Therapists in McKinney, TX

Photo of Latrisha Alexander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Latrisha Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Latrisha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience in the field of Social Work. I have significant experience working with teens, adults, and older adults. My experience involves working with individuals with ADHD, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, work-life balance, adjusting to life challenges including loss of independence, and assisting clients with creating boundaries to live a more balanced and healthier life.
Latrisha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience in the field of Social Work. I have significant experience working with teens, adults, and older adults. My experience involves working with individuals with ADHD, anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, work-life balance, adjusting to life challenges including loss of independence, and assisting clients with creating boundaries to live a more balanced and healthier life.
(469) 564-3783 View (469) 564-3783
Photo of Jacqueline Mahoney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Jacqueline Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in Individual Therapy for adults. I have extensive experience helping clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance use disorders.. With over 30 years of experience, I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to offer a personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in Individual Therapy for adults. I have extensive experience helping clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance use disorders.. With over 30 years of experience, I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to offer a personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs.
(972) 433-5809 View (972) 433-5809
Photo of Elizabeth Boudreau Boyer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in McKinney, TX
Elizabeth Boudreau Boyer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Feeling stuck? You know something that happened in the past is affecting you, but you aren’t sure what to do about it. You’ve tried figuring things out and moving forward on your own. Maybe you’ve even tried therapy before, sorted through things with your friends, or read self-help books. Maybe you’re feeling depressed, anxious, or on-edge and you suspect - or know - that it’s related to something that happened in your past. Are you ready for things to change?
Feeling stuck? You know something that happened in the past is affecting you, but you aren’t sure what to do about it. You’ve tried figuring things out and moving forward on your own. Maybe you’ve even tried therapy before, sorted through things with your friends, or read self-help books. Maybe you’re feeling depressed, anxious, or on-edge and you suspect - or know - that it’s related to something that happened in your past. Are you ready for things to change?
(214) 544-9739 View (214) 544-9739
Photo of Angie Beaubrun, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in McKinney, TX
Angie Beaubrun
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, I am passionate about guiding individuals, couples, and/or families on their journey towards personal growth and development. With my background as a first-generation Haitian, I've been fortunate to work with diverse clients in various settings, such as employee assistance programs, mental health treatment facilities, and college campuses. I am also trained in Prepare and Enrich, a program that gives couples and families evidence-based skills and insights to promote healthy connections.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, I am passionate about guiding individuals, couples, and/or families on their journey towards personal growth and development. With my background as a first-generation Haitian, I've been fortunate to work with diverse clients in various settings, such as employee assistance programs, mental health treatment facilities, and college campuses. I am also trained in Prepare and Enrich, a program that gives couples and families evidence-based skills and insights to promote healthy connections.
(972) 928-0593 View (972) 928-0593
Photo of Frank Klosky, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Frank Klosky
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
If you're looking for solid biblical perspective and a listening ear I can provide that. This life throws a lot of curves your way as a believer; marriage, parenting, anxiety, stress, physical issues and so much more. Where does your faith fit into these needs? What does the bible say about your issues? Putting your faith into practice when things are tough isn't easy. Let's work through it together.
If you're looking for solid biblical perspective and a listening ear I can provide that. This life throws a lot of curves your way as a believer; marriage, parenting, anxiety, stress, physical issues and so much more. Where does your faith fit into these needs? What does the bible say about your issues? Putting your faith into practice when things are tough isn't easy. Let's work through it together.
(469) 840-1456 View (469) 840-1456
Photo of CHART Counseling Services PLLC, Kristi Heath, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
CHART Counseling Services PLLC, Kristi Heath
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
“Insanity is continuing to do the same actions and behaviors with a high expectation there will be a different outcome.” If you are tired of feeling like you are going in circles and ending up where you started when it comes to trying to fix your personal and family issues then you are at the right place! Sometimes overwhelming feelings and even emptiness can be so heavy. If you are tired of being weighed down by your own depression, anxiety, and trauma or feeling mentally drained trying to help others resolve theirs than decide to make changes Right NOW! Our goal at CHART Counseling Services is Creating Hope And Restoring Trust.
