Therapists in Nashville, TN

View neighborhoods in Nashville
Photo of Rachel Mae Gladys - Rachel Gladys Therapeutic Services, LPCMHSP, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Gladys Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Being a kid is supposed to be a magical time filled with fun, learning, exploring, and giggles. As a parent, is there anything worse than realizing something has gotten in the way of your child's magic? When you can't figure out how you and your child got here, parenting becomes unbearably hard. Worse than that is feeling like you don't know how to help your child. You and your child need support, guidance, and someone who believes the magic isn't lost forever. When life gets challenging, I work with kids, teens, families, and parents. I believe that the magic isn't lost, and healing is possible for your child and family.
Being a kid is supposed to be a magical time filled with fun, learning, exploring, and giggles. As a parent, is there anything worse than realizing something has gotten in the way of your child's magic? When you can't figure out how you and your child got here, parenting becomes unbearably hard. Worse than that is feeling like you don't know how to help your child. You and your child need support, guidance, and someone who believes the magic isn't lost forever. When life gets challenging, I work with kids, teens, families, and parents. I believe that the magic isn't lost, and healing is possible for your child and family.
(615) 569-3193 View (615) 569-3193
Photo of Angelique Howington Works, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angelique Howington Works
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
Do you struggle with fear, anxiety, worry or depression? Do you avoid situations because of difficult emotions? Does your anxiety and avoidance interfere with your quality of life? Or do you feel everything in your life needs to be perfect? I am passionate about helping individuals learn to thrive again by using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure-Response Prevention Therapy (ERP). I use an integrative approach to create a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment in which individuals can explore and grow.
Do you struggle with fear, anxiety, worry or depression? Do you avoid situations because of difficult emotions? Does your anxiety and avoidance interfere with your quality of life? Or do you feel everything in your life needs to be perfect? I am passionate about helping individuals learn to thrive again by using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure-Response Prevention Therapy (ERP). I use an integrative approach to create a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment in which individuals can explore and grow.
(615) 206-3009 View (615) 206-3009
Photo of Karen B Roberts - KBR Serenity Mind, Body Practice  , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
KBR Serenity Mind, Body Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206  (Online Only)
Greetings! I'm Karen Roberts, a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience in working with individuals, families, and groups in community. In therapy, my approach is to meet you where you are on your journey and collaborate towards achieving your goals. By envisioning what changes you desire in your life, you have already taken the first step. Perhaps you aim to be more vibrant, energetic, decisive, and purposeful. Imagine the possibilities if you could tap into these qualities. What would your life look like and how would you feel?
Greetings! I'm Karen Roberts, a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience in working with individuals, families, and groups in community. In therapy, my approach is to meet you where you are on your journey and collaborate towards achieving your goals. By envisioning what changes you desire in your life, you have already taken the first step. Perhaps you aim to be more vibrant, energetic, decisive, and purposeful. Imagine the possibilities if you could tap into these qualities. What would your life look like and how would you feel?
(615) 492-3396 View (615) 492-3396
Photo of Kacey L Holley, MA, LPC-, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kacey L Holley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
Willow Counseling offers discounted rates for our counseling interns. Please contact us to learn more! Life can present unexpected challenges, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Even a situation that may have begun as a small dilemma, can grow to become overwhelming, confusing, and often painful. Whether you are battling depression, anxiety, past or current trauma, or feel as if you are drowning without a rescue in sight, you find yourself searching for a lifeline. I am here to offer you support in navigating life’s difficult emotions. Just know that you are welcome here.
Willow Counseling offers discounted rates for our counseling interns. Please contact us to learn more! Life can present unexpected challenges, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Even a situation that may have begun as a small dilemma, can grow to become overwhelming, confusing, and often painful. Whether you are battling depression, anxiety, past or current trauma, or feel as if you are drowning without a rescue in sight, you find yourself searching for a lifeline. I am here to offer you support in navigating life’s difficult emotions. Just know that you are welcome here.
(615) 205-3726 View (615) 205-3726
Photo of Jackie Klaver - Nashville Neuropsychology & Family Services, PhD, Psychologist
Nashville Neuropsychology & Family Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
Nashville Neuropsychology & Family Services is a practice that provides comprehensive mental health services to children and their families. The NN&FS team is comprised of highly skilled and compassionate providers who can assess, diagnose, and provide treatment for cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral conditions. Our team’s mission is to support children and adolescents (and their families!) in achieving their potential through assessment, education, skills-based therapy, and medication management.
