Therapists in Edmonds, WA

Photo of Kelly Druin Sievertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Kelly Druin Sievertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Life's stressors can be overwhelming. Therapy shows us new ways of being and engaging through practicing adaptive skills and mindfulness. I help my clients uncover connections between past experiences that shape their current ways of coping. This leads to the ability to recognize inner strengths, identify and embrace discomfort, and cultivate self-compassion to find peace and true connection. With empathetic listening in a safe environment, I strive to be my client’s ally. I use cognitive and somatic modalities to connect mind and body and tailor my approach to your needs, even using humor when appropriate!
Life's stressors can be overwhelming. Therapy shows us new ways of being and engaging through practicing adaptive skills and mindfulness. I help my clients uncover connections between past experiences that shape their current ways of coping. This leads to the ability to recognize inner strengths, identify and embrace discomfort, and cultivate self-compassion to find peace and true connection. With empathetic listening in a safe environment, I strive to be my client’s ally. I use cognitive and somatic modalities to connect mind and body and tailor my approach to your needs, even using humor when appropriate!
(206) 202-9974 View (206) 202-9974
Photo of Ken Nichols-Hoppe, Psychologist in Edmonds, WA
Ken Nichols-Hoppe
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in helping people work toward a better life. When working with individuals or couples, teens or elders, my style is supportive yet direct. My mission is to help my clients (both individuals and couples) develop life skills and solve problems –- thereby improving their lives and their relationships. We can best accomplish this via a nurturing, active, and goal-oriented counseling process. As we develop a trusting and collaborative relationship, I will help you work through many issues, including relationship and marital problems, anxiety, depression and anger - as well as personality patterns and work-related issues.
I specialize in helping people work toward a better life. When working with individuals or couples, teens or elders, my style is supportive yet direct. My mission is to help my clients (both individuals and couples) develop life skills and solve problems –- thereby improving their lives and their relationships. We can best accomplish this via a nurturing, active, and goal-oriented counseling process. As we develop a trusting and collaborative relationship, I will help you work through many issues, including relationship and marital problems, anxiety, depression and anger - as well as personality patterns and work-related issues.
(425) 780-5994 View (425) 780-5994
Photo of Samuel E Gales, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Samuel E Gales
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
Every person has a story that influences the thoughts and feelings they currently experience. The past cannot be changed, but the future has yet to be written. By seeking therapy, you are taking an important step in bringing about the change that produces healing. My approach to therapy is tailored to fit the unique needs of the individual, using evidence-based practices to bring hope to those who are looking to build a life with meaning and purpose.
Every person has a story that influences the thoughts and feelings they currently experience. The past cannot be changed, but the future has yet to be written. By seeking therapy, you are taking an important step in bringing about the change that produces healing. My approach to therapy is tailored to fit the unique needs of the individual, using evidence-based practices to bring hope to those who are looking to build a life with meaning and purpose.
(425) 403-7203 View (425) 403-7203
Photo of Marieka Miller & The Evolved Athlete's Institute , Psychologist in Edmonds, WA
Marieka Miller & The Evolved Athlete's Institute
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
My professional experience, academic emphasis, and personal passion aims at helping clients experience their full potential. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I also work as a performance consultant for competitive athletes and coaches using mental skills training. I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University and have fifteen years of clinical experience in private practice throughout western Washington.
My professional experience, academic emphasis, and personal passion aims at helping clients experience their full potential. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I also work as a performance consultant for competitive athletes and coaches using mental skills training. I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University and have fifteen years of clinical experience in private practice throughout western Washington.
(206) 693-4815 View (206) 693-4815
Photo of Brooksi Bottari, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Brooksi Bottari
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CETP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a counselor licensed in Washington state with 15 years of pre and post graduate experience. I am open and believe in unconditional acceptance and non-judgement. I am a good fit for you if you're interested in finding solutions and feeling empowered to heal your past and step into your personal power. I believe we are all capable of leading lives free from the layers of programming and trauma virus that has been downloaded into our system.
Hi! I am a counselor licensed in Washington state with 15 years of pre and post graduate experience. I am open and believe in unconditional acceptance and non-judgement. I am a good fit for you if you're interested in finding solutions and feeling empowered to heal your past and step into your personal power. I believe we are all capable of leading lives free from the layers of programming and trauma virus that has been downloaded into our system.