“Insanity is continuing to do the same actions and behaviors with a high expectation there will be a different outcome.” If you are tired of feeling like you are going in circles and ending up where you started when it comes to trying to fix your personal and family issues then you are at the right place! Sometimes overwhelming feelings and even emptiness can be so heavy. If you are tired of being weighed down by your own depression, anxiety, and trauma or feeling mentally drained trying to help others resolve theirs than decide to make changes Right NOW! Our goal at CHART Counseling Services is Creating Hope And Restoring Trust.
(469) 457-3272 View (469) 457-3272
Photo of Love Therapy Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Love Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I work with people who are ready to make a change, however aren't sure where to start. My clients often find themselves overwhelmed with their daily responsibilities. Most people who start therapy feel like they are going round in circles, repeating negative emotions. They feel they do not always have enough time for self-care. People may describe them as the "strong" or "nice" friend. They find it hard to say no to others. They do not want to be seen as mean or judgement, so they hold back certain parts of their authentic self. They would like to be who they truly are, and not who everyone wants them to be.
I work with people who are ready to make a change, however aren't sure where to start. My clients often find themselves overwhelmed with their daily responsibilities. Most people who start therapy feel like they are going round in circles, repeating negative emotions. They feel they do not always have enough time for self-care. People may describe them as the "strong" or "nice" friend. They find it hard to say no to others. They do not want to be seen as mean or judgement, so they hold back certain parts of their authentic self. They would like to be who they truly are, and not who everyone wants them to be.
(469) 663-9323 View (469) 663-9323
Photo of Scott D Altamirano, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072  (Online Only)
Accepting clients May 2024. I help couples work their way through crisis events by helping them find their feet amist the chaos. My role is to help couples have difficult conversations. With my background is in probation/parole therapy, I bring strong elements of fairness, repair, and rehabilitation to couples who have faced injuries. Some topics I have strong experience in are: infidelity, bisexuality, addiction, codependency, anger management, emotional availability, parenting approach, and lack of sexual intimacy.
Accepting clients May 2024. I help couples work their way through crisis events by helping them find their feet amist the chaos. My role is to help couples have difficult conversations. With my background is in probation/parole therapy, I bring strong elements of fairness, repair, and rehabilitation to couples who have faced injuries. Some topics I have strong experience in are: infidelity, bisexuality, addiction, codependency, anger management, emotional availability, parenting approach, and lack of sexual intimacy.
(469) 472-5167 View (469) 472-5167
Photo of Dr. Desiree L. Stephens, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Dr. Desiree L. Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, TH LMHC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Children often do not have the words to express what they are thinking or feeling. Traditional talk therapy alone is rarely successful in helping children process difficult life situations. I help children overcome anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I also assist parents in building strong, open relationships with their children. If your child is going through anxiety, sadness, behavior problems, social issues, or life changes (divorce, loss of a loved one, etc.) I am happy to walk along side them in their journey. In addition to working with children, I also see teens and adults.
Children often do not have the words to express what they are thinking or feeling. Traditional talk therapy alone is rarely successful in helping children process difficult life situations. I help children overcome anxiety, depression, and other challenges. I also assist parents in building strong, open relationships with their children. If your child is going through anxiety, sadness, behavior problems, social issues, or life changes (divorce, loss of a loved one, etc.) I am happy to walk along side them in their journey. In addition to working with children, I also see teens and adults.
(469) 904-1439 View (469) 904-1439
Photo of Thomas Owusu Asante, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Thomas Owusu Asante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Thomas Lims Owusu-Asante is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCSW, LCAC) who has over 13 years of experience working with adults who are struggling with anger, addiction, life transitions, family issues, anxiety, depression, stress, and more. Thomas holds a Master's degree in Social Work, a Master's degree in Addiction Counseling, and a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. With extensive global travel experience across 15 countries, and exposure to multiple cultures, Thomas is well-versed in the peculiarities of families’ cultural, traditional, and religious backgrounds.
Thomas Lims Owusu-Asante is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCSW, LCAC) who has over 13 years of experience working with adults who are struggling with anger, addiction, life transitions, family issues, anxiety, depression, stress, and more. Thomas holds a Master's degree in Social Work, a Master's degree in Addiction Counseling, and a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. With extensive global travel experience across 15 countries, and exposure to multiple cultures, Thomas is well-versed in the peculiarities of families’ cultural, traditional, and religious backgrounds.
