Therapists in Lakeway, TX

Photo of Andrea Albalawi, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Albalawi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734  (Online Only)
Feeling hopeless? Depressed? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Angry? Looking for a safe space talk, process and heal? I will support you on your journey to healing and better health. I will help you tap into your own strengths and resources, support your healing in yourself, your relationships, and provide you with the tools to do so, through a trauma-informed approach. Together, we will co-create a plan that allows you to regain control over your circumstances and feel positive about the future. I encourage you to feel hopeful about your future. I look forward to working with you.
Feeling hopeless? Depressed? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Angry? Looking for a safe space talk, process and heal? I will support you on your journey to healing and better health. I will help you tap into your own strengths and resources, support your healing in yourself, your relationships, and provide you with the tools to do so, through a trauma-informed approach. Together, we will co-create a plan that allows you to regain control over your circumstances and feel positive about the future. I encourage you to feel hopeful about your future. I look forward to working with you.
(512) 881-6355 View (512) 881-6355
Photo of Leslie Doctor, LCSW-S, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Doctor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
I work with adults, children and adolescent who struggle with stress, self-esteem, difficult behaviors, screen time/technology addiction, history of trauma or abuse, relationships, school or big life transition such as divorce, death, or illness - or those with anxiety or depression with no known trigger. I provide a safe therapeutic space to work through emotions and build on coping strategies. While much of my practice is dedicated to child/adolescent clients, I see adults and couples, especially those impacted by cancer, bereavement, neurodiversity (ADHD/Gifted/2e/Autistic) burnout, addictions, trauma or parenting concerns.
I work with adults, children and adolescent who struggle with stress, self-esteem, difficult behaviors, screen time/technology addiction, history of trauma or abuse, relationships, school or big life transition such as divorce, death, or illness - or those with anxiety or depression with no known trigger. I provide a safe therapeutic space to work through emotions and build on coping strategies. While much of my practice is dedicated to child/adolescent clients, I see adults and couples, especially those impacted by cancer, bereavement, neurodiversity (ADHD/Gifted/2e/Autistic) burnout, addictions, trauma or parenting concerns.
(512) 814-7946 View (512) 814-7946
Photo of Pamela Gates, MA, LPCS, LCDC, ADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Gates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, LCDC, ADCIII
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734  (Online Only)
Do you need someone to talk to and to find solutions to painful emotions and behaviors that are hurting you, your relationships and negatively impacting your quality of life? Call me, I can help. I have experience with most psychological disorders and difficult life circumstances and have helped individuals and families successfully cope with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma recovery, and substance abuse and addiction issues both within self or in the family. I have worked in a variety of settings as a clinician, supervisor, manager and director both before and after starting my own private practice in 2000.
Do you need someone to talk to and to find solutions to painful emotions and behaviors that are hurting you, your relationships and negatively impacting your quality of life? Call me, I can help. I have experience with most psychological disorders and difficult life circumstances and have helped individuals and families successfully cope with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma recovery, and substance abuse and addiction issues both within self or in the family. I have worked in a variety of settings as a clinician, supervisor, manager and director both before and after starting my own private practice in 2000.
(512) 607-7221 View (512) 607-7221
Photo of Virginia Spencer, MEd
Virginia Spencer
MEd
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
Negotiating for what you need is part of life. Whether you are at work and preparing for a difficult conversation with your boss or, in the middle of a family conflict, you might want to avoid those conversations. Even worse, you worry about what isn't being said and don't have the skills to discover the intentions of the other person. At best, you may be struggling with a relationship breakdown and in need of communication repair.
Negotiating for what you need is part of life. Whether you are at work and preparing for a difficult conversation with your boss or, in the middle of a family conflict, you might want to avoid those conversations. Even worse, you worry about what isn't being said and don't have the skills to discover the intentions of the other person. At best, you may be struggling with a relationship breakdown and in need of communication repair.
(512) 886-6866 View (512) 886-6866
Photo of Dr. Eugenia Jennie Barr - Dr. Eugenia Barr  Austin Sports Behavioral Health , PhD, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Eugenia Barr Austin Sports Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
Sports challenges are unique. Understanding the connection between mind and body, and the role played by attitude, emotions, and perspective in achieving excellence is just as important as physical training. Our therapists are specifically trained on the nuances of working with athletes and their issues, which may include: sports performance & anxiety, injury & recovery, body image & eating disorders, post-sports transition, trauma, competition. We know disappointment is not failure. It is the opportunity to move forward into success, much like the mythical Phoenix rising above 'what is' to achieve 'what can be.'
