individuals and couples, helping them navigate life's challenges. I am person-centered and strengths-focused, meeting my clients with genuine, heart-centered quality care. Utilizing Person-Centered Therapy, DBT, CBT, and a variety of other modalities through a relational approach ensures individualized treatment for each person I see. As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I offer additional resources and treatment options for clients as well. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. Sitting with my clients is a journey I’m truly honored to be part of. Don't hesitate to reach out - looking forward to meeting you!
(865) 426-1255 View (865) 426-1255
Photo of Sarah Bruck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Sarah Bruck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
As humans, we need to feel seen, understood, and valued for our experience. In a chaotic, changing world, it can be difficult to form the type of supportive networks that allow individuals to feel valued or empowered. Through my practice, I hope to support individuals who are seeking to heal from past hardships, build helpful coping strategies, and discover emotional wellbeing in a safe and supportive environment. Together, we can identify and build upon your strengths in order to process and integrate your past, present, and future, discovering a life worth living.
As humans, we need to feel seen, understood, and valued for our experience. In a chaotic, changing world, it can be difficult to form the type of supportive networks that allow individuals to feel valued or empowered. Through my practice, I hope to support individuals who are seeking to heal from past hardships, build helpful coping strategies, and discover emotional wellbeing in a safe and supportive environment. Together, we can identify and build upon your strengths in order to process and integrate your past, present, and future, discovering a life worth living.
(865) 217-1688 View (865) 217-1688
Photo of Mariah Williams Wooldridge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Mariah Williams Wooldridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37930
I'm mostly telehealth, with in person options on Mondays. I help clients honor their past, find their voice, and create their future. It's important that my clients feel valued and respected. My commitment to you is simple: to hold an open non-judgmental space where you may reflect, learn, and grow while feeling supported, safe, and gently challenged. Eventually our discoveries will become a part of your inner voice. You'll be able to notice patterns, challenge your thoughts, and consistently live according to your ideal values. You will become your own advocate. Our work will be together, but your success will be yours.
I'm mostly telehealth, with in person options on Mondays. I help clients honor their past, find their voice, and create their future. It's important that my clients feel valued and respected. My commitment to you is simple: to hold an open non-judgmental space where you may reflect, learn, and grow while feeling supported, safe, and gently challenged. Eventually our discoveries will become a part of your inner voice. You'll be able to notice patterns, challenge your thoughts, and consistently live according to your ideal values. You will become your own advocate. Our work will be together, but your success will be yours.
(423) 403-3956 View (423) 403-3956
Photo of Laurence Welch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Laurence Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Laurence Welch is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Laurence is a relentlessly supportive therapist with more than a decade of teaching mindfulness practices, resulting in a uniquely grounded and compassionate presence. She utilizes a humanist, collaborative approach to assist you in meeting your goals and making desired changes. Outside of work, Laurence enjoys puttering in her garden, concocting treats in her kitchen, and playing the piano poorly. She also takes great pleasure in her excessive collection of books, most of which she has thought about reading.
Laurence Welch is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Laurence is a relentlessly supportive therapist with more than a decade of teaching mindfulness practices, resulting in a uniquely grounded and compassionate presence. She utilizes a humanist, collaborative approach to assist you in meeting your goals and making desired changes. Outside of work, Laurence enjoys puttering in her garden, concocting treats in her kitchen, and playing the piano poorly. She also takes great pleasure in her excessive collection of books, most of which she has thought about reading.
(865) 269-6595 View (865) 269-6595
Photo of Lori Boudreaux, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Lori Boudreaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Life can be difficult to navigate. Many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and gratification from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve contentment and fulfillment in your life.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and gratification from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve contentment and fulfillment in your life.
(865) 426-1424 View (865) 426-1424
Photo of Built to Bond, Inc. Attachment Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Built to Bond, Inc. Attachment Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, BCPC, CTS, CDVC, NCCE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37931
If you are broken and in need of healing from abuse and trauma and/or are trying to parent a "child forgotten" you have come to the right place. Suffering through the aftermath of sexual abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, foster care and extreme neglect often makes it nearly impossible to trust others, which is a necessary starting point for healthy relationship formation. Built to Bond, Inc. is designed to enable you to make sense of your trauma and begin the healing process from a Christian perspective through the "Treat PTSD with PTSD to get PTSD" treatment modality.
If you are broken and in need of healing from abuse and trauma and/or are trying to parent a "child forgotten" you have come to the right place. Suffering through the aftermath of sexual abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, foster care and extreme neglect often makes it nearly impossible to trust others, which is a necessary starting point for healthy relationship formation. Built to Bond, Inc. is designed to enable you to make sense of your trauma and begin the healing process from a Christian perspective through the "Treat PTSD with PTSD to get PTSD" treatment modality.
(865) 685-5895 View (865) 685-5895
Within Holistic Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I help children, teens, young adults, and families with a variety of issues. This can be that you're experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, struggling with communication, ADHD concerns, needing help with poor family dynamics, trauma, and PTSD as well. I help clients overcome these issues by creating a client-centered treatment plan with achievable goals set up for success in their mental health journey.