Nashville Neuropsychology & Family Services is a practice that provides comprehensive mental health services to children and their families. The NN&FS team is comprised of highly skilled and compassionate providers who can assess, diagnose, and provide treatment for cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral conditions. Our team’s mission is to support children and adolescents (and their families!) in achieving their potential through assessment, education, skills-based therapy, and medication management.
(615) 583-8119 View (615) 583-8119
Photo of Salem Horne, EdS , Pre-Licensed Professional
Salem Horne
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Hi, I'm Salem (they/he)! I'm an openly queer + neurodivergent therapist with a passion for working with trans teens, and adults. Much of my work focuses on the ways our identities intersect with culture and environment to create suffering. It is my hope that through our work together, clients can learn to embrace their truest selves, advocate for their needs, and experience peace.
Hi, I'm Salem (they/he)! I'm an openly queer + neurodivergent therapist with a passion for working with trans teens, and adults. Much of my work focuses on the ways our identities intersect with culture and environment to create suffering. It is my hope that through our work together, clients can learn to embrace their truest selves, advocate for their needs, and experience peace.
View
Photo of Lauren Gomance, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Gomance
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
You matter! It's important you feel supported through your process of feeling empowered and seen. I believe in counseling and its power to facilitate growth to your best self- purposeful, peaceful, and connected to who you truly are. Processing your history and goals, finding a purpose to your pain. You are worthy and valuable, no matter what has happened in your life. Our goal is to help you better understand what parts of you show up- how trauma responses can turn into superpowers. You'll have skills, awareness, somatic meditation & self soothing to better cope with life's stressors.
You matter! It's important you feel supported through your process of feeling empowered and seen. I believe in counseling and its power to facilitate growth to your best self- purposeful, peaceful, and connected to who you truly are. Processing your history and goals, finding a purpose to your pain. You are worthy and valuable, no matter what has happened in your life. Our goal is to help you better understand what parts of you show up- how trauma responses can turn into superpowers. You'll have skills, awareness, somatic meditation & self soothing to better cope with life's stressors.
(615) 576-3305 View (615) 576-3305
Photo of Ashley Sharpe, MA, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Sharpe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215  (Online Only)
Are you wondering why you're struggling now after you've been handling things well for a long time? If so, you are not alone and I have helped many in similar situations. When you are dealing with anxiety, difficult relationships, and/or pain from your past I am able to create a safe space to foster healing.
Are you wondering why you're struggling now after you've been handling things well for a long time? If so, you are not alone and I have helped many in similar situations. When you are dealing with anxiety, difficult relationships, and/or pain from your past I am able to create a safe space to foster healing.
(629) 249-5869 View (629) 249-5869
Photo of Samantha Carter-Orbke, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Carter-Orbke
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
Are you finding yourself feeling anxious, depressed, uncertain or overwhelmed? Are you stuck in grief, or struggling with relationships or life changes? Perhaps you're feeling like you don’t belong, or having difficulty trusting or accepting yourself. If any of these describe what you are going through, you’ve come to the right place. I fundamentally believe that everything we do and feel is for a reason, and at any point in our lives we are doing the best we can with the resources we have. My goal is to help you expand those resources so you can confidently face the challenges that brought you here.
Are you finding yourself feeling anxious, depressed, uncertain or overwhelmed? Are you stuck in grief, or struggling with relationships or life changes? Perhaps you're feeling like you don’t belong, or having difficulty trusting or accepting yourself. If any of these describe what you are going through, you’ve come to the right place. I fundamentally believe that everything we do and feel is for a reason, and at any point in our lives we are doing the best we can with the resources we have. My goal is to help you expand those resources so you can confidently face the challenges that brought you here.
(615) 544-6430 View (615) 544-6430
Photo of Alyssa Clements, PhD, Psychologist
Alyssa Clements
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212  (Online Only)
My goal is to provide a warm and personalized approach to therapy. I'm here to listen and work with you, adapting my methods to your unique journey. I specialize in helping adults, particularly those in early adulthood to navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, perfectionism, and major life transitions. My focus is on creating a safe and empathetic space where we can explore and address your needs together.
My goal is to provide a warm and personalized approach to therapy. I'm here to listen and work with you, adapting my methods to your unique journey. I specialize in helping adults, particularly those in early adulthood to navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, perfectionism, and major life transitions. My focus is on creating a safe and empathetic space where we can explore and address your needs together.
