Therapists in Albemarle County, VA

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Photo of Mariel Andersen, Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Mariel Andersen
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Online Only
I, Mariel Andersen, am an LCSW who earned my Master’s from Virginia Commonwealth University. I earned my first Master’s in clinical psychology from the University of Maryland, where my capstone project examined social support during young adulthood transitions. At the University of Virginia, I majored in Cognitive Science while researching perception, virtual reality, and relationships. I have provided services in diverse contexts, focusing on alleviating distress associated with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and existential concerns.
I, Mariel Andersen, am an LCSW who earned my Master’s from Virginia Commonwealth University. I earned my first Master’s in clinical psychology from the University of Maryland, where my capstone project examined social support during young adulthood transitions. At the University of Virginia, I majored in Cognitive Science while researching perception, virtual reality, and relationships. I have provided services in diverse contexts, focusing on alleviating distress associated with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and existential concerns.
(434) 602-6117 View (434) 602-6117
Photo of Jacob Giganti, Resident in Counseling, MA
Jacob Giganti
Resident in Counseling, MA
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I offer individual therapy for teens, college students, and adults with a focus on increasing self-compassion, managing anxiety, and growing from trauma.
I offer individual therapy for teens, college students, and adults with a focus on increasing self-compassion, managing anxiety, and growing from trauma.
(434) 231-2647 View (434) 231-2647
Photo of Angela Green, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Angela Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
8 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Not accepting new clients
You may have learned early on that love and acceptance had to be earned—by staying small, being ‘good,’ or meeting everyone’s needs but your own. But what if you didn’t have to live that way anymore? You are worthy and deserving of connection; it's time to reclaim your voice. As a trauma-informed therapist, I can help you break free from perfectionism, people-pleasing, and self-doubt by rebuilding trust within yourself. I'll use EMDR, Parts Work, Polyvagal theory to help you process past experiences that are keeping you stuck in survival loops, allowing you to feel more confident, empowered, and present in your life.
You may have learned early on that love and acceptance had to be earned—by staying small, being ‘good,’ or meeting everyone’s needs but your own. But what if you didn’t have to live that way anymore? You are worthy and deserving of connection; it's time to reclaim your voice. As a trauma-informed therapist, I can help you break free from perfectionism, people-pleasing, and self-doubt by rebuilding trust within yourself. I'll use EMDR, Parts Work, Polyvagal theory to help you process past experiences that are keeping you stuck in survival loops, allowing you to feel more confident, empowered, and present in your life.
(434) 208-1925 View (434) 208-1925
Photo of Katie Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Katie Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I'll help you build trust in your ability to make the best choices for yourself. This means creating awareness of ways you can be more gentle and accepting of yourself as you are now, in addition to identifying areas that you are ready to change. I work with adults of all ages, and have a particular affinity for working with college-aged individuals and young professionals. I strive to meet people with where they are at by providing trauma-informed, culturally-humble support using evidenced-based modalities. This may include a mix of interpersonal, strengths-based, mindfulness, CBT and DBT techniques.
I'll help you build trust in your ability to make the best choices for yourself. This means creating awareness of ways you can be more gentle and accepting of yourself as you are now, in addition to identifying areas that you are ready to change. I work with adults of all ages, and have a particular affinity for working with college-aged individuals and young professionals. I strive to meet people with where they are at by providing trauma-informed, culturally-humble support using evidenced-based modalities. This may include a mix of interpersonal, strengths-based, mindfulness, CBT and DBT techniques.
(434) 205-6621 View (434) 205-6621
Photo of Andrew C Elgort, Psychologist, EdD
Andrew C Elgort
Psychologist, EdD
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Using a Behavioral, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Solution-Focused approach, I believe that by providing a positive and supportive setting, young people are capable of changing those behaviors that are causing them and/or their family distress. Through discussion and play, young people and their families are able to learn new ways of understanding their problems and to practice new techniques to change their thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs to more positive and productive ones.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Using a Behavioral, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Solution-Focused approach, I believe that by providing a positive and supportive setting, young people are capable of changing those behaviors that are causing them and/or their family distress. Through discussion and play, young people and their families are able to learn new ways of understanding their problems and to practice new techniques to change their thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs to more positive and productive ones.
