Therapists in Port Townsend, WA

Photo of Esther Fredholm Conway, Psychologist in Port Townsend, WA
Esther Fredholm Conway
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
In my 40 years as a psychologist my goal has been to provide the safe nurturing environment that creates a productive client/therapist relationship. I have never forgotten my early experiences in seeking help from a therapist, wondering what it would be like, and if it would really help. I appreciated the understanding and insight I received then, and throughout my life, sometimes with my husband, I have found different kinds of therapy that were helpful to me and to my clients.
In my 40 years as a psychologist my goal has been to provide the safe nurturing environment that creates a productive client/therapist relationship. I have never forgotten my early experiences in seeking help from a therapist, wondering what it would be like, and if it would really help. I appreciated the understanding and insight I received then, and throughout my life, sometimes with my husband, I have found different kinds of therapy that were helpful to me and to my clients.
(360) 301-4564 View (360) 301-4564
Photo of Sara Smithson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
Sara Smithson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It's the most socially appropriate time in modern history to be a bit of a mess, but that doesn't make it easier for most of us. Being intelligent can actually make it harder to adapt to new things outside your frames of reference. Being empathetic can cause you to feel like you're constantly letting others & yourself down. Being unique or outside norms can leave you feeling lonely & questioning yourself. If you tend to hold & hide everything inside, or if you're someone who can't help but dump everything out all over the place, you may be experiencing miscommunication & judgment from others on top of everything.
It's the most socially appropriate time in modern history to be a bit of a mess, but that doesn't make it easier for most of us. Being intelligent can actually make it harder to adapt to new things outside your frames of reference. Being empathetic can cause you to feel like you're constantly letting others & yourself down. Being unique or outside norms can leave you feeling lonely & questioning yourself. If you tend to hold & hide everything inside, or if you're someone who can't help but dump everything out all over the place, you may be experiencing miscommunication & judgment from others on top of everything.
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Photo of Toni Wilhelm, Marriage & Family Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
Toni Wilhelm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I have 26 years experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have also acted as a Clinical Director in educational institutions and in corporate settings, supervising other therapists. I enjoy working with couples, families, and individuals struggling with depression, anxiety and life stage change. My style is open and relational .
I have 26 years experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have also acted as a Clinical Director in educational institutions and in corporate settings, supervising other therapists. I enjoy working with couples, families, and individuals struggling with depression, anxiety and life stage change. My style is open and relational .
(360) 919-0513 View (360) 919-0513
Photo of Sheena Uritz, Counselor in Port Townsend, WA
Sheena Uritz
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
In our fast paced culture that emphasizes productivity over presence, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected. When we experience major transitions in life, encounter loss and grief, experience trauma, enter periods of questioning or struggle with addiction or mental health challenges we can find ourselves feeling untethered and lost. As a counselor, I provide a safe, accepting, respectful and supportive space for individuals and couples to recover a sense of deep connection in their lives. I utilize person-centered approaches that support healthy attachment and attunement.
In our fast paced culture that emphasizes productivity over presence, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected. When we experience major transitions in life, encounter loss and grief, experience trauma, enter periods of questioning or struggle with addiction or mental health challenges we can find ourselves feeling untethered and lost. As a counselor, I provide a safe, accepting, respectful and supportive space for individuals and couples to recover a sense of deep connection in their lives. I utilize person-centered approaches that support healthy attachment and attunement.
(360) 641-7469 View (360) 641-7469
Photo of Inner Wisdom HLC, LLC in Port Townsend, WA
Inner Wisdom HLC, LLC
LMFT
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Are you ready to free yourself from limiting beliefs that contribute to social, emotional, physical issues or behaviors? I would love to work with you, to help you gain back your freedom. What's holding you back? Are you feeling not enough? Is your weight holding you back? Are you anxious in any way or depressed? If you want to succeed in the most important aspects of your life - in relationships, your job and how you feel about yourself, I can help you be truly happy and free you from self-destructive thoughts and behaviors, living a confident, motivated and happier life. I can help you let go of the past that is holding you back.
