Therapists in Knoxville, TN

View neighborhoods in Knoxville
Photo of Angela Masini, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Angela Masini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Do you find yourself in internal arguments with your inner critic or feel so pressured by should’s that being stressed has become the norm? Do you miss your former, more alive self or notice that feelings you had hoped were resolved continue to generate painful memories? Are you struggling with unwanted behaviors - irritable outbursts, addictions, or indecisiveness? Or missing intimacy and positive communication with your spouse or partner? Though there is no "typical client", resolving these concerns or decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, are frequent reasons reported by my clients when they come to therapy.
Do you find yourself in internal arguments with your inner critic or feel so pressured by should’s that being stressed has become the norm? Do you miss your former, more alive self or notice that feelings you had hoped were resolved continue to generate painful memories? Are you struggling with unwanted behaviors - irritable outbursts, addictions, or indecisiveness? Or missing intimacy and positive communication with your spouse or partner? Though there is no "typical client", resolving these concerns or decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, are frequent reasons reported by my clients when they come to therapy.
(865) 217-0514 View (865) 217-0514
Photo of Faith Shultz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Faith Shultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with life's difficulties? Do you struggle with feeling powerless, anxious, depressed, or just "different"? You deserve to be heard and I'm here to listen.
Are you dealing with life's difficulties? Do you struggle with feeling powerless, anxious, depressed, or just "different"? You deserve to be heard and I'm here to listen.
(865) 737-1943 View (865) 737-1943
Photo of Candis Cochran, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Candis Cochran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
Welcome! I applaud you for taking the steps to help yourself grow. I have over 10 years of experience helping people discover how to be the best version of themself. If you feel anxious, overwhelmed or depressed or feel that you are missing out, struggling to find joy or are becoming overly cynical I would love to talk with you and help you figure out what is missing. If you struggle with people pleasing, enabling, or over functioning this can also make life feel overwhelming but I would love to help. If you are struggling to connect with your partner or have a lot of miscommunications I can help you create a thriving marriage.
Welcome! I applaud you for taking the steps to help yourself grow. I have over 10 years of experience helping people discover how to be the best version of themself. If you feel anxious, overwhelmed or depressed or feel that you are missing out, struggling to find joy or are becoming overly cynical I would love to talk with you and help you figure out what is missing. If you struggle with people pleasing, enabling, or over functioning this can also make life feel overwhelming but I would love to help. If you are struggling to connect with your partner or have a lot of miscommunications I can help you create a thriving marriage.
(865) 518-8415 View (865) 518-8415
Photo of Dayle Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Dayle Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Not accepting new clients
A warm hello. I work with individuals and couples, helping them navigate life's challenges. I am person-centered and strengths-focused, meeting my clients with genuine, heart-centered quality care. Utilizing Person-Centered Therapy, DBT, CBT, and a variety of other modalities through a relational approach ensures individualized treatment for each person I see. As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I offer additional resources and treatment options for clients as well. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. Sitting with my clients is a journey I’m truly honored to be part of. Don't hesitate to reach out - looking forward to meeting you!
A warm hello. I work with individuals and couples, helping them navigate life's challenges. I am person-centered and strengths-focused, meeting my clients with genuine, heart-centered quality care. Utilizing Person-Centered Therapy, DBT, CBT, and a variety of other modalities through a relational approach ensures individualized treatment for each person I see. As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I offer additional resources and treatment options for clients as well. I am LGBTQ+ affirming. Sitting with my clients is a journey I’m truly honored to be part of. Don't hesitate to reach out - looking forward to meeting you!
(865) 426-1255 View (865) 426-1255
Photo of Pam Nuchols, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Pam Nuchols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37938  (Online Only)
Have you ever wondered if you will always feel this way? Maybe you feel alone or like no one understands who you are. Perhaps you struggle with relationships, jobs, family dynamics and anxiety about all of these struggles. You do not have to do this alone and unsupported. If you want someone to accompany you on your path to recognizing your strengths and using them, I would be honored to walk with you.
Have you ever wondered if you will always feel this way? Maybe you feel alone or like no one understands who you are. Perhaps you struggle with relationships, jobs, family dynamics and anxiety about all of these struggles. You do not have to do this alone and unsupported. If you want someone to accompany you on your path to recognizing your strengths and using them, I would be honored to walk with you.
(865) 674-9138 View (865) 674-9138
Photo of Kelsey Bearden in Knoxville, TN
Kelsey Bearden
MS, CPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
I enjoy working with children and families who are struggling to understand each other and get along. A lack of communication and an inability to express feelings appropriately are often the main issues in these relationships. I work with not only the children/teens to increase their abilities in these areas, I also work with the parents and siblings to help them understand how they can help the relationship be less turbulent.