(434) 595-3187 View (434) 595-3187
Photo of Matthew Christensen, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Matthew Christensen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901
You’ve always known you were different—but that difference hasn’t always felt welcome. Maybe you’ve been told to tone it down, hide your interests, or keep parts of your identity under wraps. Whether you’re kinky, geeky, neurodivergent, queer, or all of the above, you deserve a therapist who gets it. Therapy doesn’t have to mean filtering yourself. I’m here to meet you exactly as you are, with no judgment and no assumptions. Together, we’ll explore the stuck places, process old wounds, and find space for you to breathe, grow, and take up space in the world as your full self.
You’ve always known you were different—but that difference hasn’t always felt welcome. Maybe you’ve been told to tone it down, hide your interests, or keep parts of your identity under wraps. Whether you’re kinky, geeky, neurodivergent, queer, or all of the above, you deserve a therapist who gets it. Therapy doesn’t have to mean filtering yourself. I’m here to meet you exactly as you are, with no judgment and no assumptions. Together, we’ll explore the stuck places, process old wounds, and find space for you to breathe, grow, and take up space in the world as your full self.
(434) 278-6144 View (434) 278-6144
Photo of Eric Mount, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Eric Mount
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Anxiety can feel overwhelming. Trying to manage worry, panic attacks, or obsessive compulsive disorder can be challenging. You may find that the harder you try, the more you fight, the worse it gets. Well meaning friends and family members may try to help by offering advice of their own: Don’t worry about it. Think about something else. Just try to relax. Unfortunately these suggestions are rarely helpful. The truth is, anxiety can be managed. The solutions, however, are often counterintuitive.
Anxiety can feel overwhelming. Trying to manage worry, panic attacks, or obsessive compulsive disorder can be challenging. You may find that the harder you try, the more you fight, the worse it gets. Well meaning friends and family members may try to help by offering advice of their own: Don’t worry about it. Think about something else. Just try to relax. Unfortunately these suggestions are rarely helpful. The truth is, anxiety can be managed. The solutions, however, are often counterintuitive.
(434) 234-4153 View (434) 234-4153
Photo of Jennifer Tweel Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MAmSAT
Jennifer Tweel Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MAmSAT
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I have spent most of my life studying movement. After teaching dance, the Alexander Technique, and breathing coordination for many years, I became astutely aware of the profound relationships between emotions and our biology. My clinical social work practice is deeply rooted in exploring the nervous system and acknowledging patterns within the external systems in which one lives. If you feel stuck in your body or way of thinking, please contact me. If you experience excessive muscular tension, dissociation, or medical diagnoses such as ADHD or autoimmune disease, I believe change and healing are possible.
I have spent most of my life studying movement. After teaching dance, the Alexander Technique, and breathing coordination for many years, I became astutely aware of the profound relationships between emotions and our biology. My clinical social work practice is deeply rooted in exploring the nervous system and acknowledging patterns within the external systems in which one lives. If you feel stuck in your body or way of thinking, please contact me. If you experience excessive muscular tension, dissociation, or medical diagnoses such as ADHD or autoimmune disease, I believe change and healing are possible.
(434) 433-8513 View (434) 433-8513
Photo of Cindy Lerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Cindy Lerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Online Only
So, you're looking for a therapist.... This is one of the most courageous things you can do. It's difficult to look at some names and faces and a paragraph or two of words, and try to decide which of them will be able to help you. But this is an important relationship, so take your time and look for that "goodness-of-fit" that will enable you to find your comfort. My goal is to ask my clients the questions that will help them find their answers. I believe that no one knows you better than you know yourself; oftentimes, there is too much clutter in our lives which can interfere with our ability to see clearly.
So, you're looking for a therapist.... This is one of the most courageous things you can do. It's difficult to look at some names and faces and a paragraph or two of words, and try to decide which of them will be able to help you. But this is an important relationship, so take your time and look for that "goodness-of-fit" that will enable you to find your comfort. My goal is to ask my clients the questions that will help them find their answers. I believe that no one knows you better than you know yourself; oftentimes, there is too much clutter in our lives which can interfere with our ability to see clearly.
