Therapists in Lakeway, TX

Photo of Pamela Gates, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, LCDC, ADCIII
Pamela Gates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, LCDC, ADCIII
Online Only
Seeking support can be a big step and I strive to create a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard and understood. I work with adults of all ages, from young adults to seniors who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, substance use and recovery (both personal and familial) chronic pain, and life transitions.
Seeking support can be a big step and I strive to create a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard and understood. I work with adults of all ages, from young adults to seniors who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, substance use and recovery (both personal and familial) chronic pain, and life transitions.
(512) 607-7221 View (512) 607-7221
Photo of Jan Shope - Lake Travis Counseling Connection PLLC- Jan Shope, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Lake Travis Counseling Connection PLLC- Jan Shope
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
3 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
I consider myself privileged, if not honored, to walk through the life journeys of my clients. I work in a collaborative and facilitative manner with those struggling in relationships, or dealing with anxiety, depression, or work/family issues to name a few. Working with couples and post-menopausal women and their individual struggles in their transitions is also something I enjoy. I believe therapy should be client-centered, goal oriented and short term in nature.
I consider myself privileged, if not honored, to walk through the life journeys of my clients. I work in a collaborative and facilitative manner with those struggling in relationships, or dealing with anxiety, depression, or work/family issues to name a few. Working with couples and post-menopausal women and their individual struggles in their transitions is also something I enjoy. I believe therapy should be client-centered, goal oriented and short term in nature.
(512) 772-3377 View (512) 772-3377
Photo of Abigail Stancik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Abigail Stancik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
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 Utkala Maringanti, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MHA, LMFT-A, CST
Utkala Maringanti
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MHA, LMFT-A, CST
2 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
You love your partner, but intimacy and connection feel strained. Repetitive fights, distance, or low desire can leave you feeling stuck and unsure how to move forward. I help couples and individuals repair trust, communicate without blame, and rebuild both emotional and sexual closeness. Together we uncover the patterns holding you back and create practical, compassionate ways to reconnect—with yourself, your partner, and your relationship. Serving Austin, Lakeway, and virtual clients across Texas.
You love your partner, but intimacy and connection feel strained. Repetitive fights, distance, or low desire can leave you feeling stuck and unsure how to move forward. I help couples and individuals repair trust, communicate without blame, and rebuild both emotional and sexual closeness. Together we uncover the patterns holding you back and create practical, compassionate ways to reconnect—with yourself, your partner, and your relationship. Serving Austin, Lakeway, and virtual clients across Texas.
(737) 302-6657 View (737) 302-6657
Photo of Drake Scallon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Drake Scallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
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 adults, couples, and youth (ages 6-18), 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 adults, couples, and youth (ages 6-18), I promise to provide quality care that is intentional and transformational.
(512) 764-3439 View (512) 764-3439
Photo of Kelly Pedersen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, PLLC
Kelly Pedersen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, PLLC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been in private practice for 20 years and offer psychotherapy for adults 21 and over. I work with a broad range of issues including anxiety, OCD, life problems, trauma and relationship concerns. I incorporate faith-based principles as desired and am inclusive of all backgrounds and orientations. Typically, I work from a cognitive-behavioral approach and I include other theoretical frameworks to provide more effective outcomes. It would truly be my honor and privilege to help anyone seeking growth and fulfillment in life.
I have been in private practice for 20 years and offer psychotherapy for adults 21 and over. I work with a broad range of issues including anxiety, OCD, life problems, trauma and relationship concerns. I incorporate faith-based principles as desired and am inclusive of all backgrounds and orientations. Typically, I work from a cognitive-behavioral approach and I include other theoretical frameworks to provide more effective outcomes. It would truly be my honor and privilege to help anyone seeking growth and fulfillment in life.
(512) 546-6747 View (512) 546-6747
Photo of Cristina Castro, Psychologist, PhD
Cristina Castro
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78734
Reaching out can be difficult but so worthwhile. Counseling can help to gain a better understanding of our challenges and move us towards change with compassion. Yes, change is possible. Relief from emotional pain is possible. I provide hands-on tools and strategies to address daily struggles while also working towards making connections and gaining insight to change existing, lifelong patterns. Together we can identify what is not working and find new ways to manage your life. I provide a space that feels inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe. I am available for a free 15 minute consultation call. Reach me via email, phone, and text.