I enjoy working with children and families who are struggling to understand each other and get along. A lack of communication and an inability to express feelings appropriately are often the main issues in these relationships. I work with not only the children/teens to increase their abilities in these areas, I also work with the parents and siblings to help them understand how they can help the relationship be less turbulent.
(865) 238-2185 View (865) 238-2185
Photo of Laurence Welch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Laurence Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Laurence Welch is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Laurence is a relentlessly supportive therapist with more than a decade of teaching mindfulness practices, resulting in a uniquely grounded and compassionate presence. She utilizes a humanist, collaborative approach to assist you in meeting your goals and making desired changes. Outside of work, Laurence enjoys puttering in her garden, concocting treats in her kitchen, and playing the piano poorly. She also takes great pleasure in her excessive collection of books, most of which she has thought about reading.
Laurence Welch is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. Laurence is a relentlessly supportive therapist with more than a decade of teaching mindfulness practices, resulting in a uniquely grounded and compassionate presence. She utilizes a humanist, collaborative approach to assist you in meeting your goals and making desired changes. Outside of work, Laurence enjoys puttering in her garden, concocting treats in her kitchen, and playing the piano poorly. She also takes great pleasure in her excessive collection of books, most of which she has thought about reading.
(865) 269-6595 View (865) 269-6595
Photo of Mona Marie Williams-Hayes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Mona Marie Williams-Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Clients who have wounds, especially interpersonal ones, find that they feel heard without judgement when working with me. I don't get embarrassed or surprised and I think clients find I am warm, genuine, open-minded and respectful. My experience is heavily focused on trauma, especially interpersonal; anxiety; and parenting challenges. Talking with people in counseling is a gift people share with me and I am honored when I can be a part of someone's "story." With 20 years of clinical experience, I have had many opportunities to help people navigate changes in their lives. I believe in the importance of connectedness.
Clients who have wounds, especially interpersonal ones, find that they feel heard without judgement when working with me. I don't get embarrassed or surprised and I think clients find I am warm, genuine, open-minded and respectful. My experience is heavily focused on trauma, especially interpersonal; anxiety; and parenting challenges. Talking with people in counseling is a gift people share with me and I am honored when I can be a part of someone's "story." With 20 years of clinical experience, I have had many opportunities to help people navigate changes in their lives. I believe in the importance of connectedness.
(865) 830-6039 View (865) 830-6039
Photo of Dawn Fortich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Dawn Fortich, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
The process of initiating therapy can be scary. Trusting someone you don't know isn't always easy. The truth is that life is difficult. We have all experienced sadness, loss, fear, and loneliness. Therapy can help find clarity and strength. My experience is as diverse as those I serve such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, & LGBT issues, marital counseling, and PTSD. I enjoy my work and feel blessed to be a tool for God to help those who are hurting or in need of understanding. My greatest reward comes from empowering people with the confidence and tools to make a positive change.
The process of initiating therapy can be scary. Trusting someone you don't know isn't always easy. The truth is that life is difficult. We have all experienced sadness, loss, fear, and loneliness. Therapy can help find clarity and strength. My experience is as diverse as those I serve such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, & LGBT issues, marital counseling, and PTSD. I enjoy my work and feel blessed to be a tool for God to help those who are hurting or in need of understanding. My greatest reward comes from empowering people with the confidence and tools to make a positive change.
(865) 498-5001 View (865) 498-5001
Photo of Lauren Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Lauren Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Finding a space to feel safe, heard, and valued can be difficult. It's even harder to find this space, when we're feeling overwhelmed by life. I have learned that this essential piece- developing trust and safety with my clients- is the basis for healing and wholeness. I strive to put clients and their needs first. If you're struggling with mental health challenges as a result of trauma or significant life stress, please reach out so we can talk more about working together on your journey towards more peace and healing.
Finding a space to feel safe, heard, and valued can be difficult. It's even harder to find this space, when we're feeling overwhelmed by life. I have learned that this essential piece- developing trust and safety with my clients- is the basis for healing and wholeness. I strive to put clients and their needs first. If you're struggling with mental health challenges as a result of trauma or significant life stress, please reach out so we can talk more about working together on your journey towards more peace and healing.
(865) 328-9005 View (865) 328-9005
Photo of Kate West, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Kate West
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I'm Kate. "Healing" and "growth" are words you'll hear a lot in the counseling community. For that reason, it can feel a little cliche to use them, but I think it's popular language for a reason - healing and growth are what we're all searching for from time to time. I work with folks looking to heal and make meaning from hurts and hard life experiences, and those hoping to grow within themselves and in their relationships. I see my job as making that process feel safe and more attainable by providing a warm, supportive, and tailored counseling experience.