Sports challenges are unique. Understanding the connection between mind and body, and the role played by attitude, emotions, and perspective in achieving excellence is just as important as physical training. Our therapists are specifically trained on the nuances of working with athletes and their issues, which may include: sports performance & anxiety, injury & recovery, body image & eating disorders, post-sports transition, trauma, competition. We know disappointment is not failure. It is the opportunity to move forward into success, much like the mythical Phoenix rising above 'what is' to achieve 'what can be.'
(512) 601-4325 View (512) 601-4325
Photo of Mary Osborne - Creating Tranquil Paths - Mary Osborne , LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Creating Tranquil Paths - Mary Osborne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734  (Online Only)
Has caregiving become your prominent role? Are you part of the sandwich generation? Are you squeezed between caring for a child/grandchild and aging parents, relatives, siblings, or friends? Middle-aged women are increasingly faced with caring for multiple generations within a family system. Nearly half of middle-aged Americans are currently experiencing this “sandwiched” effect, including the anxiety and grief that goes along with it.
Has caregiving become your prominent role? Are you part of the sandwich generation? Are you squeezed between caring for a child/grandchild and aging parents, relatives, siblings, or friends? Middle-aged women are increasingly faced with caring for multiple generations within a family system. Nearly half of middle-aged Americans are currently experiencing this “sandwiched” effect, including the anxiety and grief that goes along with it.
(737) 510-7667 View (737) 510-7667
Photo of Grace Turner, MS, LPC-A
Grace Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
My goal is to assist you in your journey of life, whether that be to work through hardships, make steps towards short or long-term goals, or to simply understand yourself and the world around you. I aim to develop a safe, supportive, and comfortable space in which a collaborative relationship can be formed. My modalities of therapy include humanistic and existential theories, cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, and mindfulness. Always remember that you are the expert of your mind, in both therapy and life. I am supervised by Jan C. Shope, MA, LPC-S.
My goal is to assist you in your journey of life, whether that be to work through hardships, make steps towards short or long-term goals, or to simply understand yourself and the world around you. I aim to develop a safe, supportive, and comfortable space in which a collaborative relationship can be formed. My modalities of therapy include humanistic and existential theories, cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, and mindfulness. Always remember that you are the expert of your mind, in both therapy and life. I am supervised by Jan C. Shope, MA, LPC-S.
(512) 746-7999 View (512) 746-7999
Photo of Ashley Laird, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Laird
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
As a counselor I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients feel seen, heard and accepted. I want to help individuals in their journey through healing, and I believe that process begins with trust and genuineness from one’s therapist.
As a counselor I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients feel seen, heard and accepted. I want to help individuals in their journey through healing, and I believe that process begins with trust and genuineness from one’s therapist.
(737) 264-7445 View (737) 264-7445
Photo of Maria Fishel, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist
Maria Fishel
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
Overwhelmed? Tired of the same old patterns in your life? Doubting yourself or your decisions? Lost hope? Feeling disconnected from others and your goals? Let me be your guide through life's intersections. I believe we all can benefit from professional support at some point in our lives. Why not start now? My approach is supportive, empathetic, direct, and collaborative. I tailor my counseling to your needs. I welcome traditional and nontraditional individuals, and anyone who feels marginalized, isolated, or undervalued. Together, we'll work on building connections and finding solutions, one step at a time.
Overwhelmed? Tired of the same old patterns in your life? Doubting yourself or your decisions? Lost hope? Feeling disconnected from others and your goals? Let me be your guide through life's intersections. I believe we all can benefit from professional support at some point in our lives. Why not start now? My approach is supportive, empathetic, direct, and collaborative. I tailor my counseling to your needs. I welcome traditional and nontraditional individuals, and anyone who feels marginalized, isolated, or undervalued. Together, we'll work on building connections and finding solutions, one step at a time.
(512) 649-2180 View (512) 649-2180
Photo of Abigail Stancik, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Stancik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We all have periods of time in our lives where we experience struggle. The pain of feeling that we are unworthy of love and belonging and the constant comparison between ourselves and others can make daily life difficult. We all need someone who will listen, validate and be a part of our many emotions depending on what's happening in our lives. I feel that everyone is capable of finding and maintaining the best version of ourselves when we take the time to examine the barriers in our own lives.