(972) 853-6110 View (972) 853-6110
Photo of Amanda Lerchie, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Amanda Lerchie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Each person has the ability to experience growth and change during the counseling process. My focus is from a Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach. I frequently integrate traditional talk therapy with creative modalities like expressive arts, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy; which helps in creating an authentic, therapeutic space. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I earned a B.A. in Applied Behavioral Sciences from Ashford University and a M.A. in Professional Counseling, from Liberty University.
Each person has the ability to experience growth and change during the counseling process. My focus is from a Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach. I frequently integrate traditional talk therapy with creative modalities like expressive arts, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and mindfulness-based therapy; which helps in creating an authentic, therapeutic space. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I earned a B.A. in Applied Behavioral Sciences from Ashford University and a M.A. in Professional Counseling, from Liberty University.
(972) 703-5627 View (972) 703-5627
Photo of Becki Hein, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Becki Hein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Does fear run your life? Do you plan around the possibility of another panic attack? Anxiety issues steal your peace of mind and self-esteem. The good news is, you can take them back! You CAN learn to control your anxious reactions! According to NIMH, more than 90% of people with an anxiety disorder will make a good recovery if given appropriate treatment. I use a combination of relaxation and body awareness training and cognitive-behavioral interventions when teaching people to get their anxiety under control.
Does fear run your life? Do you plan around the possibility of another panic attack? Anxiety issues steal your peace of mind and self-esteem. The good news is, you can take them back! You CAN learn to control your anxious reactions! According to NIMH, more than 90% of people with an anxiety disorder will make a good recovery if given appropriate treatment. I use a combination of relaxation and body awareness training and cognitive-behavioral interventions when teaching people to get their anxiety under control.
(972) 316-9897 View (972) 316-9897
Photo of Akisha Simon, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Akisha Simon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Imagine living your life with as few regrets as possible; you can have what you see for yourself. Let us work together to help you achieve your goals and reduce barriers to your dreams. Our work will be demanding but rewarding. No one's Journey should be solitary allow me to support and encourage you. The people I help normally struggle with healing from childhood abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, loneliness or feeling as if they are not enough. But when we work together, they learn skills specifically tailored to their healing.
Imagine living your life with as few regrets as possible; you can have what you see for yourself. Let us work together to help you achieve your goals and reduce barriers to your dreams. Our work will be demanding but rewarding. No one's Journey should be solitary allow me to support and encourage you. The people I help normally struggle with healing from childhood abuse, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, loneliness or feeling as if they are not enough. But when we work together, they learn skills specifically tailored to their healing.
(972) 433-9857 View (972) 433-9857
Photo of Scott D Altamirano, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072  (Online Only)
Accepting clients May 2024. I help gay men - from the newly gay to the seasoned queen - navigate and understand topics related to dating monogamously, polyamory, sexual anxiety, fetishes, understanding Grindr, Sniffies, and bathhouses, drugs/alcohol/food/sex as coping, body insecurities, masculinity, developing self esteem, hobbies, and the most importantly - the friends we made along the way.
Accepting clients May 2024. I help gay men - from the newly gay to the seasoned queen - navigate and understand topics related to dating monogamously, polyamory, sexual anxiety, fetishes, understanding Grindr, Sniffies, and bathhouses, drugs/alcohol/food/sex as coping, body insecurities, masculinity, developing self esteem, hobbies, and the most importantly - the friends we made along the way.
(281) 915-2147 View (281) 915-2147
Photo of Krista-Gay Lingo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Krista-Gay Lingo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi, my names Krista and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in NY /TX. I am a Caribbean first generation college grad and a Christian. I understand the struggle of even acknowledging you need help or feeling like God should be enough.
Hi, my names Krista and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in NY /TX. I am a Caribbean first generation college grad and a Christian. I understand the struggle of even acknowledging you need help or feeling like God should be enough.
(214) 239-1835 View (214) 239-1835