Are you ready to free yourself from limiting beliefs that contribute to social, emotional, physical issues or behaviors? I would love to work with you, to help you gain back your freedom. What's holding you back? Are you feeling not enough? Is your weight holding you back? Are you anxious in any way or depressed? If you want to succeed in the most important aspects of your life - in relationships, your job and how you feel about yourself, I can help you be truly happy and free you from self-destructive thoughts and behaviors, living a confident, motivated and happier life. I can help you let go of the past that is holding you back.
(360) 821-9901 View (360) 821-9901
Photo of Laila Josephine Ayyoub, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
Laila Josephine Ayyoub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
(458) 207-2062 View (458) 207-2062
Photo of David P Eekhoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
David P Eekhoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
I bring over 20 years of experience to the Presbyterian Counseling Center. I offer a unique opportunity for people who come to me for counseling to become aware of issues about their relationships with others, and also develop a deeper awareness and appreciation of their world and their place in it...a spiritual search. When spirituality and hope meet, many say they experience a transformative change. No matter where you are in your journey, I offer you an experience in which you will be encouraged to take small steps that can make a huge difference. I welcome you to this journey...
I bring over 20 years of experience to the Presbyterian Counseling Center. I offer a unique opportunity for people who come to me for counseling to become aware of issues about their relationships with others, and also develop a deeper awareness and appreciation of their world and their place in it...a spiritual search. When spirituality and hope meet, many say they experience a transformative change. No matter where you are in your journey, I offer you an experience in which you will be encouraged to take small steps that can make a huge difference. I welcome you to this journey...
(360) 328-7354 View (360) 328-7354
Photo of Freida Fenn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
Freida Fenn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I am accepting new clients. I assist Couples, Individuals, Teens and Families. See my website: fenntherapy.com. I provide emotional support, practical communication tools and emotional coping skills. Together, we create a treatment plan for positive change. Unresolved family issues, trauma, stress, couple conflicts, parenting challenges, life transitions and changes in your primary relationships can get you down. You deserve support and help to heal. I create a safe place for you to create the healthy changes you desire. I look forward to meeting you.
I am accepting new clients. I assist Couples, Individuals, Teens and Families. See my website: fenntherapy.com. I provide emotional support, practical communication tools and emotional coping skills. Together, we create a treatment plan for positive change. Unresolved family issues, trauma, stress, couple conflicts, parenting challenges, life transitions and changes in your primary relationships can get you down. You deserve support and help to heal. I create a safe place for you to create the healthy changes you desire. I look forward to meeting you.
(360) 262-4318 View (360) 262-4318
Photo of Ann Emineth Counseling, Counselor in Port Townsend, WA
Ann Emineth Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Relationships are important for our well-being. Relationships can also be very difficult at times. Some relationships are more difficult than others. Whether you are having difficulties with a spouse, partner, boss, or friends, I can help you learn to have better relationships with others. We will work together in finding ways to navigate difficult people and how to leave interactions feeling good. I want to help those that are currently or survived emotional abuse in finding recovery and provide a start to having healthy relationships.
Relationships are important for our well-being. Relationships can also be very difficult at times. Some relationships are more difficult than others. Whether you are having difficulties with a spouse, partner, boss, or friends, I can help you learn to have better relationships with others. We will work together in finding ways to navigate difficult people and how to leave interactions feeling good. I want to help those that are currently or survived emotional abuse in finding recovery and provide a start to having healthy relationships.
(360) 489-6923 View (360) 489-6923
Photo of Melissa S Layer, Counselor in Port Townsend, WA
Melissa S Layer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Can you imagine that it's possible to behold your journey as an opportunity for growth, healing and enriched connections? What would it be like to know that you have the capacity to hold both grief and gratitude? It could be that you have come to a cross-road or are standing on significant thresholds as you face transitions, challenges and decision-making. Maybe grief has cracked you open, or you are struggling with illness and long to discover meaning and balance once again. Perhaps you have an emergent sense that there is “something more” that you are yearning for?
Can you imagine that it's possible to behold your journey as an opportunity for growth, healing and enriched connections? What would it be like to know that you have the capacity to hold both grief and gratitude? It could be that you have come to a cross-road or are standing on significant thresholds as you face transitions, challenges and decision-making. Maybe grief has cracked you open, or you are struggling with illness and long to discover meaning and balance once again. Perhaps you have an emergent sense that there is “something more” that you are yearning for?