We all have periods of time in our lives where we experience struggle. The pain of feeling that we are unworthy of love and belonging and the constant comparison between ourselves and others can make daily life difficult. We all need someone who will listen, validate and be a part of our many emotions depending on what's happening in our lives. I feel that everyone is capable of finding and maintaining the best version of ourselves when we take the time to examine the barriers in our own lives.
(512) 572-5010 View (512) 572-5010
Photo of Natalie Dickey, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie Dickey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78738
Open for NEW clients! Your deep emotions of guilt, pain, hopelessness, and sadness are not forever. Expending all your energy, worrying about the needs of others, striving to meet the never-ending demands and unreachable standards is not forever! This is not your forever! Together we will work to help you find joy and fulfillment in life again. We will examine how past experiences have influenced the lens you experience the world while working to regulate and manage your future.
Open for NEW clients! Your deep emotions of guilt, pain, hopelessness, and sadness are not forever. Expending all your energy, worrying about the needs of others, striving to meet the never-ending demands and unreachable standards is not forever! This is not your forever! Together we will work to help you find joy and fulfillment in life again. We will examine how past experiences have influenced the lens you experience the world while working to regulate and manage your future.
(512) 546-6850 View (512) 546-6850
Photo of Stephanie McIntyre, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie McIntyre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
My practice embraces an all-encompassing approach toward making changes in multiple areas of your life based on Albert Ellis's theory of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Ellis believed that if you change your thinking, you can change your life. I believe it is important to explore multiple areas of your life and the beliefs you act upon in order to discover opportunities where you can implement empowering changes. I practice from a Christian perspective but welcome clients from any faith. I want my clients to feel empowered, encouraged and educated during the counseling process.
My practice embraces an all-encompassing approach toward making changes in multiple areas of your life based on Albert Ellis's theory of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Ellis believed that if you change your thinking, you can change your life. I believe it is important to explore multiple areas of your life and the beliefs you act upon in order to discover opportunities where you can implement empowering changes. I practice from a Christian perspective but welcome clients from any faith. I want my clients to feel empowered, encouraged and educated during the counseling process.
(512) 649-0150 View (512) 649-0150
Photo of Lauren Yelvington, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Yelvington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78738
Therapy is one of the most valuable measures of self-care one can take to live a well-balanced life. I am honored to support my clients as they navigate rocky or unfamiliar waters during periods of adjustment, anxiety and depression. These seasons of our lives can feel unsettling and cause us to feel “stuck” in an unpleasant place. Fortunately, they also present us with the opportunity for growth toward a more rewarding life. Unveiling anxiety, depression, unsettling thoughts, insecurities, trauma and disappointment requires courage- I commend you for taking this first step!
Therapy is one of the most valuable measures of self-care one can take to live a well-balanced life. I am honored to support my clients as they navigate rocky or unfamiliar waters during periods of adjustment, anxiety and depression. These seasons of our lives can feel unsettling and cause us to feel “stuck” in an unpleasant place. Fortunately, they also present us with the opportunity for growth toward a more rewarding life. Unveiling anxiety, depression, unsettling thoughts, insecurities, trauma and disappointment requires courage- I commend you for taking this first step!
(512) 400-3768 View (512) 400-3768
Photo of Mary W. Firme, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary W. Firme
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734  (Online Only)
Life's a journey, with many unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes we need someone to talk to, someone to share our thoughts and feelings, dreams and fears, and help guide us toward resolution. I want to help my clients navigate this path, and to also experience the possibilities of living their best life possible. I work with older teens and adults, and also specialize in women's issues across the lifespan, as well as those with health concerns. College students are a special interest, as are educators, as I’ve worked as a teacher and school counselor and understand the stress and dynamics associated with the profession.
Life's a journey, with many unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes we need someone to talk to, someone to share our thoughts and feelings, dreams and fears, and help guide us toward resolution. I want to help my clients navigate this path, and to also experience the possibilities of living their best life possible. I work with older teens and adults, and also specialize in women's issues across the lifespan, as well as those with health concerns. College students are a special interest, as are educators, as I’ve worked as a teacher and school counselor and understand the stress and dynamics associated with the profession.
(512) 361-5322 View (512) 361-5322
Photo of Ashley Loeffel, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Loeffel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
Are you looking for someone to support you on your journey towards improving your mental health? Life can be very difficult and overwhelming at times. I have provided counseling in many different settings, including an eating disorder clinic, a residential treatment center for adolescents in the foster care system, a treatment center for adults with substance use disorder and a center for survivors of torture, working with refugees and asylum seekers. Currently, I am working towards obtaining my play therapist credentialing and work with kiddos as young as 7!