Reaching out can be difficult but so worthwhile. Counseling can help to gain a better understanding of our challenges and move us towards change with compassion. Yes, change is possible. Relief from emotional pain is possible. I provide hands-on tools and strategies to address daily struggles while also working towards making connections and gaining insight to change existing, lifelong patterns. Together we can identify what is not working and find new ways to manage your life. I provide a space that feels inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe. I am available for a free 15 minute consultation call. Reach me via email, phone, and text.
(512) 872-4551 View (512) 872-4551
Photo of Catherine Sult, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Catherine Sult
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Lakeway, TX 78738
You’re not imagining it—something has changed between you. The silence feels heavier, the arguments sting deeper, and connection seems just out of reach. If you’re wondering how things got so distant, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck here. My clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure where to turn—but they still hold hope for change. They want healthier communication, more peace in their bodies and minds, and the tools to navigate life with greater clarity and connection.
You’re not imagining it—something has changed between you. The silence feels heavier, the arguments sting deeper, and connection seems just out of reach. If you’re wondering how things got so distant, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck here. My clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure where to turn—but they still hold hope for change. They want healthier communication, more peace in their bodies and minds, and the tools to navigate life with greater clarity and connection.
(512) 399-0241 View (512) 399-0241
Photo of Maria Fishel, Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Maria Fishel
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
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 Megan Boutinen, Psychologist, PhD
Megan Boutinen
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Lakeway, TX 78738
Does life feel like a struggle? Do you feel your relationship or relationships are one challenge after another? Do you recognize unhealthy choices you’re making, but don’t understand why you can’t make different ones? Do you feel uncertain about who you are and where you’re going in life? Are you unhappy? Do you worry often and can’t seem to understand where it’s coming from? These are common experiences I hear from the clients I work with – I enjoy supporting them to resolve these struggles, improve their relationships, and feel more fulfilled and well in their everyday life. Are you ready for a change? I’m here to help!
Does life feel like a struggle? Do you feel your relationship or relationships are one challenge after another? Do you recognize unhealthy choices you’re making, but don’t understand why you can’t make different ones? Do you feel uncertain about who you are and where you’re going in life? Are you unhappy? Do you worry often and can’t seem to understand where it’s coming from? These are common experiences I hear from the clients I work with – I enjoy supporting them to resolve these struggles, improve their relationships, and feel more fulfilled and well in their everyday life. Are you ready for a change? I’m here to help!
(512) 559-3877 View (512) 559-3877
Photo of Andrea Albalawi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, CCM
Andrea Albalawi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, CCM
1 Endorsed
Online Only
When life becomes too much, we may need a safe space talk, process and heal. I will support you on your journey to healing. By tapping into your own strengths and resources, you are capable of healing and recovery. I employ CBT, DBT, CPT, somatic experiencing and trauma-informed care to provide you with therapeutic tools to improve your life while honoring your unique life experience.
When life becomes too much, we may need a safe space talk, process and heal. I will support you on your journey to healing. By tapping into your own strengths and resources, you are capable of healing and recovery. I employ CBT, DBT, CPT, somatic experiencing and trauma-informed care to provide you with therapeutic tools to improve your life while honoring your unique life experience.
(512) 881-6355 View (512) 881-6355
Photo of Michelle Monahan, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC, C-DBT
Michelle Monahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC, C-DBT
Lakeway, TX 78734
Is the idea of going back-to-school weighing on your mental health? Parents, are you struggling with knowing how to help your child? Life can come with challenges and seeking additional support can provide welcomed growth. Let me help you on this journey. My practice offers a safe and reassuring environment in which clients can feel seen, heard, and encouraged to explore their own vulnerabilities. My background and passions are in supporting neurodiverse school-aged children, young adults, and parents to collaborate and make a lasting change. Working together is my goal to develop coping skills, build resilience, and thrive.
