Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Megan Oakes, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Megan Oakes
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
So, you’ve made the choice to look for a therapist, but the options out there are vast and overwhelming. You’re looking for someone who is real; a therapist that isn’t just knowledgeable but has lived a life full of experiences where they too have faced life’s challenges head-on. You're hoping to find someone who is relatable and down to earth; someone who is just as human as you are. Hi, my name is Megan, and I’m really glad you’re here.
So, you’ve made the choice to look for a therapist, but the options out there are vast and overwhelming. You’re looking for someone who is real; a therapist that isn’t just knowledgeable but has lived a life full of experiences where they too have faced life’s challenges head-on. You're hoping to find someone who is relatable and down to earth; someone who is just as human as you are. Hi, my name is Megan, and I’m really glad you’re here.
(336) 502-8904 View (336) 502-8904
Photo of New Life Counseling Center, PLLC, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Winston Salem, NC
New Life Counseling Center, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
New Life Counseling Center offers exceptional therapy services to residents of the Triad and surrounding areas. We are a private, group practice featuring therapists who specialize in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. It is our goal to retain only the best and most professional therapists to ensure that each and every client is treated with respect and care! It's our shared mission to provide top-notch mental health services available in a pleasant, professional setting. We take the extra time to learn about you so that we can match you up with the therapist who will be the best fit for your needs.
New Life Counseling Center offers exceptional therapy services to residents of the Triad and surrounding areas. We are a private, group practice featuring therapists who specialize in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. It is our goal to retain only the best and most professional therapists to ensure that each and every client is treated with respect and care! It's our shared mission to provide top-notch mental health services available in a pleasant, professional setting. We take the extra time to learn about you so that we can match you up with the therapist who will be the best fit for your needs.
(336) 439-3376 View (336) 439-3376
Photo of Lauren Byrd, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Lauren Byrd
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
The journey to healing is often difficult and having support along the way is necessary. Many of us have been given messages that we need to be strong and brave, making it hard to ask for help. I am here to help you see that you are strong, and you are brave, but it is also okay to ask for help.
The journey to healing is often difficult and having support along the way is necessary. Many of us have been given messages that we need to be strong and brave, making it hard to ask for help. I am here to help you see that you are strong, and you are brave, but it is also okay to ask for help.
(336) 800-8248 View (336) 800-8248
Photo of New Life Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
New Life Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Accepting new clients! New Life Counseling Center is founded on the shared principles that every client deserves a therapist who cares about them and their experience: Someone who has the skills and insight to make a real difference. We believe that people aren’t looking for a paid friend, but a knowledgeable professional to connect with you and help you heal. Being able to sit with a caring person who has the skills, experience and objectivity to help guide you through the confusion and pain that can sometimes seem so overwhelming, can be life changing The warmth of caring, unconditional acceptance has healing power in your life!
Accepting new clients! New Life Counseling Center is founded on the shared principles that every client deserves a therapist who cares about them and their experience: Someone who has the skills and insight to make a real difference. We believe that people aren’t looking for a paid friend, but a knowledgeable professional to connect with you and help you heal. Being able to sit with a caring person who has the skills, experience and objectivity to help guide you through the confusion and pain that can sometimes seem so overwhelming, can be life changing The warmth of caring, unconditional acceptance has healing power in your life!
(336) 628-8522 View (336) 628-8522
Photo of Claudia Davies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Claudia Davies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27107  (Online Only)
Hello there and welcome to my safe space. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I have several years of clinical experience working with individuals, families and groups of various ages, race, nationalities, and ethnicities. I have experience working in outpatient, psychiatric behavioral health, and hospice settings. Therapy is a partnership, and as partners, together, we will determine what therapeutic intervention(s) is best for you. My goal is to use what I know, to do what I can, to help you navigate and cope with life in whatever capacity that may look like for you.
Hello there and welcome to my safe space. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I have several years of clinical experience working with individuals, families and groups of various ages, race, nationalities, and ethnicities. I have experience working in outpatient, psychiatric behavioral health, and hospice settings. Therapy is a partnership, and as partners, together, we will determine what therapeutic intervention(s) is best for you. My goal is to use what I know, to do what I can, to help you navigate and cope with life in whatever capacity that may look like for you.