(360) 205-9995 View (360) 205-9995
Photo of Mark Saran, Counselor in Port Townsend, WA
Mark Saran
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
My practice is currently full. I have worked intensively with adolescents, adults, and their families for over 30 years. I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, relationship, parenting issues, women's empowerment, and challenges including depression and anxiety. Specific foci/areas of interest include family dynamics, adolescent rebellion, strategies for success in school, ADD diagnosis and treatment plans and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I spent two decades working with pregnant and parenting teens, and teaching childbirth education at my local hospital.
My practice is currently full. I have worked intensively with adolescents, adults, and their families for over 30 years. I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, relationship, parenting issues, women's empowerment, and challenges including depression and anxiety. Specific foci/areas of interest include family dynamics, adolescent rebellion, strategies for success in school, ADD diagnosis and treatment plans and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I spent two decades working with pregnant and parenting teens, and teaching childbirth education at my local hospital.
(360) 382-4287 View (360) 382-4287
Photo of Toni Wilhelm, Marriage & Family Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
Toni Wilhelm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I am experienced in and enjoy working with individual, couples, families and children. Despite the sense of overwhelm, I believe that feeling stuck, anxious and unhappy is often an opportunity for growth and change. Relationship issues, anxiety, depression, illness, aging and family problems are all part of life, and I feel fortunate in being able to help people through these issues.
I am experienced in and enjoy working with individual, couples, families and children. Despite the sense of overwhelm, I believe that feeling stuck, anxious and unhappy is often an opportunity for growth and change. Relationship issues, anxiety, depression, illness, aging and family problems are all part of life, and I feel fortunate in being able to help people through these issues.
(360) 328-7181 View (360) 328-7181
Pamela Bolin Street
Counselor, PhD, MSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
My practice is oriented toward adults going through transitions. I also work with older adults and with veterans. My practice is located in Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula in western Washington State.
My practice is oriented toward adults going through transitions. I also work with older adults and with veterans. My practice is located in Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula in western Washington State.
(360) 302-4834 View (360) 302-4834
Photo of Kelley Swanstrom, Counselor in Port Townsend, WA
Kelley Swanstrom
Counselor, MAC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
*Limited Spaces Available* Do you feel disappointed, drained of energy, or lonely? Have you recently faced a transition and are struggling to get your life back on a rewarding path? Do burdensome emotions or racing thoughts interrupt you throughout your day? Are you feeling disconnected or unsatisfied in your relationships? Do you wish you could live a calmer more connected life and still be true to yourself? Would you like to achieve more, grow more, and feel more alive? Depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief can cause ongoing pain that takes you to places you never meant to go.
*Limited Spaces Available* Do you feel disappointed, drained of energy, or lonely? Have you recently faced a transition and are struggling to get your life back on a rewarding path? Do burdensome emotions or racing thoughts interrupt you throughout your day? Are you feeling disconnected or unsatisfied in your relationships? Do you wish you could live a calmer more connected life and still be true to yourself? Would you like to achieve more, grow more, and feel more alive? Depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief can cause ongoing pain that takes you to places you never meant to go.
(360) 302-4969 View (360) 302-4969
Photo of Vicki Fuller Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
Vicki Fuller Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
My Interest is to work side by side with you in a journey of self discovery. These are trying times to navigate and a safe and supportive environment is essential for any of us to achieve our optimal way of being. You and I collaborate over what is most useful, helpful and relevant to actualize your needs and goals whether that's in the development of healthier more fulfilling relationships with others, recovering from trauma or seeking your heart's desire.
My Interest is to work side by side with you in a journey of self discovery. These are trying times to navigate and a safe and supportive environment is essential for any of us to achieve our optimal way of being. You and I collaborate over what is most useful, helpful and relevant to actualize your needs and goals whether that's in the development of healthier more fulfilling relationships with others, recovering from trauma or seeking your heart's desire.
(360) 996-1741 View (360) 996-1741
Photo of Sadie Bingham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
Sadie Bingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
Is anxiety, overwhelm & past trauma making you feel like the walls are caving in? You’ve done everything “right” in life, only to realize that hasn’t made life any easier. Maybe you are one of those high achievers who succeeds at everything or a people-pleaser terrified of confrontation. Either way – you feel out of control & ashamed because - why can’t you figure this mental health stuff out? On top of all this, you are at a time of great transition, change & growth. Learning to be an adult in a scary & unpredictable world can feel very lonely & crushing. Especially a world that can feel like it’s going off the rails.
