Therapists in Laredo, TX

Photo of Dr. Adriana Blasco-Rubio, Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC-S
Dr. Adriana Blasco-Rubio
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC-S
Laredo, TX 78041
Life's journey can be challenging at times. You might experience struggles with anxiety, depression, relationships and more. Support and guidance can help you find a better path leading to increased hope, joy and healing. Let's work together to overcome your struggles and grow stronger through the process. Imagine feeling less burdened by life's circumstances, more resilient to challenges, having more gratifying relationships and feeling comfortable being authentically you. Taking the first step and seeking help takes courage. I look forward to working with you and exploring the best path for your own personal growth and well-being.
Life's journey can be challenging at times. You might experience struggles with anxiety, depression, relationships and more. Support and guidance can help you find a better path leading to increased hope, joy and healing. Let's work together to overcome your struggles and grow stronger through the process. Imagine feeling less burdened by life's circumstances, more resilient to challenges, having more gratifying relationships and feeling comfortable being authentically you. Taking the first step and seeking help takes courage. I look forward to working with you and exploring the best path for your own personal growth and well-being.
(956) 247-4775 View (956) 247-4775
Photo of Marisela Canamar, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Marisela Canamar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Laredo, TX 78045
I bring nearly 30 years of clinical experience supporting individuals, children, teens, and families as they navigate some of life’s most difficult and meaningful transitions. My approach is warm and collaborative. I believe therapy should feel safe, encouraging, and insightful in an environment where you can explore your challenges honestly and move toward clarity, stability, and renewed strength. Whether you are facing a major life transition, emotional stress, trauma, medical challenges, or a sense of being stuck, my goal is to guide you toward resilience and a deeper sense of purpose.
I bring nearly 30 years of clinical experience supporting individuals, children, teens, and families as they navigate some of life’s most difficult and meaningful transitions. My approach is warm and collaborative. I believe therapy should feel safe, encouraging, and insightful in an environment where you can explore your challenges honestly and move toward clarity, stability, and renewed strength. Whether you are facing a major life transition, emotional stress, trauma, medical challenges, or a sense of being stuck, my goal is to guide you toward resilience and a deeper sense of purpose.
(956) 363-4731 View (956) 363-4731
Photo of Yazmin S Ijeoma, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Yazmin S Ijeoma
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Whether you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, or major life transitions, I guide them with warmth and clarity. My role is not to tell clients what to do, but to walk alongside them—helping them gain insight, develop healthier coping skills, and strengthen their sense of self. I offer practical tools they can use in daily life, while also creating space for deeper emotional work when they’re ready.
Whether you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, or major life transitions, I guide them with warmth and clarity. My role is not to tell clients what to do, but to walk alongside them—helping them gain insight, develop healthier coping skills, and strengthen their sense of self. I offer practical tools they can use in daily life, while also creating space for deeper emotional work when they’re ready.
(956) 201-7319 View (956) 201-7319
Photo of Rebecca Frances Ramirez, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CSC, LPC, EMDR
Rebecca Frances Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CSC, LPC, EMDR
2 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78045
I am a clinician with life experience working on my second year as a researcher and doctorate student. As a psychotherapist in Texas, my mission is to provide compassionate, trauma-informed care to individuals and families of all ages. I specialize in EMDR therapy, and I am committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of life, whether facing anxiety, depression, grief, bullying, parenting struggles, relationship challenges, aging, divorce, or any other major life transitions, using Humanistic and Gestalt approaches in my practice. I also help parents be a strong advocate for children in special education services.
I am a clinician with life experience working on my second year as a researcher and doctorate student. As a psychotherapist in Texas, my mission is to provide compassionate, trauma-informed care to individuals and families of all ages. I specialize in EMDR therapy, and I am committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of life, whether facing anxiety, depression, grief, bullying, parenting struggles, relationship challenges, aging, divorce, or any other major life transitions, using Humanistic and Gestalt approaches in my practice. I also help parents be a strong advocate for children in special education services.
(956) 431-0669 View (956) 431-0669
Photo of Kristine R Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Kristine R Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Some of us are surviving through life, but are we really living? Life comes with many challenges and obstacles that can impact our mental health and overall well-being. While taking that initiative in seeking counseling can be overwhelming and scary, it is the first step to your journey of healing and that shows strength. Creating a safe space for you to express yourself is of upmost importance to me and I do so by demonstrating genuine empathy and establishing trust in the work I do with clients. I aim to facilitate growth and empowerment by taking a collaborative approach with clients as we go through the therapeutic process.