(336) 439-8786 View (336) 439-8786
Photo of Ellie Mental Health-Winston Salem, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Ellie Mental Health-Winston Salem
Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Ellie Mental Health in Winston Salem, NC isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
Ellie Mental Health in Winston Salem, NC isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
(336) 395-5316 View (336) 395-5316
Photo of Cindy Brown Stiltner, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Cindy Brown Stiltner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Unexpected loss, challenging situations, employment, parenting, illness-all of which can cause significant stress. A single stressful event or series of events could trigger the onset of depression or anxiety at any point in your life, even years after the event(s) have occurred. While we certainly cannot control the challenges life throws our way, we can control what we do about them. We have the right to use those challenges to learn and strengthen ourselves…to become a better version of ourselves.
Unexpected loss, challenging situations, employment, parenting, illness-all of which can cause significant stress. A single stressful event or series of events could trigger the onset of depression or anxiety at any point in your life, even years after the event(s) have occurred. While we certainly cannot control the challenges life throws our way, we can control what we do about them. We have the right to use those challenges to learn and strengthen ourselves…to become a better version of ourselves.
(336) 203-9643 View (336) 203-9643
Photo of Chaka Burnett, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Chaka Burnett
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Hello - I’m glad our paths have crossed! My name is Chaka (yes, like Chaka Khan), and my goal is to work with you to overcome obstacles and issues that are interfering with your progress and passion in life. Resolving conflict, repairing relationships, healing from past trauma, building self-esteem, reversing dysfunctional patterns all assist in reaching this goal. I truly believe that, although people get hurt in relationships, it is also through relationships that people can heal. Change is not easy, but it is attainable and sustainable. As you embark on your healing journey, I will be here to see you through it.
Hello - I’m glad our paths have crossed! My name is Chaka (yes, like Chaka Khan), and my goal is to work with you to overcome obstacles and issues that are interfering with your progress and passion in life. Resolving conflict, repairing relationships, healing from past trauma, building self-esteem, reversing dysfunctional patterns all assist in reaching this goal. I truly believe that, although people get hurt in relationships, it is also through relationships that people can heal. Change is not easy, but it is attainable and sustainable. As you embark on your healing journey, I will be here to see you through it.
(336) 742-1171 View (336) 742-1171
Photo of Rhonda Ferrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Rhonda Ferrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27107  (Online Only)
NOTE: Video Counseling is like a house call, comfortable and convenient. Just go to RhondaFerrellCounseling.com and self-schedule on our online calendar or call 336-939-8043. I offer compassionate counseling with individuals who are seeking to resolve their painful histories and create a fulfilling life. When we bring your strengths, creativity and motivation together with my professional experience and diverse strategies, we can accomplish a lot in brief solution focused counseling. Maybe it's about un-becoming everything that isn't really you so you can be who you were meant to be in the first place!
NOTE: Video Counseling is like a house call, comfortable and convenient. Just go to RhondaFerrellCounseling.com and self-schedule on our online calendar or call 336-939-8043. I offer compassionate counseling with individuals who are seeking to resolve their painful histories and create a fulfilling life. When we bring your strengths, creativity and motivation together with my professional experience and diverse strategies, we can accomplish a lot in brief solution focused counseling. Maybe it's about un-becoming everything that isn't really you so you can be who you were meant to be in the first place!
(336) 939-8043 View (336) 939-8043
Photo of Dr. Ricardo Marquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Dr. Ricardo Marquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, PhD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I believe in the infinite possibilities of each human being, I believe in the sacredness of each life, I believe in new beginnings, in the dreams and desires that we all carry to be loved and respected for who we are. I believe that the past does not determine our lives and that crises and conflicts are sources of transformation. These are some of the beliefs that guide my therapeutic practice. The strengthening of couple relationships, parenting skills, communication issues and conflict management have been areas in which I have worked personally and in groups in various cultural environments.
I believe in the infinite possibilities of each human being, I believe in the sacredness of each life, I believe in new beginnings, in the dreams and desires that we all carry to be loved and respected for who we are. I believe that the past does not determine our lives and that crises and conflicts are sources of transformation. These are some of the beliefs that guide my therapeutic practice. The strengthening of couple relationships, parenting skills, communication issues and conflict management have been areas in which I have worked personally and in groups in various cultural environments.
