Therapists in El Paso County, TX

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Photo of Lisa Gomez, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lisa Gomez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
El Paso, TX 79912
Welcome! Emotions are powerful and often overwhelming as is life. They can be confusing, making it hard to know what to do or how to feel. I would be honored to help you navigate these emotions and untangle the challenges that stem from all of life’s challenges and unexpected curve balls. I am an LPC/LPCC certified in TX and NM. I work with ages 10 and up, and treat everything from life stage changes, anxiety, depression, to different types of trauma. First responders are welcome. I am EMDR trained, practice MBSEP and use a variety of different techniques and modalities to meet you where ever you are in your healing journey.
Welcome! Emotions are powerful and often overwhelming as is life. They can be confusing, making it hard to know what to do or how to feel. I would be honored to help you navigate these emotions and untangle the challenges that stem from all of life’s challenges and unexpected curve balls. I am an LPC/LPCC certified in TX and NM. I work with ages 10 and up, and treat everything from life stage changes, anxiety, depression, to different types of trauma. First responders are welcome. I am EMDR trained, practice MBSEP and use a variety of different techniques and modalities to meet you where ever you are in your healing journey.
(915) 348-5215 View (915) 348-5215
Photo of Cynthia Castillo, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Cynthia Castillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
El Paso, TX 79902
I believe healing happens when you feel truly seen, supported, and safe. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, depression, or difficult life experiences, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I provide a warm, compassionate space where you can slow down, process your experiences, and reconnect with your sense of self. Reaching out for support can feel difficult, but it can also be the first step toward growth, clarity, and emotional freedom. When you’re ready, I’m here to help.
I believe healing happens when you feel truly seen, supported, and safe. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, depression, or difficult life experiences, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I provide a warm, compassionate space where you can slow down, process your experiences, and reconnect with your sense of self. Reaching out for support can feel difficult, but it can also be the first step toward growth, clarity, and emotional freedom. When you’re ready, I’m here to help.
(915) 900-6926 View (915) 900-6926
Photo of Karina Hernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
Karina Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
You are stuck in an emotional hole you can't seem to get out of. You are moody, easily irritated, and annoyed. At times you are also sad, frustrated and angry. You might be going through a tough transition or simply don't know where all of these feelings are coming from. You are a perfectionist, lack boundaries, and simply exhausted with overall expectations. You are suppressing and numbing unwanted feelings, traumatic memories, and/or childhood trauma. You know that you want to feel better but don't know where to start. You are tired of feeling this way and you are ready to start feeling better.
You are stuck in an emotional hole you can't seem to get out of. You are moody, easily irritated, and annoyed. At times you are also sad, frustrated and angry. You might be going through a tough transition or simply don't know where all of these feelings are coming from. You are a perfectionist, lack boundaries, and simply exhausted with overall expectations. You are suppressing and numbing unwanted feelings, traumatic memories, and/or childhood trauma. You know that you want to feel better but don't know where to start. You are tired of feeling this way and you are ready to start feeling better.
(915) 233-3292 View (915) 233-3292
Photo of Daryl Stevens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Daryl Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
1 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79902
Accepting new Clients! I have the distinct honor of serving in the U.S. Army for over 21 years. As a senior leader and dedicated public servant I help individuals, couples and families facing emotional, social, relational, professional and physical challenges. Over the years, I have worked with people dealing with chemical dependency, family issues, post-traumatic stress disorder from combat, abuse or other traumas, unresolved grief, confidence issues, financial issues, depression, anxiety etc. My goal is to help you develop self-understanding so that you can learn to move through life in a more grounded and intentional way.
Accepting new Clients! I have the distinct honor of serving in the U.S. Army for over 21 years. As a senior leader and dedicated public servant I help individuals, couples and families facing emotional, social, relational, professional and physical challenges. Over the years, I have worked with people dealing with chemical dependency, family issues, post-traumatic stress disorder from combat, abuse or other traumas, unresolved grief, confidence issues, financial issues, depression, anxiety etc. My goal is to help you develop self-understanding so that you can learn to move through life in a more grounded and intentional way.
(915) 666-7493 View (915) 666-7493
Photo of Rachel Sebastian, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd
Rachel Sebastian
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd
2 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79925
I believe that everyone has the capacity for healing and change, and therapy can help you access that strength while learning new ways to feel more grounded, connected, and understood. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma as well as with couples looking to heal from infidelity or simply improve their relationship.
I believe that everyone has the capacity for healing and change, and therapy can help you access that strength while learning new ways to feel more grounded, connected, and understood. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma as well as with couples looking to heal from infidelity or simply improve their relationship.