Some of us are surviving through life, but are we really living? Life comes with many challenges and obstacles that can impact our mental health and overall well-being. While taking that initiative in seeking counseling can be overwhelming and scary, it is the first step to your journey of healing and that shows strength. Creating a safe space for you to express yourself is of upmost importance to me and I do so by demonstrating genuine empathy and establishing trust in the work I do with clients. I aim to facilitate growth and empowerment by taking a collaborative approach with clients as we go through the therapeutic process.
(956) 758-1447 View (956) 758-1447
Photo of Paola Velazquez, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paola Velazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor
2 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
Are you feeling stuck or uncertain about how to begin your journey toward feeling better? Do feelings of being overwhelmed and worried about improving your life make it hard to move forward? Perhaps past challenges are weighing on your sense of worth, leaving you with sadness and low self-esteem. You are not alone. Together, we will explore the emotions and thoughts holding you back and help you rediscover your value beyond your experiences. It's time to feel empowered and take the first step toward healing and growth.
Are you feeling stuck or uncertain about how to begin your journey toward feeling better? Do feelings of being overwhelmed and worried about improving your life make it hard to move forward? Perhaps past challenges are weighing on your sense of worth, leaving you with sadness and low self-esteem. You are not alone. Together, we will explore the emotions and thoughts holding you back and help you rediscover your value beyond your experiences. It's time to feel empowered and take the first step toward healing and growth.
(956) 666-8243 View (956) 666-8243
Photo of Veronica Navarrete, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Veronica Navarrete
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am so glad you are here! Life comes with so many challenges and uncertainties which at times feel overwhelming. I provide a safe space to explore the impact these challenges have on your life so that we can work together to identify ways of improving your overall wellbeing. Within the therapy relationship, you can truly focus on yourself without the fear of being negatively judged or shamed. My approach is strengths-based, and my focus is on supporting individuals wishing to make positive changes in their lives. I am a psychotherapist experienced in conducting therapy with diverse clients, both in English and Spanish.
I am so glad you are here! Life comes with so many challenges and uncertainties which at times feel overwhelming. I provide a safe space to explore the impact these challenges have on your life so that we can work together to identify ways of improving your overall wellbeing. Within the therapy relationship, you can truly focus on yourself without the fear of being negatively judged or shamed. My approach is strengths-based, and my focus is on supporting individuals wishing to make positive changes in their lives. I am a psychotherapist experienced in conducting therapy with diverse clients, both in English and Spanish.
(956) 477-4510 View (956) 477-4510
Photo of Graciela Martinez-Vela - Just Breathe Counseling, Consulting, & Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS LPC, LCDC, NCC, NCAC I, DOT SAP
Just Breathe Counseling, Consulting, & Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS LPC, LCDC, NCC, NCAC I, DOT SAP
Laredo, TX 78041
At Just Breathe Counseling, Consulting, & Coaching, PLLC, I believe everyone has the potential to live a life filled with purpose & fulfillment. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but sometimes, the first step toward healing is as simple as taking a deep breath. Just Breathe serves as a reminder that you have the strength within you to pause, reset, & move forward with clarity & confidence. My counseling services are designed to empower you, helping you unlock your strengths & achieve your most meaningful goals. When you begin your journey with me, we’ll start with a comprehensive evaluation to understand your motivations.
At Just Breathe Counseling, Consulting, & Coaching, PLLC, I believe everyone has the potential to live a life filled with purpose & fulfillment. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but sometimes, the first step toward healing is as simple as taking a deep breath. Just Breathe serves as a reminder that you have the strength within you to pause, reset, & move forward with clarity & confidence. My counseling services are designed to empower you, helping you unlock your strengths & achieve your most meaningful goals. When you begin your journey with me, we’ll start with a comprehensive evaluation to understand your motivations.
(956) 477-4278 View (956) 477-4278
Photo of Daniel Enrique Alvarado - Healthy Alliance Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Healthy Alliance Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
Life and relationships are full of complex decision-making that can leave a person stressed and overwhelmed. The great news is that you are not alone. I can help you understand the human decision process, which will improve both your life and your relationships. I provide counseling services to both individuals and couples experiencing major life stressors such as work issues, major life changes, anxiety, depression, and other existential concerns. Through the therapy process, I can help you reflect on and reduce your stressors to improve your quality of life or relationships.