(336) 489-4528 View (336) 489-4528
Photo of Sarah Carver, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Sarah Carver
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Therapy and counseling move at the speed of trust. I believe this phrase captures the core of the therapeutic relationship: meeting clients where they are and moving at their pace. I will listen non-judgmentally and compassionately to what is said and not said by my clients. I provide a safe and welcoming space that fosters trust, where clients feel accepted, heard, understood, and respected. In this collaborative and supportive environment, we can work together to achieve your goals while processing emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences.
Therapy and counseling move at the speed of trust. I believe this phrase captures the core of the therapeutic relationship: meeting clients where they are and moving at their pace. I will listen non-judgmentally and compassionately to what is said and not said by my clients. I provide a safe and welcoming space that fosters trust, where clients feel accepted, heard, understood, and respected. In this collaborative and supportive environment, we can work together to achieve your goals while processing emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and experiences.
(336) 203-9421 View (336) 203-9421
Photo of Carol Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Carol Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
You may be experiencing anxious worries, feelings of depression, chronic pain, concerns about parenting, stress-eating, conflicts or uncertainty at work or home, or the pain and upheaval of a loss. My commitment is to creating a health-focussed solution to your problems. I provide a calm, compassionate, and thoughtful presence in order to help you achieve a greater sense of peace and acceptance, as well as a greater sense of control over the direction of your life. I welcome phone and email inquiries to answer any questions you may have about my practice and my approach to achieving greater emotional wellness.
You may be experiencing anxious worries, feelings of depression, chronic pain, concerns about parenting, stress-eating, conflicts or uncertainty at work or home, or the pain and upheaval of a loss. My commitment is to creating a health-focussed solution to your problems. I provide a calm, compassionate, and thoughtful presence in order to help you achieve a greater sense of peace and acceptance, as well as a greater sense of control over the direction of your life. I welcome phone and email inquiries to answer any questions you may have about my practice and my approach to achieving greater emotional wellness.
(336) 685-1947 View (336) 685-1947
Photo of illumii | Pathfinding Group, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
illumii | Pathfinding Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
ILLUMII’s team of experts works together to help children, teens and adults in a coordinated, caring and personalized way to offer: General Educational Consultations | Boarding School/College/Graduate School Planning | Counseling/Therapy | Executive Function Coaching | Psychological Testing | Educational Evaluations for: Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, ADHD, Kindergarten Readiness, Giftedness, Autism, Accommodations on ACT/SAT/GRE/MCAT/LSAT/GMAT.
ILLUMII’s team of experts works together to help children, teens and adults in a coordinated, caring and personalized way to offer: General Educational Consultations | Boarding School/College/Graduate School Planning | Counseling/Therapy | Executive Function Coaching | Psychological Testing | Educational Evaluations for: Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, ADHD, Kindergarten Readiness, Giftedness, Autism, Accommodations on ACT/SAT/GRE/MCAT/LSAT/GMAT.
(336) 551-8384 View (336) 551-8384
Photo of Katherine Myers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Katherine Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Maybe you have waited a long time to seek help and suffered in silence. Perhaps you've become accustomed to this discomfort or a pain. Or maybe you desire change through seeking understanding and want a greater sense of wellbeing. Therapy may help you with this process of personal growth and healing. Whether you have a crisis, traumatic experience, significant life challenge or are wanting to experience greater fulfillment therapy may be for you.
Maybe you have waited a long time to seek help and suffered in silence. Perhaps you've become accustomed to this discomfort or a pain. Or maybe you desire change through seeking understanding and want a greater sense of wellbeing. Therapy may help you with this process of personal growth and healing. Whether you have a crisis, traumatic experience, significant life challenge or are wanting to experience greater fulfillment therapy may be for you.
(336) 203-0760 View (336) 203-0760
Photo of Tiffany Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Tiffany Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. I have worked with adults, adolescents, and children in various settings through-out the past four years. I am open to any individual. Whether that individual needs attentive, regular sessions or an individual looking for support in a current circumstance. Everyone has to right to excellence care in a complete judgement free zone and it is my mission to provide that.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. I have worked with adults, adolescents, and children in various settings through-out the past four years. I am open to any individual. Whether that individual needs attentive, regular sessions or an individual looking for support in a current circumstance. Everyone has to right to excellence care in a complete judgement free zone and it is my mission to provide that.