Photo of Jessica Utley, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jessica Utley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern in the state of Texas. I obtained my Masters of Science in Family Studies from Texas Woman's University, in addition to a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. I am passionate about helping those who have experienced trauma, and have found joy in working with the unique niche of first responders. When you have suffered trauma and it seems like no one understands, I can guide you in learning how to cope and assist with regaining control of your life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern in the state of Texas. I obtained my Masters of Science in Family Studies from Texas Woman's University, in addition to a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. I am passionate about helping those who have experienced trauma, and have found joy in working with the unique niche of first responders. When you have suffered trauma and it seems like no one understands, I can guide you in learning how to cope and assist with regaining control of your life.
(430) 443-3082 View (430) 443-3082
Photo of Ariel White, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in McKinney, TX
Ariel White
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072
In a world where solitude often overwhelms and purpose seems hard to find, there lies an opportunity for transformation. My ideal client seeks not just support, but a profound rediscovery of their path, a rekindling of passion, and the courage to confront life's hurdles head-on. Whether navigating personal struggles or relational challenges, they are poised to embrace change and emerge stronger. Through a journey of introspection and perspective-shifting, together we unveil new horizons and unlock the potential for a life of fulfillment and meaning.
In a world where solitude often overwhelms and purpose seems hard to find, there lies an opportunity for transformation. My ideal client seeks not just support, but a profound rediscovery of their path, a rekindling of passion, and the courage to confront life's hurdles head-on. Whether navigating personal struggles or relational challenges, they are poised to embrace change and emerge stronger. Through a journey of introspection and perspective-shifting, together we unveil new horizons and unlock the potential for a life of fulfillment and meaning.
View
Photo of Ed Millard, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Ed Millard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
I specialize in working with men around areas of sexual brokenness. I seek to help men change how sexual issues such as pornography, masturbation, anonymous sexual partners and impulse control affect their lives. My ideal client is a man who is struggling sexually, who feels like there is no hope. He thinks that if people really knew what he had done, he would lose the people closest to him. His guilt and shame constantly hound him, and he feels like the cycle of addiction can't be broken. He is looking for hope and a safe place to talk through his problems.
I specialize in working with men around areas of sexual brokenness. I seek to help men change how sexual issues such as pornography, masturbation, anonymous sexual partners and impulse control affect their lives. My ideal client is a man who is struggling sexually, who feels like there is no hope. He thinks that if people really knew what he had done, he would lose the people closest to him. His guilt and shame constantly hound him, and he feels like the cycle of addiction can't be broken. He is looking for hope and a safe place to talk through his problems.
(855) 996-9410 View (855) 996-9410
Photo of Bailey Luna, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Bailey Luna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Registered Art Therapist. I graduated from Notre Dame de Namur University (now Dominican University) in Northern California, where I earned a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy. My experience consists of working with the juvenile justice system, as well as higher level of care including partial hospitalization.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Registered Art Therapist. I graduated from Notre Dame de Namur University (now Dominican University) in Northern California, where I earned a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy. My experience consists of working with the juvenile justice system, as well as higher level of care including partial hospitalization.
(972) 737-9257 View (972) 737-9257
Photo of Katherine Bell (Tx Lic# 71390), Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Katherine Bell (Tx Lic# 71390)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072
Healing can mean diving deep into your past. Those depths can be a scary, painful place, but there’s treasure, too. You're created in God’s image, uniquely wired to be like no one else, with gifts and strengths to discover. I welcome you to a safe space to explore yourself. You’re free to be completely, unashamedly YOU... w/out the masks that hide what's beneath the surface. I'll listen, offer validation, show acceptance/grace, & encourage you to take those first steps towards becoming the YOU God intended. Learn to extend grace to yourself as you discover the life you’ve always wanted. Saturday appts available, BCBS accepted.
Healing can mean diving deep into your past. Those depths can be a scary, painful place, but there’s treasure, too. You're created in God’s image, uniquely wired to be like no one else, with gifts and strengths to discover. I welcome you to a safe space to explore yourself. You’re free to be completely, unashamedly YOU... w/out the masks that hide what's beneath the surface. I'll listen, offer validation, show acceptance/grace, & encourage you to take those first steps towards becoming the YOU God intended. Learn to extend grace to yourself as you discover the life you’ve always wanted. Saturday appts available, BCBS accepted.
(972) 441-7374 View (972) 441-7374

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in McKinney, TX

600+

Average cost per session

$142

Therapists in McKinney, TX who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in McKinney, TX see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in McKinney?

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.