(434) 216-6237 View (434) 216-6237
Photo of Jayna Gillespie, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jayna Gillespie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (0701008578) in Virginia. My focus areas of practice include healing from traumatic experiences, adoption, and blended family dynamics, and processing life transitions. My approach to therapy is determined based on the needs of the participant and is personally tailored to ensure the best therapeutic experience. My approach to therapy is determined based on the needs of the participant and is personally tailored to ensure the best therapeutic experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (0701008578) in Virginia. My focus areas of practice include healing from traumatic experiences, adoption, and blended family dynamics, and processing life transitions. My approach to therapy is determined based on the needs of the participant and is personally tailored to ensure the best therapeutic experience. My approach to therapy is determined based on the needs of the participant and is personally tailored to ensure the best therapeutic experience.
(703) 783-7643 View (703) 783-7643
Photo of Anne Oelrich, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Anne Oelrich
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Crozet, VA 22932
Hi! I specialize in working with pre-teens, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, grief, body image, identity, sexuality and more. I have a special interest in working with members of the LGBTQ community. If you our your child is having a hard time with social pressure, adjusting to school or other transitions, sadness, managing daily stressors, and/or identity development, I would love to help. Unfortunately, I do not file with insurance companies. However, I do provide monthly statements for you to submit to your insurer for possible reimbursement.
Hi! I specialize in working with pre-teens, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, grief, body image, identity, sexuality and more. I have a special interest in working with members of the LGBTQ community. If you our your child is having a hard time with social pressure, adjusting to school or other transitions, sadness, managing daily stressors, and/or identity development, I would love to help. Unfortunately, I do not file with insurance companies. However, I do provide monthly statements for you to submit to your insurer for possible reimbursement.
(434) 204-5340 View (434) 204-5340
Photo of Jacob Biggs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jacob Biggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Hi, I'm Jacob! For over ten years, I have worked successfully with adolescents and their families to tackle unique challenges. I strive to help people improve their lives by building personal awareness and instilling healthy habits into their relationships. With a focus on mutual problem-solving, I support those facing difficulties associated with anxiety, depression, family conflict, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Hi, I'm Jacob! For over ten years, I have worked successfully with adolescents and their families to tackle unique challenges. I strive to help people improve their lives by building personal awareness and instilling healthy habits into their relationships. With a focus on mutual problem-solving, I support those facing difficulties associated with anxiety, depression, family conflict, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(434) 800-2259 View (434) 800-2259
Photo of Teswar Wood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Teswar Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlottesville, VA 22911
As a compassionate and thoughtful clinician, I strive to make therapy welcoming, comfortable, and valuable. Starting therapy can seem daunting, but I promise it won't always feel that way. I'm here to help you build or rebuild a life filled with confidence, clarity, focus, and tangible progress. I provide clear, effective guidance and insight to help overcome obstacles and find solutions promptly and specialize in working with clients who are ready to explore personal growth. Flexible payment options are available for those paying out of pocket.
As a compassionate and thoughtful clinician, I strive to make therapy welcoming, comfortable, and valuable. Starting therapy can seem daunting, but I promise it won't always feel that way. I'm here to help you build or rebuild a life filled with confidence, clarity, focus, and tangible progress. I provide clear, effective guidance and insight to help overcome obstacles and find solutions promptly and specialize in working with clients who are ready to explore personal growth. Flexible payment options are available for those paying out of pocket.
(434) 474-1523 View (434) 474-1523
Photo of Lynessa Sheppard Plotnick, Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Lynessa Sheppard Plotnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Online Only
I believe in the human spirit and our capacity to make positive changes in all aspects of our lives, even in the face of adversity. By exploring our thought patterns, we can better identify feelings that affect our actions on a daily basis. We can then make effective changes that improve the quality of our lives, decreasing stress, anxiety, and depression and providing us with a more peaceful and joyful life. I also believe in the benefit of human interaction with other loving creatures; you will meet my little Yorkie-Poo therapy partner, Mojo, when you come to visit me. He loves children and adults.