Hi, I'm Kate. "Healing" and "growth" are words you'll hear a lot in the counseling community. For that reason, it can feel a little cliche to use them, but I think it's popular language for a reason - healing and growth are what we're all searching for from time to time. I work with folks looking to heal and make meaning from hurts and hard life experiences, and those hoping to grow within themselves and in their relationships. I see my job as making that process feel safe and more attainable by providing a warm, supportive, and tailored counseling experience.
View
Photo of Jessica Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Jessica Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Hi! I'm Jessie, and I'm a therapist in Knoxville. I have been working as a therapist since 2008, and use different treatment modalities and approaches to help my clients in the best way possible. I'm excited for us to work together to come up with the best treatment plan to help you achieve your personal goals!
Hi! I'm Jessie, and I'm a therapist in Knoxville. I have been working as a therapist since 2008, and use different treatment modalities and approaches to help my clients in the best way possible. I'm excited for us to work together to come up with the best treatment plan to help you achieve your personal goals!
(865) 535-7175 View (865) 535-7175
Photo of Karen R Swanay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Karen R Swanay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
My ideal client is one who knows they need to make changes and are willing to do the work of therapy. My practice is specialized to help those with OCD, anxiety, and related disorders but I am also a gender therapist. My office is a safe space where you can be you.
My ideal client is one who knows they need to make changes and are willing to do the work of therapy. My practice is specialized to help those with OCD, anxiety, and related disorders but I am also a gender therapist. My office is a safe space where you can be you.
(850) 279-5084 View (850) 279-5084
Photo of Cathy Chambers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Cathy Chambers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Not accepting new clients
All of us encounter struggles throughout life. At times, those struggles can be overwhelming and challenge our ability to cope. During those times it is difficult and sometimes, impossible, to recognize our own inherent strength. Therapy can allow for a safe space to work through those struggles. I enjoy working with clients in developing self awareness of their own strengths. Together, we can then re-build or construct new ways to cope with life's stressors.
All of us encounter struggles throughout life. At times, those struggles can be overwhelming and challenge our ability to cope. During those times it is difficult and sometimes, impossible, to recognize our own inherent strength. Therapy can allow for a safe space to work through those struggles. I enjoy working with clients in developing self awareness of their own strengths. Together, we can then re-build or construct new ways to cope with life's stressors.
(865) 383-1131 View (865) 383-1131
Photo of Sondra Haley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Sondra Haley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37912
Waitlist for new clients
Navigating the sea of life requires a different set of skills throughout life. What works when you are 16 years old doesn’t work so well when you’re 40 years old. Oftentimes when life is passing by so quickly, adapting to the changes requires better-coping skills, skills you've yet to acquire. Or maybe, your teen has all of a sudden became distant, argumentative, and secretive. You’ve tried to be supportive in their growing independence, yet still needing a home base, but the scales aren’t balancing out. This is when you understand that seeking outside intervention is necessary.
Navigating the sea of life requires a different set of skills throughout life. What works when you are 16 years old doesn’t work so well when you’re 40 years old. Oftentimes when life is passing by so quickly, adapting to the changes requires better-coping skills, skills you've yet to acquire. Or maybe, your teen has all of a sudden became distant, argumentative, and secretive. You’ve tried to be supportive in their growing independence, yet still needing a home base, but the scales aren’t balancing out. This is when you understand that seeking outside intervention is necessary.
(865) 344-1819 View (865) 344-1819
Photo of Chelsea L Temple, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Chelsea L Temple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
My primary experience is working with adolescents and their families enduring a mental health or behavioral crisis. I enjoy working alongside each individual to assist with relieving symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, LGBTQ affirmation, and intrusive trauma reactions. I want to give you a laid back and judgement free space to process your past and present experiences while you build skills to successfully navigate life’s challenges. I’m a firm believer that every person possesses the strength and ability to reach their own version of success, and I thoroughly enjoy when I am allowed to be part of this process!
My primary experience is working with adolescents and their families enduring a mental health or behavioral crisis. I enjoy working alongside each individual to assist with relieving symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, LGBTQ affirmation, and intrusive trauma reactions. I want to give you a laid back and judgement free space to process your past and present experiences while you build skills to successfully navigate life’s challenges. I’m a firm believer that every person possesses the strength and ability to reach their own version of success, and I thoroughly enjoy when I am allowed to be part of this process!
(865) 535-7254 View (865) 535-7254
Photo of Michelle Proctor, Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Michelle Proctor
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