(425) 409-5068 View (425) 409-5068
Photo of Collin Mcfadden, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Collin Mcfadden
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I work well with patients suffering from symptoms that they feel no one has the capability to treat. Many of my patients come to me after they have been to other therapists and have not found relief. My patients come to me for a psychotherapeutic experience different from the usual. The patients who are a good fit for my services are sensitive, intuitive, creative, and have had difficulty reconciling their personality with their personal experiences and the world around them. I am especially skilled at working with acute mental health issues. I have worked at Harborview Medical Center and Fairfax Behavioral Health.
I work well with patients suffering from symptoms that they feel no one has the capability to treat. Many of my patients come to me after they have been to other therapists and have not found relief. My patients come to me for a psychotherapeutic experience different from the usual. The patients who are a good fit for my services are sensitive, intuitive, creative, and have had difficulty reconciling their personality with their personal experiences and the world around them. I am especially skilled at working with acute mental health issues. I have worked at Harborview Medical Center and Fairfax Behavioral Health.
(206) 535-1431 View (206) 535-1431
Photo of Ivko Pejovic, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Ivko Pejovic
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
I have over 20 years of experience working as a mental health counselor in the State of Washington. My areas of expertise include individual, couple, and family therapy. My specialties are PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Also, I have been facilitating different groups for 20 years and a DBT group for 9 years. All of the clients who have committed themself to this DBT class have learned some specific DBT skills that they can apply in their daily lives when they feel depressed or anxious.
I have over 20 years of experience working as a mental health counselor in the State of Washington. My areas of expertise include individual, couple, and family therapy. My specialties are PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Also, I have been facilitating different groups for 20 years and a DBT group for 9 years. All of the clients who have committed themself to this DBT class have learned some specific DBT skills that they can apply in their daily lives when they feel depressed or anxious.
(206) 207-8707 View (206) 207-8707
Photo of Bluestone Psychological Services, LLC, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Bluestone Psychological Services, LLC
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
Find us at: www.BluestonePS.com. At Bluestone you have access to a group of independent, private practitioners who offer a wide variety of services so you can get the type of help you need in one location. Each of us has many years of experience and advanced training within our specialty areas so you know you or your loved one are working with someone who is highly skilled and can help facilitate reaching your goals.
Find us at: www.BluestonePS.com. At Bluestone you have access to a group of independent, private practitioners who offer a wide variety of services so you can get the type of help you need in one location. Each of us has many years of experience and advanced training within our specialty areas so you know you or your loved one are working with someone who is highly skilled and can help facilitate reaching your goals.
(425) 385-0106 View (425) 385-0106
Photo of Elissa Dahl, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Elissa Dahl
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate who is passionate about helping people access their own inner wisdom to create more peaceful and fulfilling relationships with their bodies and minds. I approach therapy from a person-centered, strengths-based and bio-psycho-social-spiritual perspective that is grounded in social justice, Health at Every Size®, and intersectional feminism. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative journey, acknowledging that you are the expert of you and you have unique strengths that have helped you navigate the world.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate who is passionate about helping people access their own inner wisdom to create more peaceful and fulfilling relationships with their bodies and minds. I approach therapy from a person-centered, strengths-based and bio-psycho-social-spiritual perspective that is grounded in social justice, Health at Every Size®, and intersectional feminism. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative journey, acknowledging that you are the expert of you and you have unique strengths that have helped you navigate the world.
(206) 207-9301 View (206) 207-9301
Photo of Katie Wilson, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Katie Wilson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I am a deep believer in the process of change. I have seen and experienced the fruit of the work of change and healing that arises as one pursues the process of therapy. I believe that through the power of new relational experiences, both with ourselves and with another, we get to change how we are in the world and how our experiences impact us. I work well with clients from a variety of backgrounds and ages. I have done extensive work with eating and body issues, including working in residential facilities and higher levels of care. I work to help you bring meaningful change to your daily life.
I am a deep believer in the process of change. I have seen and experienced the fruit of the work of change and healing that arises as one pursues the process of therapy. I believe that through the power of new relational experiences, both with ourselves and with another, we get to change how we are in the world and how our experiences impact us. I work well with clients from a variety of backgrounds and ages. I have done extensive work with eating and body issues, including working in residential facilities and higher levels of care. I work to help you bring meaningful change to your daily life.
(425) 842-7783 View (425) 842-7783
Photo of Leslie Fleming, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Leslie Fleming
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a unique, holistic approach to transformational healing and growth through a weaving of shamanism, psychotherapy, and coaching. I am direct, compassionate, and intuitive in working with clients, offering deep integrity, fortitude, and over 3 decades of shamanic practice supporting journeys of healing, personal mastery, and authenticity. The transformational work of embodying who you truly are and why you are here is a beautiful, challenging journey of embracing and integrating all of who you are with deep compassion and fierce love. A journey I invite you to take and am honored to support.