(915) 666-2405 View (915) 666-2405
Photo of Alex Reyes, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Alex Reyes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
El Paso, TX 79935
I would like to help you to find effective ways to face your struggles. I believe counseling can help anyone to develop a new approach to daily stressors and frustrations that affect relationships and daily activities. I can teach you techniques to handle daily difficulties effectively.
I would like to help you to find effective ways to face your struggles. I believe counseling can help anyone to develop a new approach to daily stressors and frustrations that affect relationships and daily activities. I can teach you techniques to handle daily difficulties effectively.
(915) 800-3343 View (915) 800-3343
Photo of Ms. Zainub (Zani) Fatta - Zainub Fatta, LMFT @ Evolve Psychiatry, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Zainub Fatta, LMFT @ Evolve Psychiatry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
El Paso, TX 79901
Are relationship dynamics, family tension, or the patterns you keep repeating leaving you feeling stuck and disconnected from who you truly are? Whether the struggle is personal, between partners, or felt across the whole family, it rarely exists in isolation — and neither should the solution. You don't have to untangle it alone, and you don't have to choose between getting help as an individual or getting help together. In addition to individual therapy, I specialize in couples and family therapy, helping you gain deeper insight into your patterns and become more of who you truly are.
Are relationship dynamics, family tension, or the patterns you keep repeating leaving you feeling stuck and disconnected from who you truly are? Whether the struggle is personal, between partners, or felt across the whole family, it rarely exists in isolation — and neither should the solution. You don't have to untangle it alone, and you don't have to choose between getting help as an individual or getting help together. In addition to individual therapy, I specialize in couples and family therapy, helping you gain deeper insight into your patterns and become more of who you truly are.
(915) 233-2235 View (915) 233-2235
Photo of Dolores Ann Gutierrez - The Lending Ear Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
The Lending Ear Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
El Paso, TX 79924
Do you have something on your mind and seeking someone to listen and understand you in times of stress, experiencing an anxiety episode and other mental health related complications? Do you find yourself feeling extreme sadness, lack of interest or not social as you used to be and need someone to explain what is causing these feelings? The Lending Ear Counseling Center is here to offer counseling services to guide you to improve personal strength and answer all the questions you have in mind.
Do you have something on your mind and seeking someone to listen and understand you in times of stress, experiencing an anxiety episode and other mental health related complications? Do you find yourself feeling extreme sadness, lack of interest or not social as you used to be and need someone to explain what is causing these feelings? The Lending Ear Counseling Center is here to offer counseling services to guide you to improve personal strength and answer all the questions you have in mind.
(915) 900-6541 View (915) 900-6541
Photo of Mayra Alejandra Alvarez-Bernal, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LPC
Mayra Alejandra Alvarez-Bernal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LPC
Online Only
I’m Mayra Alvarez-Bernal, and I help adults navigate the light and shadow of life, the moments of hope and growth, as well as the pain, loss, and uncertainty that can feel overwhelming. I work with people facing trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, substance use, grief, and anxiety. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and I’m passionate about providing culturally responsive care to clients from diverse backgrounds
I’m Mayra Alvarez-Bernal, and I help adults navigate the light and shadow of life, the moments of hope and growth, as well as the pain, loss, and uncertainty that can feel overwhelming. I work with people facing trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, substance use, grief, and anxiety. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and I’m passionate about providing culturally responsive care to clients from diverse backgrounds
(915) 336-8632 View (915) 336-8632
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Marrufo-Esmele, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Dr. Elizabeth Marrufo-Esmele
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
El Paso, TX 79925
My work centers on helping individuals heal from the impact of traumatic experiences, creating relief not only in the mind, but throughout the body. I believe every person carries the capacity for meaningful growth, and that healing becomes possible when we feel safe, supported, and understood. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that you can build a future rooted in peace, connection, and emotional well‑being. In our work together, you’ll have space to explore, process, and grow at a pace that feels right for you.
My work centers on helping individuals heal from the impact of traumatic experiences, creating relief not only in the mind, but throughout the body. I believe every person carries the capacity for meaningful growth, and that healing becomes possible when we feel safe, supported, and understood. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that you can build a future rooted in peace, connection, and emotional well‑being. In our work together, you’ll have space to explore, process, and grow at a pace that feels right for you.
(915) 348-5044 View (915) 348-5044
Photo of Luisa Maria Elberg-Urbina - Luisa M. Elberg-Urbina, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Luisa M. Elberg-Urbina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
3 Endorsed
El Paso, TX 79997
The client will determine the outcomes, and I guide the client to solutions through the discovery of the client's own resources. Therapy will allow the client to overcome painful experiences; therapy will empower the client to achieve his/her own healing. Life events shape us into who we are, but when it hurts, we know something must be changed. Then, it becomes very important not to be alone in our perspectives or pain.Therapy is an ongoing process of change. Senderos (or pathways), means the exploration of new ways to have a happier life. I have been practicing as therapist for more than ten years.