Life and relationships are full of complex decision-making that can leave a person stressed and overwhelmed. The great news is that you are not alone. I can help you understand the human decision process, which will improve both your life and your relationships. I provide counseling services to both individuals and couples experiencing major life stressors such as work issues, major life changes, anxiety, depression, and other existential concerns. Through the therapy process, I can help you reflect on and reduce your stressors to improve your quality of life or relationships.
(956) 253-1056 View (956) 253-1056
Photo of Hannah Gazelle Padilla, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hannah Gazelle Padilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are past traumas or current triggers making it difficult to be present, enjoy life or make meaningful connections? Do daily challenges leave you feeling submerged or disconnected? You do not have to navigate this alone. My goal is to aide individuals who are trying overcome life’s difficult moments. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, relationship and attachment issues, and a variety of other life challenges. What makes my practice unique is my balance of warmth and gentle challenge. I believe people have the capacity to change and overcome their struggles. I want to help get you there!
Are past traumas or current triggers making it difficult to be present, enjoy life or make meaningful connections? Do daily challenges leave you feeling submerged or disconnected? You do not have to navigate this alone. My goal is to aide individuals who are trying overcome life’s difficult moments. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, relationship and attachment issues, and a variety of other life challenges. What makes my practice unique is my balance of warmth and gentle challenge. I believe people have the capacity to change and overcome their struggles. I want to help get you there!
(956) 396-0041 View (956) 396-0041
Photo of Aracely C Hernandez - Gentle Heart Counseling & Supervision, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Gentle Heart Counseling & Supervision, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Laredo, TX 78041
Perhaps you're down or anxious or maybe you're unsure about the future and feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Maybe you feel unheard, unloved, unappreciated and taken for granted. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support and would love the opportunity to work with you to figure out how to get you to a place that gives you purpose and fulfill your needs.
Perhaps you're down or anxious or maybe you're unsure about the future and feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Maybe you feel unheard, unloved, unappreciated and taken for granted. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support and would love the opportunity to work with you to figure out how to get you to a place that gives you purpose and fulfill your needs.
(956) 628-7634 View (956) 628-7634
Photo of Maria Teresa Valencia, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Maria Teresa Valencia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78045
Have you been feeling down lately or with no motivation? Perhaps you need someone to listen and help you guide you to a brighter path. Losing a loved one, domestic violence, trauma, abuse, parenting stress, and daily stressors can come to a breaking point where you can no longer do it on your own.
Have you been feeling down lately or with no motivation? Perhaps you need someone to listen and help you guide you to a brighter path. Losing a loved one, domestic violence, trauma, abuse, parenting stress, and daily stressors can come to a breaking point where you can no longer do it on your own.
(956) 420-0134 View (956) 420-0134
Photo of Karla Valdez, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Karla Valdez
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
You are struggling to hold everything together, even though you are trying really hard. Your mind feels like it’s always racing, jumping from one thought to another, losing focus easily, and beating yourself up for not being “productive enough.” Or you might be carrying deep pain from past experiences that still feel fresh, as if they just happened. Some days, getting out of bed feels impossible, and the world seems heavy and gray. You crave peace and stability but feel stuck in old patterns. You’re tired of surviving and you want to start healing and feeling like yourself again.
You are struggling to hold everything together, even though you are trying really hard. Your mind feels like it’s always racing, jumping from one thought to another, losing focus easily, and beating yourself up for not being “productive enough.” Or you might be carrying deep pain from past experiences that still feel fresh, as if they just happened. Some days, getting out of bed feels impossible, and the world seems heavy and gray. You crave peace and stability but feel stuck in old patterns. You’re tired of surviving and you want to start healing and feeling like yourself again.
(956) 955-6352 View (956) 955-6352
Photo of Mariana Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Mariana Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
Life is filled with all kinds of ups and downs. At times, it can knock us off our feet and lead us to experience different thoughts and emotions. My approach to therapy is to meet you where you’re at and work our way towards your goals. I aim to create a space that is safe, warm, and non-judgmental to support your growth and healing.
Life is filled with all kinds of ups and downs. At times, it can knock us off our feet and lead us to experience different thoughts and emotions. My approach to therapy is to meet you where you’re at and work our way towards your goals. I aim to create a space that is safe, warm, and non-judgmental to support your growth and healing.