(629) 284-2764 View (629) 284-2764
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology, Psychologist
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37214
We strive to build relationships that heal. Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
We strive to build relationships that heal. Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(615) 398-8582 View (615) 398-8582
Photo of Sunny Farrell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sunny Farrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked for many years in adoption and child welfare. This experience allows me to take an informed clinical approach to families and the challenges presented in our daily lives and within our communities. Additionally, this work has given me an understanding of high stress work environments.
Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked for many years in adoption and child welfare. This experience allows me to take an informed clinical approach to families and the challenges presented in our daily lives and within our communities. Additionally, this work has given me an understanding of high stress work environments.
View
Photo of Douglas Herr - Douglas R Herr, Psy.D., PsyD
Douglas R Herr, Psy.D.
PsyD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37210  (Online Only)
I help adults who struggle with ADHD to get their lives together. This is you: A constant stream of great ideas in your mind, but you don't get things done. You're struggling with imposter syndrome, slammed by self-critical thoughts, and leave lots of things unfinished. You second-guess yourself in relationships, worried about being judged. People see you as less than you are, and worst of all, so you do. You're living way below your potential, you don't know how to change, and therapy, apps, and books haven't helped yet. You try things but get bored or forget to keep doing them, so nothing works. Does this sound like you?
I help adults who struggle with ADHD to get their lives together. This is you: A constant stream of great ideas in your mind, but you don't get things done. You're struggling with imposter syndrome, slammed by self-critical thoughts, and leave lots of things unfinished. You second-guess yourself in relationships, worried about being judged. People see you as less than you are, and worst of all, so you do. You're living way below your potential, you don't know how to change, and therapy, apps, and books haven't helped yet. You try things but get bored or forget to keep doing them, so nothing works. Does this sound like you?
(629) 276-6348 View (629) 276-6348
Photo of Carrie Fraser, LMFT, SD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Fraser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37221
Asking for help and support is a courageous first step toward wholeness. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to navigate their unique struggles and challenges. We will work together to help you identify your goals for building a healthier and more fulfilling life. In our time together we will develop techniques to help you practice and integrate skills to meet your goals. I am trained in Somatic and Attachment focused EMDR trauma therapy with experience working with clients who have experienced trauma or addiction/codependency directly or within their family systems. I am certified in dream work.
Asking for help and support is a courageous first step toward wholeness. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to navigate their unique struggles and challenges. We will work together to help you identify your goals for building a healthier and more fulfilling life. In our time together we will develop techniques to help you practice and integrate skills to meet your goals. I am trained in Somatic and Attachment focused EMDR trauma therapy with experience working with clients who have experienced trauma or addiction/codependency directly or within their family systems. I am certified in dream work.
(615) 471-6414 View (615) 471-6414
Photo of Charles Russell Williams - Zenith Consulting & Psychological Services, LLC, PhD, MSCP, HSP, Psychologist
Zenith Consulting & Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP, HSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
The world in which we live is fast-pace and changes rapidly. The providers at Zenith are culturally competent to meet the needs of many. We are results-driven to help each patient/client with their issues and achieve their goals. Our goal is to meet the needs and not have a forever client.
The world in which we live is fast-pace and changes rapidly. The providers at Zenith are culturally competent to meet the needs of many. We are results-driven to help each patient/client with their issues and achieve their goals. Our goal is to meet the needs and not have a forever client.
(615) 551-7367 View (615) 551-7367
Photo of Jessica Lee Ann Blackwell, MA, NCC, LPC, MHSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Lee Ann Blackwell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Are you running an emotional marathon? Do the bandaids on your emotional wounds keep falling off? I will hold space for your pain and whatever is standing in the way of living life on your terms. I am committed to supporting my clients open-heartedly and without judgement. I work with people ages 10 and up and have a special interest in supporting those who have been in relationship with people who have narcissistic traits; additionally, I am trained in EMDR. I enjoy exploring tendencies like overthinking and perfectionism, as reworking those patterns can be game-changing.
Are you running an emotional marathon? Do the bandaids on your emotional wounds keep falling off? I will hold space for your pain and whatever is standing in the way of living life on your terms. I am committed to supporting my clients open-heartedly and without judgement. I work with people ages 10 and up and have a special interest in supporting those who have been in relationship with people who have narcissistic traits; additionally, I am trained in EMDR. I enjoy exploring tendencies like overthinking and perfectionism, as reworking those patterns can be game-changing.