Is the idea of going back-to-school weighing on your mental health? Parents, are you struggling with knowing how to help your child? Life can come with challenges and seeking additional support can provide welcomed growth. Let me help you on this journey. My practice offers a safe and reassuring environment in which clients can feel seen, heard, and encouraged to explore their own vulnerabilities. My background and passions are in supporting neurodiverse school-aged children, young adults, and parents to collaborate and make a lasting change. Working together is my goal to develop coping skills, build resilience, and thrive.
(512) 995-7806 View (512) 995-7806
Photo of Dr. Melissa Chapman Pettit - Melissa C Pettit, PhD, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LLC, Veteran
Melissa C Pettit, PhD, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LLC, Veteran
1 Endorsed
Online Only
"Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting different results." ADDICTION & DEPENDENCY result from an unconscious refusal to move through the pain of withdrawal (from a chemical, thought-process, behavior, other person, etc.). The behavior gets repeated, accompanied by cycles of disappointment, shame, GRIEF, frustration and isolation. Having experienced this same cycle (more than once) I bring years of education, training, personal recovery experiences and compassion to our therapeutic relationship. My PERSONAL therapeutic process is on-going. I would be honored to help you in yours. EASY? Nope. WORTH IT? Yes!
"Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting different results." ADDICTION & DEPENDENCY result from an unconscious refusal to move through the pain of withdrawal (from a chemical, thought-process, behavior, other person, etc.). The behavior gets repeated, accompanied by cycles of disappointment, shame, GRIEF, frustration and isolation. Having experienced this same cycle (more than once) I bring years of education, training, personal recovery experiences and compassion to our therapeutic relationship. My PERSONAL therapeutic process is on-going. I would be honored to help you in yours. EASY? Nope. WORTH IT? Yes!
(830) 355-6156 View (830) 355-6156
Photo of Lori Sheffield, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Lori Sheffield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
2 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 Stephanie McIntyre, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Stephanie McIntyre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
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 Mary Osborne - Creating Tranquil Paths - Mary Osborne , Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Creating Tranquil Paths - Mary Osborne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
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 Colleen Jensen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Colleen Jensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
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 Renee C Cross, Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, ACS
Renee C Cross
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, ACS
Online Only
I am an EMDR-certified therapist dedicated to helping you break free from the weight of self-criticism, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and that endless loop of "Did I say something weird?" Whether you're navigating symptoms of complex trauma—like emotional overwhelm, difficulty trusting others, or feeling disconnected—or dealing with anxiety or depression, you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we’ll chart a path toward feeling more empowered, connected, and confident. Using evidence-based practices like EMDR, CBT, and Ego State Therapy, I take a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to guide your healing.
I am an EMDR-certified therapist dedicated to helping you break free from the weight of self-criticism, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and that endless loop of "Did I say something weird?" Whether you're navigating symptoms of complex trauma—like emotional overwhelm, difficulty trusting others, or feeling disconnected—or dealing with anxiety or depression, you don’t have to face it alone. Together, we’ll chart a path toward feeling more empowered, connected, and confident. Using evidence-based practices like EMDR, CBT, and Ego State Therapy, I take a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to guide your healing.
(475) 284-8620 View (475) 284-8620
Photo of Melissa Gaber - Gentle Connections Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Gentle Connections Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). I often feel misunderstood and my emotions are critical to how I relate to myself and others. While I consider it my superpower, I wouldn’t mind a mute button or intensity control knob! I will help you navigate the relationship with yourself and others while learning to love yourself as an HSP.
I am a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). I often feel misunderstood and my emotions are critical to how I relate to myself and others. While I consider it my superpower, I wouldn’t mind a mute button or intensity control knob! I will help you navigate the relationship with yourself and others while learning to love yourself as an HSP.
(512) 866-4328 View (512) 866-4328
Photo of Denise Kotsonis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Denise Kotsonis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
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

See more therapy options for Lakeway

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lakeway, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$167

Therapists in Lakeway, TX who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
64% Grief
62% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
62% BlueCross and BlueShield
61% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Lakeway, TX see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
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.