I offer a unique, holistic approach to transformational healing and growth through a weaving of shamanism, psychotherapy, and coaching. I am direct, compassionate, and intuitive in working with clients, offering deep integrity, fortitude, and over 3 decades of shamanic practice supporting journeys of healing, personal mastery, and authenticity. The transformational work of embodying who you truly are and why you are here is a beautiful, challenging journey of embracing and integrating all of who you are with deep compassion and fierce love. A journey I invite you to take and am honored to support.
(206) 745-6238 View (206) 745-6238
Photo of Jamie Boulding-Bridges, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Jamie Boulding-Bridges
Counselor, LPC, CST, FAC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I have trained with The Gottman institute and integrate their methods through an emotionally focused lens when working with couples. While I openly welcome all couples, I have additional experience and special insight working with same sex couples.
I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I have trained with The Gottman institute and integrate their methods through an emotionally focused lens when working with couples. While I openly welcome all couples, I have additional experience and special insight working with same sex couples.
(425) 414-7616 View (425) 414-7616
Photo of Laura Edelstein, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Laura Edelstein
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MAC, CDP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I love working with a wide range of people from young adults to seniors, and work with individuals, couples and families. I am LGBTQIA friendly and love working with diverse populations. I have had various jobs in helping professions for almost twenty years, and since 2012 have counseled adults, families and couples. I love seeing people have renewed hope and vitality in their lives.
I love working with a wide range of people from young adults to seniors, and work with individuals, couples and families. I am LGBTQIA friendly and love working with diverse populations. I have had various jobs in helping professions for almost twenty years, and since 2012 have counseled adults, families and couples. I love seeing people have renewed hope and vitality in their lives.
(425) 341-4033 View (425) 341-4033
Photo of Henry Chau in Edmonds, WA
Henry Chau
BS
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
After many years of ignoring my desire to be in the counseling field, I am humbled and excited to be in a profession where I can make contributions towards a client’s journey as they pursue healing, understanding, and self-discovery.  Life can certainly have many challenges and these circumstances may cause stress, anxiety, fear, pain, grief, discomfort, …etc.  Asking for help in these difficult times requires a lot of courage due to the risks of being vulnerable and I am honored to join you in your journey.
After many years of ignoring my desire to be in the counseling field, I am humbled and excited to be in a profession where I can make contributions towards a client’s journey as they pursue healing, understanding, and self-discovery.  Life can certainly have many challenges and these circumstances may cause stress, anxiety, fear, pain, grief, discomfort, …etc.  Asking for help in these difficult times requires a lot of courage due to the risks of being vulnerable and I am honored to join you in your journey.
(425) 600-9164 x122 View (425) 600-9164 x122
Photo of Balanced Living Therapy, LLC, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Balanced Living Therapy, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
My name is Maggie (Gigi) Ishaq. I am the owner and one of the many therapists here at Balanced Living Therapy. We are a Behavioral Health Agency offering Co-Occurring Services; Mental Health & Substance Use Counseling. We recognize that finding a therapist is a very personal and individual choice. Please visit our website to learn more about us. We are happy to help you find the best fit! Each therapist will offer compassion, understanding, and empathy. We are respectful and non-judgmental. We believe that each person has core value as a human being. Our Interns offer a reduced out of pocket rate or accept our Medicaid plans.
My name is Maggie (Gigi) Ishaq. I am the owner and one of the many therapists here at Balanced Living Therapy. We are a Behavioral Health Agency offering Co-Occurring Services; Mental Health & Substance Use Counseling. We recognize that finding a therapist is a very personal and individual choice. Please visit our website to learn more about us. We are happy to help you find the best fit! Each therapist will offer compassion, understanding, and empathy. We are respectful and non-judgmental. We believe that each person has core value as a human being. Our Interns offer a reduced out of pocket rate or accept our Medicaid plans.
(425) 284-9536 View (425) 284-9536
Photo of Mandi Woolsey, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Mandi Woolsey
Counselor, LMHCA, MAEd
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
What a rough ride it's been over the last several years....a real doozy! There are so many people struggling with feelings of overwhelm, stress, anger/rage, grief, disillusion, lack of trust, lack of safety, hopelessness, loneliness, anxiety....you name it! We all feel it at times but sometimes it gets to be too much for us to handle on our own. We need to process our feelings, be heard, be seen, connect, and find our way through this maze of life. Does this sound like you? NO shame in that. We are human.