(615) 471-7335 View (615) 471-7335
Photo of Mackenzie Alcorn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mackenzie Alcorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203  (Online Only)
Are you a first responder, nurse, doctor, active duty military or veteran experiencing burn out, irritability, frustration with your job? Maybe you have experienced multiple critical incidents (death, life saving measures, brutal calls). As a first responder, you dedicate your life to serving and protecting others, often at the expense of your own. Well, as a first responder therapist, that is what I specialize in. My approach acknowledges the pressures, traumas, and stressors inherent in your profession, offering compassionate and effective therapy solutions to help you thrive both on and off duty.
Are you a first responder, nurse, doctor, active duty military or veteran experiencing burn out, irritability, frustration with your job? Maybe you have experienced multiple critical incidents (death, life saving measures, brutal calls). As a first responder, you dedicate your life to serving and protecting others, often at the expense of your own. Well, as a first responder therapist, that is what I specialize in. My approach acknowledges the pressures, traumas, and stressors inherent in your profession, offering compassionate and effective therapy solutions to help you thrive both on and off duty.
(629) 310-0288 View (629) 310-0288
Photo of Amalia Jones - A Balanced Therapy , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Balanced Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you having thoughts and feelings that just don’t make sense? Do you ever feel really upset and can’t figure out why? Does it seem like finding happiness is harder for you than for others? You’re definitely not alone in this. At A Balanced Therapy, we’re all about helping you feel better. We listen, really listen, to what you’re going through and help you see things in a new way. We’ll work together to help you find your happy place, even when it seems really hard to get there. Your journey to feeling good about life starts with just one step. Your journey to joy starts with a single, brave step. Let’s take that step together.
Are you having thoughts and feelings that just don’t make sense? Do you ever feel really upset and can’t figure out why? Does it seem like finding happiness is harder for you than for others? You’re definitely not alone in this. At A Balanced Therapy, we’re all about helping you feel better. We listen, really listen, to what you’re going through and help you see things in a new way. We’ll work together to help you find your happy place, even when it seems really hard to get there. Your journey to feeling good about life starts with just one step. Your journey to joy starts with a single, brave step. Let’s take that step together.
(901) 665-3530 View (901) 665-3530
Photo of Karen Moran, LADC II, NCAC II, QCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Karen Moran
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC II, NCAC II, QCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37210
Change is hard. It's particularly challenging when a lifestyle is built around behaviors that used to work. Fear, guilt, embarrassment, and anger often are a normal part of the process of becoming aware of the need for change. Sometimes these feelings create a barrier to the necessary change that brings relief. If you struggle with problematic substance use, either your own or someone else's, you know these statements are true. You just want reassurance that it is possible for life to be different...easier. It can be. Once a decision is made to take action...any new action...hope begins to come into focus.
Change is hard. It's particularly challenging when a lifestyle is built around behaviors that used to work. Fear, guilt, embarrassment, and anger often are a normal part of the process of becoming aware of the need for change. Sometimes these feelings create a barrier to the necessary change that brings relief. If you struggle with problematic substance use, either your own or someone else's, you know these statements are true. You just want reassurance that it is possible for life to be different...easier. It can be. Once a decision is made to take action...any new action...hope begins to come into focus.
(615) 436-5739 View (615) 436-5739
Photo of Jordan Bear, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordan Bear
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I believe hope is found in the possibility of change. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them actualize the change they envision. Whether you are frustrated with relationships, feeling that you've lost your sense of self, battling with your anxious thoughts, or just seeking to understand yourself better. I want to give you a safe, judgement-free space to come as you are and begin your therapeutic journey. I am excited to collaborate with you on your goals, call out your strengths, and work with you, at your pace, towards a healthier you.
I believe hope is found in the possibility of change. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them actualize the change they envision. Whether you are frustrated with relationships, feeling that you've lost your sense of self, battling with your anxious thoughts, or just seeking to understand yourself better. I want to give you a safe, judgement-free space to come as you are and begin your therapeutic journey. I am excited to collaborate with you on your goals, call out your strengths, and work with you, at your pace, towards a healthier you.
(615) 903-5623 View (615) 903-5623
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Nashville, TN

2,000+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in Nashville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
77% Cigna and Evernorth
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Nashville, TN see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Nashville?

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.