I help children, teens, young adults, and families with a variety of issues. This can be that you're experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, struggling with communication, ADHD concerns, needing help with poor family dynamics, trauma, and PTSD as well. I help clients overcome these issues by creating a client-centered treatment plan with achievable goals set up for success in their mental health journey.
(865) 346-6572 View (865) 346-6572
Photo of Arianna Boddy, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Arianna Boddy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
I am particularly skilled working alongside pre-adolescents, adolescent, young adult females, and parents of teens, who feel stuck and in the trenches of family dynamics, significant relationships, life circumstances, and/or mental health conditions. Your teen may be desperately trying to find an outlet to channel their feelings. Are they overachievers pouring all their energy into school or sports? Does your teen feel lost, anxious, confused, or indecisive? Perhaps they bottle their anger, cut, or show you their rebellious side.
I am particularly skilled working alongside pre-adolescents, adolescent, young adult females, and parents of teens, who feel stuck and in the trenches of family dynamics, significant relationships, life circumstances, and/or mental health conditions. Your teen may be desperately trying to find an outlet to channel their feelings. Are they overachievers pouring all their energy into school or sports? Does your teen feel lost, anxious, confused, or indecisive? Perhaps they bottle their anger, cut, or show you their rebellious side.
(865) 269-9441 View (865) 269-9441
Photo of Elizabeth Haren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Elizabeth Haren
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Elizabeth Haren is a Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider with over 25 years experience working in the field of mental health. She has experience working with mental health, substance related, and trauma induced issues. She works with adolescent, adult, and senior clients. Her holistic approach to counseling and therapy utilizes mindfulness and strength-based approaches to empower each client and help them use their own talents and strengths to improve their lives in a meaningful way.
Elizabeth Haren is a Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider with over 25 years experience working in the field of mental health. She has experience working with mental health, substance related, and trauma induced issues. She works with adolescent, adult, and senior clients. Her holistic approach to counseling and therapy utilizes mindfulness and strength-based approaches to empower each client and help them use their own talents and strengths to improve their lives in a meaningful way.
(865) 509-8815 View (865) 509-8815
Photo of Dr. A. Nikki Hilton, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Dr. A. Nikki Hilton
Psychologist, PhD, LHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917  (Online Only)
There is nothing more rewarding for me than identifying the strengths in the individuals that I work with &, ultimately, witnessing their transformations. I have specialized training & experience in Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma & grief therapy. If you are grieving, I know that you need to be heard & validated; you need someone willing to be with you in your pain, & who will not attempt to fix the unfixable.
There is nothing more rewarding for me than identifying the strengths in the individuals that I work with &, ultimately, witnessing their transformations. I have specialized training & experience in Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma & grief therapy. If you are grieving, I know that you need to be heard & validated; you need someone willing to be with you in your pain, & who will not attempt to fix the unfixable.
(865) 412-8677 View (865) 412-8677
Photo of Jo P Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Jo P Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
When you are hurting you need someone to talk to who will help you figure out what to do. There are always changes we can make to be less miserable. I particularly enjoy working with couples having marital problems, with teenagers, and with people dealing with grief and loss.
When you are hurting you need someone to talk to who will help you figure out what to do. There are always changes we can make to be less miserable. I particularly enjoy working with couples having marital problems, with teenagers, and with people dealing with grief and loss.
(865) 518-2749 x102 View (865) 518-2749 x102
Brad Jennings, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
Brad has worked win the behavioral healthcare field since 2004. He spent over a decade providing and coordinating co-occurring treatment services for community mental healthcare agency; roles have included crisis clinician, residential and outpatient substance-use treatment provider, group and individual therapist, and program administrator/services coordinator. Though he's worn various hats over the years, Brad feel most at-home when facilitating group and individual therapy, creating and holding a safe space for his clients' journey.
Brad has worked win the behavioral healthcare field since 2004. He spent over a decade providing and coordinating co-occurring treatment services for community mental healthcare agency; roles have included crisis clinician, residential and outpatient substance-use treatment provider, group and individual therapist, and program administrator/services coordinator. Though he's worn various hats over the years, Brad feel most at-home when facilitating group and individual therapy, creating and holding a safe space for his clients' journey.
(865) 351-3884 View (865) 351-3884
Photo of Lindsay Gunther, Marriage & Family Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Lindsay Gunther
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Life is difficult and sometimes we need someone to walk with us through the hurt. I understand! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has a heart for coming alongside those who are hurting and providing a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients. I love working with individuals as well as couples! My goal is to make everyone feel welcome regardless of religion, sexual orientation, or race. I have experience with depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, premarital, grief, family issues and more! We will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan. Christian based therapy available upon request.
Life is difficult and sometimes we need someone to walk with us through the hurt. I understand! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has a heart for coming alongside those who are hurting and providing a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients. I love working with individuals as well as couples! My goal is to make everyone feel welcome regardless of religion, sexual orientation, or race. I have experience with depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, premarital, grief, family issues and more! We will work together to develop an individualized treatment plan. Christian based therapy available upon request.
(865) 999-0368 View (865) 999-0368

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.