As a queer therapist with ADHD, I understand the struggles of navigating unwelcoming and ill-equipped systems. Many people who grow up with undiagnosed ADHD experience unique challenges. Often, this involves a constant battle of self-blame for not being able to effortlessly accomplish what seems to come naturally to others. The emotional distress created by this leaves people feeling confused and misunderstood. I help people to: better understand their diagnosis; work to reduce and eliminate years of shame; and develop functional, realistic skills beyond just using a planner.
As a queer therapist with ADHD, I understand the struggles of navigating unwelcoming and ill-equipped systems. Many people who grow up with undiagnosed ADHD experience unique challenges. Often, this involves a constant battle of self-blame for not being able to effortlessly accomplish what seems to come naturally to others. The emotional distress created by this leaves people feeling confused and misunderstood. I help people to: better understand their diagnosis; work to reduce and eliminate years of shame; and develop functional, realistic skills beyond just using a planner.
(865) 737-2915 View (865) 737-2915
Photo of Laura Gasparrini in Knoxville, TN
Laura Gasparrini
MA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
You're a Heart-centered Creative⁠ who is walking the mystical path⁠ with practical feet.⁠ You’re called to make a change in your life, but up against questions of Permission & Capacity. ⁠ Can I . . .? Will I . . .?⁠ ⁠ You're in that potent space of Unknowing⁠ before Opening the Door⁠ and Walking into the New.⁠ ⁠ Welcome, Creative Soul.⁠ You've made your way here - to this threshold of Possibility and Promise. ⁠ If you'd like to connect more deeply with your Next Steps and your capacity to create an Artful Life that you Love, I can help.⁠ ⁠
You're a Heart-centered Creative⁠ who is walking the mystical path⁠ with practical feet.⁠ You’re called to make a change in your life, but up against questions of Permission & Capacity. ⁠ Can I . . .? Will I . . .?⁠ ⁠ You're in that potent space of Unknowing⁠ before Opening the Door⁠ and Walking into the New.⁠ ⁠ Welcome, Creative Soul.⁠ You've made your way here - to this threshold of Possibility and Promise. ⁠ If you'd like to connect more deeply with your Next Steps and your capacity to create an Artful Life that you Love, I can help.⁠ ⁠
(865) 509-8946 View (865) 509-8946
Photo of Cynthia Searcy Crawford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Cynthia Searcy Crawford
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
I have devoted my life to working with children and adolescents. My experiences as a mother, K-12 teacher, elementary school counselor, school psychologist, and therapist have prepared me to work with youth who demonstrate a range of problems at school, home, and play. My clients are often depressed, have severe behavioral problems, have trouble making friends, demonstrate symptoms of anxiety, or have been victims of abuse or trauma. I believe all clients have within themselves the capacity for growth and positive change, provided the proper conditions in an environment of unconditional acceptance and self-worth.
I have devoted my life to working with children and adolescents. My experiences as a mother, K-12 teacher, elementary school counselor, school psychologist, and therapist have prepared me to work with youth who demonstrate a range of problems at school, home, and play. My clients are often depressed, have severe behavioral problems, have trouble making friends, demonstrate symptoms of anxiety, or have been victims of abuse or trauma. I believe all clients have within themselves the capacity for growth and positive change, provided the proper conditions in an environment of unconditional acceptance and self-worth.
(865) 409-1623 View (865) 409-1623
Photo of Clyde Johnson, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Clyde Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Your personal story is unique and unlike anyone else’s. There are times your story may feel difficult for you to understand, let alone share with others. Therapy can assist with making sense of your path and help you to understand how your story affects your present and your future. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I offer my training and expertise to help individuals and couples process challenging life experiences, understand the impact of those experiences on them and those they love, and utilize skills that can help even their most troubling experiences become an integrated and less troubling part of their story.
Your personal story is unique and unlike anyone else’s. There are times your story may feel difficult for you to understand, let alone share with others. Therapy can assist with making sense of your path and help you to understand how your story affects your present and your future. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I offer my training and expertise to help individuals and couples process challenging life experiences, understand the impact of those experiences on them and those they love, and utilize skills that can help even their most troubling experiences become an integrated and less troubling part of their story.
(865) 424-9829 View (865) 424-9829

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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

Learn more about how to find a therapist

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

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

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

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

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

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

What type of therapy is right for me?

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

How much does therapy cost?

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

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

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

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

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

Is online therapy a good option?

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

Are therapy sessions confidential?

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