The client will determine the outcomes, and I guide the client to solutions through the discovery of the client's own resources. Therapy will allow the client to overcome painful experiences; therapy will empower the client to achieve his/her own healing. Life events shape us into who we are, but when it hurts, we know something must be changed. Then, it becomes very important not to be alone in our perspectives or pain.Therapy is an ongoing process of change. Senderos (or pathways), means the exploration of new ways to have a happier life. I have been practicing as therapist for more than ten years.
(915) 348-4747 View (915) 348-4747
Photo of Manuela Palacio, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Manuela Palacio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’re someone who holds it all together on the outside but feels overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained underneath, you’re not alone. You don’t have to keep pushing through it by yourself. You don’t need to hit “rock bottom” to deserve support. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and intense or unpredictable emotions. Many of my clients feel stuck in patterns they understand logically but can’t seem to change. In our work together, we focus on helping you feel more in control of your emotions, build effective coping skills, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself.
If you’re someone who holds it all together on the outside but feels overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained underneath, you’re not alone. You don’t have to keep pushing through it by yourself. You don’t need to hit “rock bottom” to deserve support. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and intense or unpredictable emotions. Many of my clients feel stuck in patterns they understand logically but can’t seem to change. In our work together, we focus on helping you feel more in control of your emotions, build effective coping skills, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself.
(915) 666-4842 View (915) 666-4842
Photo of Martha Ballesteros, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Martha Ballesteros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Martha Ballesteros. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My focus in practice is primarily on substance use, addiction, codependency, co-occurring disorders, cultural identity, and family systems. My clinical practice experience is primarily with individuals dealing with substance abuse issues and with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. My approach in proving therapy is to provide a judgement-free and safe zone for others. Seeking therapy can be a challenging step and I would like for you to feel comfortable. I primarily focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
My name is Martha Ballesteros. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My focus in practice is primarily on substance use, addiction, codependency, co-occurring disorders, cultural identity, and family systems. My clinical practice experience is primarily with individuals dealing with substance abuse issues and with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. My approach in proving therapy is to provide a judgement-free and safe zone for others. Seeking therapy can be a challenging step and I would like for you to feel comfortable. I primarily focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(737) 250-6596 View (737) 250-6596
Photo of Brenda Varela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brenda Varela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Reaching out for therapy is often one of the hardest steps, especially when you've been carrying stress, anxiety, difficult emotions, or life's challenges on your own. I work with adolescents and adults facing concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens when you feel safe, understood, and empowered. Together, we'll explore what's contributing to your current struggles, identify your strengths, and develop practical strategies to help you move toward your goals
Reaching out for therapy is often one of the hardest steps, especially when you've been carrying stress, anxiety, difficult emotions, or life's challenges on your own. I work with adolescents and adults facing concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens when you feel safe, understood, and empowered. Together, we'll explore what's contributing to your current struggles, identify your strengths, and develop practical strategies to help you move toward your goals
(915) 221-2308 View (915) 221-2308
Photo of Shunda Carr - Positive Innovations, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S, NCC , ACS, MAC SAP
Positive Innovations, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S, NCC , ACS, MAC SAP
El Paso, TX 79925
Positive Innovations, LLC., is a counseling and consulting firm offering solutions for behavioral health and organizational management issues. Our team of dedicated providers are especially skilled in behavioral health interventions and organizational management practices. Our suites of services are designed to provide you with the flexibility to meet your individual needs. You will find our team to be genuine and supportive. We look forward to collaborating with you along your journey to achieve your personal or professional goals.
Positive Innovations, LLC., is a counseling and consulting firm offering solutions for behavioral health and organizational management issues. Our team of dedicated providers are especially skilled in behavioral health interventions and organizational management practices. Our suites of services are designed to provide you with the flexibility to meet your individual needs. You will find our team to be genuine and supportive. We look forward to collaborating with you along your journey to achieve your personal or professional goals.
(915) 209-4776 View (915) 209-4776
Photo of Valerie N Barela, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Valerie N Barela