(828) 332-5855 View (828) 332-5855
Photo of Allyson Shields, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Allyson Shields
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Allyson Shields is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with more than 9 years of experience working with adults and seniors. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, divorce-related stress, relationships, trauma, and PTSD. With Allyson, clients should expect freedom and openness in a safe environment.
Allyson Shields is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with more than 9 years of experience working with adults and seniors. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, divorce-related stress, relationships, trauma, and PTSD. With Allyson, clients should expect freedom and openness in a safe environment.
(336) 936-5710 View (336) 936-5710
Photo of Sara Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Sara Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Sara Murphy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate and driven about helping adults address their unique challenges, reach therapeutic personal goals, and live healthier and happier lives. Sara has a strong background in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, stress management, ADHD, anger management, and major life transitions. Sara completed her Master's degree in Social Work at North Carolina State University and received her Bachelor's degree in Social Work at Appalachian State University.
Sara Murphy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate and driven about helping adults address their unique challenges, reach therapeutic personal goals, and live healthier and happier lives. Sara has a strong background in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, stress management, ADHD, anger management, and major life transitions. Sara completed her Master's degree in Social Work at North Carolina State University and received her Bachelor's degree in Social Work at Appalachian State University.
(336) 948-8345 View (336) 948-8345
Photo of Adrienne Reich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Adrienne Reich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I am a licensed professional counselor as well as a licensed clinical addictions specialist. I have over twenty years of counseling experience conducting individual, family, and couples counseling. I strive to create an atmosphere that feels safe for people to talk openly about their stories and emotions and help people determine what is best for them to help their current situation.
I am a licensed professional counselor as well as a licensed clinical addictions specialist. I have over twenty years of counseling experience conducting individual, family, and couples counseling. I strive to create an atmosphere that feels safe for people to talk openly about their stories and emotions and help people determine what is best for them to help their current situation.
(336) 939-0712 View (336) 939-0712
Photo of Rosalinda Thomas, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Rosalinda Thomas
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, CCS, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
My goal is to help you achieve emotional wellness. A lot of times the problems we struggle with are based on underlying conditions not addressed, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders. Underlying problems that may lead to risky behaviors, such as alcohol or drug use. Maybe there is no substance use, but other behaviors that are concerning to you or others. Let me work with you in redirecting negative thoughts, behaviors and actions.
My goal is to help you achieve emotional wellness. A lot of times the problems we struggle with are based on underlying conditions not addressed, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders. Underlying problems that may lead to risky behaviors, such as alcohol or drug use. Maybe there is no substance use, but other behaviors that are concerning to you or others. Let me work with you in redirecting negative thoughts, behaviors and actions.
(336) 396-7560 View (336) 396-7560
Photo of Cathey Floyd, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Cathey Floyd
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
Waitlist for new clients
One of my favorite quotes by Melody Beattie conveys the essence of our counseling relationship: “Learn to listen to your inner voice. Listen to your heart. It’s your connection to God, to people, to the universe, and to yourself." My goal is to create a safe and positive environment allowing you an opportunity to explore and grow in self-awareness as you learn more about how to identify new strategies and cope with your circumstances in healthy ways. I believe in the power of individuals to change as they work toward common goals with their therapist, drawing upon person-centered and cognitive behavioral approaches.
One of my favorite quotes by Melody Beattie conveys the essence of our counseling relationship: “Learn to listen to your inner voice. Listen to your heart. It’s your connection to God, to people, to the universe, and to yourself." My goal is to create a safe and positive environment allowing you an opportunity to explore and grow in self-awareness as you learn more about how to identify new strategies and cope with your circumstances in healthy ways. I believe in the power of individuals to change as they work toward common goals with their therapist, drawing upon person-centered and cognitive behavioral approaches.
(336) 815-5856 x711 View (336) 815-5856 x711

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

500+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Winston Salem, NC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
77% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
72% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Aetna
48% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Winston Salem, NC see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Winston Salem?

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.