What a rough ride it's been over the last several years....a real doozy! There are so many people struggling with feelings of overwhelm, stress, anger/rage, grief, disillusion, lack of trust, lack of safety, hopelessness, loneliness, anxiety....you name it! We all feel it at times but sometimes it gets to be too much for us to handle on our own. We need to process our feelings, be heard, be seen, connect, and find our way through this maze of life. Does this sound like you? NO shame in that. We are human.
(425) 222-2147 View (425) 222-2147
Photo of Kiara Fitzpatrick, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Edmonds, WA
Kiara Fitzpatrick
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Relationship dynamics and conflict resolution have always interested me. Because of personal and educational experiences, I believe even the deepest of conflicts can be reconciled and that when individuals increase their self-esteem, they feel more empowered to engage with others honestly and confidently. It brings me joy to support people through trials as they discover deep truths about themselves, those around them and the intersection between the two. I use a variety of modalities—CBT, EFT, Gottman and more—to help clients identify and reframe their thoughts so they can repair, restore, and restrengthen their relationships.
Relationship dynamics and conflict resolution have always interested me. Because of personal and educational experiences, I believe even the deepest of conflicts can be reconciled and that when individuals increase their self-esteem, they feel more empowered to engage with others honestly and confidently. It brings me joy to support people through trials as they discover deep truths about themselves, those around them and the intersection between the two. I use a variety of modalities—CBT, EFT, Gottman and more—to help clients identify and reframe their thoughts so they can repair, restore, and restrengthen their relationships.
(425) 970-9618 View (425) 970-9618
Photo of Drue Larson, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Drue Larson
Counselor, MA-ABS, CC, ACHt
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Take your next step. Experience what Counseling and Hypnotherapy can do for you. Life often demands more than we are able to handle on our own. Although we do our best, we may reach a point where we feel emotionally overwhelmed, spiritually adrift; stuck in the past, afraid of the future; unable to resolve our issues or move forward in life. If this sounds familiar, recognizing this is the first step. Reaching out for help starts your journey toward healing and creating the life you desire.
Take your next step. Experience what Counseling and Hypnotherapy can do for you. Life often demands more than we are able to handle on our own. Although we do our best, we may reach a point where we feel emotionally overwhelmed, spiritually adrift; stuck in the past, afraid of the future; unable to resolve our issues or move forward in life. If this sounds familiar, recognizing this is the first step. Reaching out for help starts your journey toward healing and creating the life you desire.
(425) 406-3843 View (425) 406-3843
Photo of Melissa Phares, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Melissa Phares
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Please note: As of April 9, 2024, my practice is full and I'm not currently accepting new clients. I'll update this message as my availability changes. I am a social worker with 15 years of experience helping people create healthy change. I named my practice Many Paths Counseling because I feel there is more than one right way to feel better, find answers, heal from the past, and kindle hope for the future.
Please note: As of April 9, 2024, my practice is full and I'm not currently accepting new clients. I'll update this message as my availability changes. I am a social worker with 15 years of experience helping people create healthy change. I named my practice Many Paths Counseling because I feel there is more than one right way to feel better, find answers, heal from the past, and kindle hope for the future.
(206) 785-1744 View (206) 785-1744
Photo of Leslie B Savage, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Leslie B Savage
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MdFT, FOT
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
I have discovered that a sense of belonging, security, and peace is found within our being. I am a certified Focusing-Oriented psychotherapist with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in Medical Family Therapy. I work with an integrative psycho-spiritual approach that incorporates Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Contemplative Spirituality, to access the innate wisdom of the body-mind-spirit to heal. If you are suffering from family-of-origin issues, trauma, betrayal, depression, anxiety, illness, physical pain, or an inability to feel connected, I can help.
I have discovered that a sense of belonging, security, and peace is found within our being. I am a certified Focusing-Oriented psychotherapist with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in Medical Family Therapy. I work with an integrative psycho-spiritual approach that incorporates Internal Family Systems Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Contemplative Spirituality, to access the innate wisdom of the body-mind-spirit to heal. If you are suffering from family-of-origin issues, trauma, betrayal, depression, anxiety, illness, physical pain, or an inability to feel connected, I can help.
(425) 358-3374 View (425) 358-3374

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Edmonds, WA

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Edmonds, WA who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Therapists in Edmonds, WA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Edmonds?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.