(956) 420-6333 View (956) 420-6333
Photo of Carolina Pellum, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Carolina Pellum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
3 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
When anxiety, emotional overwhelm, or major life changes start to weigh heavily, it's natural to feel lost, stuck, or alone. You might be longing for a space where you feel truly seen, understood, supported and empowered as you work toward meaningful change. Whether you're navigating trauma, neurodivergence, or simply seeking deeper insight and build emotional balance, therapy can be a powerful step toward healing. My goal is to help you reconnect with your inner strengths, build lasting resilience, deepen self-understanding and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life - on your own terms.
When anxiety, emotional overwhelm, or major life changes start to weigh heavily, it's natural to feel lost, stuck, or alone. You might be longing for a space where you feel truly seen, understood, supported and empowered as you work toward meaningful change. Whether you're navigating trauma, neurodivergence, or simply seeking deeper insight and build emotional balance, therapy can be a powerful step toward healing. My goal is to help you reconnect with your inner strengths, build lasting resilience, deepen self-understanding and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life - on your own terms.
(956) 420-7893 View (956) 420-7893
Photo of Nazak Dadashazar - Dr Nazak, LPC-S @ Evolve Psychiatry, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, MBA
Dr Nazak, LPC-S @ Evolve Psychiatry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, MBA
Laredo, TX 78041
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(956) 201-7284 View (956) 201-7284
Photo of Erik E Martinez, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Erik E Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Laredo, TX 78045
I am a licensed Professional Counselor and part of the National Board of Certified Counselors. As well, I am a Professional Psychologist and part of the American Psychological Association with training in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.
I am a licensed Professional Counselor and part of the National Board of Certified Counselors. As well, I am a Professional Psychologist and part of the American Psychological Association with training in Industrial and Organizational Psychology.
(956) 253-7778 View (956) 253-7778
Photo of Alejandra Alcaraz, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Alejandra Alcaraz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78045
Waitlist for new clients
Our journey in life can be really hard, things happen and we fear the worst. Sometimes, we may feel like no one understands us, or can help us. I am here to tell you that there is hope. I have experience working with adults, children, adolescents & infant and toddler mental health. My focus and population of interest is geared towards maternal mental health, parenting and infant & children mental health. I understand that being a mom or new mom is very hard and overwhelming. As well, I also know that there is hope and healing. I feel strongly about educating my clients on the importance of mental health and prioritizing ourselves.
Our journey in life can be really hard, things happen and we fear the worst. Sometimes, we may feel like no one understands us, or can help us. I am here to tell you that there is hope. I have experience working with adults, children, adolescents & infant and toddler mental health. My focus and population of interest is geared towards maternal mental health, parenting and infant & children mental health. I understand that being a mom or new mom is very hard and overwhelming. As well, I also know that there is hope and healing. I feel strongly about educating my clients on the importance of mental health and prioritizing ourselves.
(956) 304-5176 View (956) 304-5176
Photo of Dr. Gustavo Salazar II, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC
Dr. Gustavo Salazar II
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC
3 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
Life is filled with both minor and significant traumatic events—whether it’s the end of a relationship or the loss of a loved one or in-between, it can be overwhelming. Sometimes, feeling overwhelmed can leave us bereft of looking for emotional support, leaving us lonely and isolated.
Life is filled with both minor and significant traumatic events—whether it’s the end of a relationship or the loss of a loved one or in-between, it can be overwhelming. Sometimes, feeling overwhelmed can leave us bereft of looking for emotional support, leaving us lonely and isolated.
(956) 954-3171 View (956) 954-3171
Photo of Chelsea Dickson - Chelsea Dickson, PMHNP @ Evolve Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Is your child struggling with intense emotions, attention issues, or persistent worry? Do you feel like you're constantly walking a tightrope—balancing impulsive outbursts and withdrawn behavior, all while trying to do what’s best for your child? At Evolve Psychiatry, our team partners with both children and parents to understand what’s driving your child’s distress and to create a plan that nurtures emotional growth, resilience, and success — both at home and in school.
Is your child struggling with intense emotions, attention issues, or persistent worry? Do you feel like you're constantly walking a tightrope—balancing impulsive outbursts and withdrawn behavior, all while trying to do what’s best for your child? At Evolve Psychiatry, our team partners with both children and parents to understand what’s driving your child’s distress and to create a plan that nurtures emotional growth, resilience, and success — both at home and in school.
(956) 474-3095 View (956) 474-3095

See more therapy options for Laredo

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Laredo, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Laredo, TX who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
72% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
71% Stress
70% Grief

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
85% Cigna and Evernorth
81% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Laredo, TX see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Laredo?

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.