Are you looking for someone to support you on your journey towards improving your mental health? Life can be very difficult and overwhelming at times. I have provided counseling in many different settings, including an eating disorder clinic, a residential treatment center for adolescents in the foster care system, a treatment center for adults with substance use disorder and a center for survivors of torture, working with refugees and asylum seekers. Currently, I am working towards obtaining my play therapist credentialing and work with kiddos as young as 7!
(512) 886-9417 View (512) 886-9417
Photo of Shelley Buresh Coleman, MA, LPC-S, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley Buresh Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist with 16 years of clinical experience, 10 years of business management experience, and 20 years of parenting experience. The concentration of my work is with children, adolescents, and families. I am fortunate to have worked in foster care, psychiatric inpatient care, and outpatient settings with these populations. My practice is equipped with a therapeutic play room and I provide services for children as young as 3.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist with 16 years of clinical experience, 10 years of business management experience, and 20 years of parenting experience. The concentration of my work is with children, adolescents, and families. I am fortunate to have worked in foster care, psychiatric inpatient care, and outpatient settings with these populations. My practice is equipped with a therapeutic play room and I provide services for children as young as 3.
(405) 384-4857 View (405) 384-4857
Photo of Drake Scallon, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Drake Scallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone deserves a life they can enjoy. Together, we can address the past and present to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. When circumstances become challenging, and as purpose and meaning lose their luster, having a reliable support system can make all the difference. With a background in assisting youth (ages 6-18), families, couples, and adults, I promise to provide quality care that is intentional and transformational.
Everyone deserves a life they can enjoy. Together, we can address the past and present to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. When circumstances become challenging, and as purpose and meaning lose their luster, having a reliable support system can make all the difference. With a background in assisting youth (ages 6-18), families, couples, and adults, I promise to provide quality care that is intentional and transformational.
(512) 764-3439 View (512) 764-3439
Photo of Lori Sheffield, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Sheffield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
Reaching out to ask for help when we are struggling is one of the biggest favors we can do for ourselves. Just as our physical health is important to maintain functioning in every day life, so is our mental health and well being. I strive to help clients get back to finding their optimal balance in life by addressing concerns they have in all aspects of their life whether it be relationship and interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues or trauma that is preventing them from living their best life.
Reaching out to ask for help when we are struggling is one of the biggest favors we can do for ourselves. Just as our physical health is important to maintain functioning in every day life, so is our mental health and well being. I strive to help clients get back to finding their optimal balance in life by addressing concerns they have in all aspects of their life whether it be relationship and interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues or trauma that is preventing them from living their best life.
(512) 960-3445 View (512) 960-3445
Photo of Colleen Jensen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen Jensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
Whether it's challenging life transitions, a traumatic experience or lifelong harmful beliefs and behaviors that are prompting you to seek therapy, you're one step closer to your personal journey of growth and healing. Fear of change is natural, but can prevent us from letting go of beliefs, behaviors, and ways of being that are no longer beneficial to us. I work with individuals, adolescents and couples using complimentary approaches personalized to your specific needs in a compassionate and safe space. I have experience working with addiction, relationship issues, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, emotional abuse and trauma.
Whether it's challenging life transitions, a traumatic experience or lifelong harmful beliefs and behaviors that are prompting you to seek therapy, you're one step closer to your personal journey of growth and healing. Fear of change is natural, but can prevent us from letting go of beliefs, behaviors, and ways of being that are no longer beneficial to us. I work with individuals, adolescents and couples using complimentary approaches personalized to your specific needs in a compassionate and safe space. I have experience working with addiction, relationship issues, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, emotional abuse and trauma.
(909) 906-9091 View (909) 906-9091
Photo of Denise Kotsonis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Kotsonis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734
Hello and welcome! Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or looking for a fresh perspective, you’ve taken a significant step towards well-being and personal growth. I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals across all stages of life navigate the challenges that come with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
Hello and welcome! Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or looking for a fresh perspective, you’ve taken a significant step towards well-being and personal growth. I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals across all stages of life navigate the challenges that come with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
(512) 980-3690 View (512) 980-3690
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lakeway, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Lakeway, TX who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
93% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
70% Grief
64% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
70% BlueCross and BlueShield
58% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Lakeway, TX see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lakeway?

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.