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Through my work in the mental health field I have developed a strong belief in three things. First, the power we hold within ourselves. Second, the healing that occurs when we interact with ourselves and others with respect and authenticity. Third, that change is possible for anyone willing and brave enough to try something different. I introduce various coping skills, mindfulness options, and grounding techniques that support process work and change.
Through my work in the mental health field I have developed a strong belief in three things. First, the power we hold within ourselves. Second, the healing that occurs when we interact with ourselves and others with respect and authenticity. Third, that change is possible for anyone willing and brave enough to try something different. I introduce various coping skills, mindfulness options, and grounding techniques that support process work and change.
(915) 900-5331 View (915) 900-5331
Photo of Christal Eileen Gonzalez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Christal Eileen Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Are you tired of feeling trapped by the weight of your past? Do memories of childhood trauma or relentless anxiety keep you from living the life you deserve? It's time to shatter those chains and reclaim your power. Therapy isn't just about managing symptoms but it's about rewriting your story, finding healing, and unlocking the resilience within you. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, turning your pain into purpose and guiding you towards a future filled with hope and possibility.
Are you tired of feeling trapped by the weight of your past? Do memories of childhood trauma or relentless anxiety keep you from living the life you deserve? It's time to shatter those chains and reclaim your power. Therapy isn't just about managing symptoms but it's about rewriting your story, finding healing, and unlocking the resilience within you. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, turning your pain into purpose and guiding you towards a future filled with hope and possibility.
(915) 975-5422 View (915) 975-5422
Photo of Melissa D Salmon, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NPT-C
Melissa D Salmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NPT-C
El Paso, TX 79925
Waitlist for new clients
As a compassionate and experienced Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I specialize in providing holistic psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families navigating trauma. With a background spanning over a decade, I have spent ten years as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and have dedicated my career to supporting clients in overcoming relationship issues, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. Originally from Los Angeles, California, I have been serving the El Paso community for the past nine years. My approach combines empathy, expertise, and a deep commitment to helping clients heal find balance.
As a compassionate and experienced Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I specialize in providing holistic psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families navigating trauma. With a background spanning over a decade, I have spent ten years as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and have dedicated my career to supporting clients in overcoming relationship issues, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. Originally from Los Angeles, California, I have been serving the El Paso community for the past nine years. My approach combines empathy, expertise, and a deep commitment to helping clients heal find balance.
(915) 666-9241 View (915) 666-9241
Photo of Marjorie Kindelan-Ray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marjorie Kindelan-Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
At one point or another in your life, you may have told yourself, “I need therapy, or I need to talk to a therapist,” which is probably how you ended up here. The truth is that people seek therapy for various reasons: stress/anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, career changes, emotion management, self-esteem, relationships, or general women or men issues. Regardless of the reason, one of the most important things is recognizing that you need help and seeking that assistance. It’s scary to notice when you’re struggling and even scarier to reach out for help.
At one point or another in your life, you may have told yourself, “I need therapy, or I need to talk to a therapist,” which is probably how you ended up here. The truth is that people seek therapy for various reasons: stress/anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, career changes, emotion management, self-esteem, relationships, or general women or men issues. Regardless of the reason, one of the most important things is recognizing that you need help and seeking that assistance. It’s scary to notice when you’re struggling and even scarier to reach out for help.
(404) 991-3500 View (404) 991-3500
Photo of Rebekah Anne House, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Rebekah Anne House
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
As a dedicated family and couples therapist based in Texas, I focus on helping families and couples navigate the complexities of relationships with understanding and empathy. My work is rooted in experience with adoption, family systems, and adolescent development, providing me with a unique perspective on the challenges that families often face.
As a dedicated family and couples therapist based in Texas, I focus on helping families and couples navigate the complexities of relationships with understanding and empathy. My work is rooted in experience with adoption, family systems, and adolescent development, providing me with a unique perspective on the challenges that families often face.
(915) 277-4616 View (915) 277-4616

See more therapy options for El Paso County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in El Paso County, TX

600+

Average cost per session

$119

Therapists in El Paso County, TX who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
91% Social Anxiety
91% Health Anxiety
91% Driving Anxiety
86% Depression
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
85% Cigna and Evernorth
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in El Paso County, TX see their clients

51% Online Only
49% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in El Paso County?

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.