Is anxiety, overwhelm & past trauma making you feel like the walls are caving in? You’ve done everything “right” in life, only to realize that hasn’t made life any easier. Maybe you are one of those high achievers who succeeds at everything or a people-pleaser terrified of confrontation. Either way – you feel out of control & ashamed because - why can’t you figure this mental health stuff out? On top of all this, you are at a time of great transition, change & growth. Learning to be an adult in a scary & unpredictable world can feel very lonely & crushing. Especially a world that can feel like it’s going off the rails.
(253) 649-2790 View (253) 649-2790
Photo of Andrea Knutson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
Andrea Knutson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
(360) 585-4790 View (360) 585-4790
Photo of Intervention NW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Port Townsend, WA
Intervention NW
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, AAS, SUDP
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I am writing to you with a profound passion for helping individuals embark on their transformative journey towards recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. My commitment to fostering positive change, coupled with a wealth of experience and a genuine empathy for those facing the challenges of addiction, makes me the ideal choice for your counseling needs. As a dedicated drug and alcohol counselor, my primary goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the complexities of your journey. I bring a comprehensive understanding of addiction, drawing from both academic knowledge and years of hands-on experience.
I am writing to you with a profound passion for helping individuals embark on their transformative journey towards recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. My commitment to fostering positive change, coupled with a wealth of experience and a genuine empathy for those facing the challenges of addiction, makes me the ideal choice for your counseling needs. As a dedicated drug and alcohol counselor, my primary goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the complexities of your journey. I bring a comprehensive understanding of addiction, drawing from both academic knowledge and years of hands-on experience.
(360) 615-2412 View (360) 615-2412
Photo of Jo Hadlock-King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Port Townsend, WA
Jo Hadlock-King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
For 30+ years I have worked with adults seeking relief from depression, anxiety, relationship strains, loss, addiction. For all my clients, healing is integral: we attend to troubling emotions, patterns of thinking, body sensations and spirit. My study of biodynamic craniosacral therapy, a gentle touch therapy, confirmed for me that within each of us there is inherent health. We learn to listen and align with this health, building on already existing resources, creating a new trusting connection and discovering new skills.
For 30+ years I have worked with adults seeking relief from depression, anxiety, relationship strains, loss, addiction. For all my clients, healing is integral: we attend to troubling emotions, patterns of thinking, body sensations and spirit. My study of biodynamic craniosacral therapy, a gentle touch therapy, confirmed for me that within each of us there is inherent health. We learn to listen and align with this health, building on already existing resources, creating a new trusting connection and discovering new skills.
(425) 610-8936 View (425) 610-8936
Photo of Claire Maria Chambers, Counselor in Port Townsend, WA
Claire Maria Chambers
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Life is a meaning-filled adventure. But encountering meaningful change can be painful as often as it can be joyful. Each one of us struggles to find integration between challenging problems and fulfilment. Each one of us also holds the tools for our own healing. Your unique story is about learning to be fully you in the reality of this living, breathing world. You can choose to become more interconnected, more fully alive, and more free. With a background in theatre, drama, and literature, I work with children, teens, and adults to uncover creative potential in our own healing, strengthen relationships, and discover our stories.
Life is a meaning-filled adventure. But encountering meaningful change can be painful as often as it can be joyful. Each one of us struggles to find integration between challenging problems and fulfilment. Each one of us also holds the tools for our own healing. Your unique story is about learning to be fully you in the reality of this living, breathing world. You can choose to become more interconnected, more fully alive, and more free. With a background in theatre, drama, and literature, I work with children, teens, and adults to uncover creative potential in our own healing, strengthen relationships, and discover our stories.
(360) 854-3302 View (360) 854-3302

See more therapy options for Port Townsend

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Port Townsend, WA

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Port Townsend, WA who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
92% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Self Esteem
77% Grief
63% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
72% Premera
72% Regence

How Therapists in Port Townsend, WA see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
21% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Port Townsend?

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.