I believe in the human spirit and our capacity to make positive changes in all aspects of our lives, even in the face of adversity. By exploring our thought patterns, we can better identify feelings that affect our actions on a daily basis. We can then make effective changes that improve the quality of our lives, decreasing stress, anxiety, and depression and providing us with a more peaceful and joyful life. I also believe in the benefit of human interaction with other loving creatures; you will meet my little Yorkie-Poo therapy partner, Mojo, when you come to visit me. He loves children and adults.
(757) 785-0838 View (757) 785-0838
Photo of Valerie Sue Stolicker, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Valerie Sue Stolicker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Everyone can improve and succeed regardless of any struggles or trauma a person may encounter. I aim to help clients heal past traumas, strengthen relationships with themselves and others, work through difficult emotions, and find their inner strength. I believe inherently in the resiliency of the human spirit. We have the power to recover, to heal, to grow, and to learn. My goal is to help you understand the problems that you are facing and allow you the space to solve them so that you may transform into the best version of yourself.
Everyone can improve and succeed regardless of any struggles or trauma a person may encounter. I aim to help clients heal past traumas, strengthen relationships with themselves and others, work through difficult emotions, and find their inner strength. I believe inherently in the resiliency of the human spirit. We have the power to recover, to heal, to grow, and to learn. My goal is to help you understand the problems that you are facing and allow you the space to solve them so that you may transform into the best version of yourself.
(434) 285-9419 View (434) 285-9419
Photo of Andrea Dilley-Frame, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Andrea Dilley-Frame
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22901
I'm Andrea Dilley-Frame, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (SSAC-C), with experience as a former Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (RC-C). I have over 17 years of experience working with adult clients facing various challenges, including grief, life transitional issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, family conflict, and more. I obtained my Master’s of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, VA.
I'm Andrea Dilley-Frame, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (SSAC-C), with experience as a former Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (RC-C). I have over 17 years of experience working with adult clients facing various challenges, including grief, life transitional issues, low self-esteem, sexual abuse, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, anxiety, depression, anger issues, dysfunctional relationships, poor coping skills, family conflict, and more. I obtained my Master’s of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, VA.
(434) 597-3757 View (434) 597-3757
Photo of Andrea Packwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Andrea Packwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Working from an existentialist, trauma-informed, and neurodevelopmentally sensitive lens, I believe we all have the capacity to live meaningful, complete lives. My office is a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, and radically compassionate space in which clients can heal, grow, and explore.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Working from an existentialist, trauma-informed, and neurodevelopmentally sensitive lens, I believe we all have the capacity to live meaningful, complete lives. My office is a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, and radically compassionate space in which clients can heal, grow, and explore.
(434) 443-5251 View (434) 443-5251
Photo of Cynthia Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Cynthia Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
3 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Everyone struggles from time to time - what's important is how we respond to the struggle. I believe struggle turns to suffering when we refuse to accept what we cannot change or when we passively accept what can be changed. In my practice I help people learn to avoid suffering by changing the things they can and accepting the things they can't change. Using a variety of skills and techniques, I help people learn how to thrive - even in the face of struggle - while being true to themselves and effective in their interactions with others.
Everyone struggles from time to time - what's important is how we respond to the struggle. I believe struggle turns to suffering when we refuse to accept what we cannot change or when we passively accept what can be changed. In my practice I help people learn to avoid suffering by changing the things they can and accepting the things they can't change. Using a variety of skills and techniques, I help people learn how to thrive - even in the face of struggle - while being true to themselves and effective in their interactions with others.
(434) 262-4030 View (434) 262-4030
Photo of Akiitha Hagans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Akiitha Hagans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working as a Mental Health Professional. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion, and I don't believe in telling you what to do because you are the expert on you. It takes courage and strength to seek a therapeutic partner and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support, encourage, and empower you. I look forward to working with you! My therapy style is warm, compassionate, and interactive. I have been told I am kind and empathetic but also honest and challenging.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working as a Mental Health Professional. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion, and I don't believe in telling you what to do because you are the expert on you. It takes courage and strength to seek a therapeutic partner and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support, encourage, and empower you. I look forward to working with you! My therapy style is warm, compassionate, and interactive. I have been told I am kind and empathetic but also honest and challenging.
(757) 866-4245 View (757) 866-4245
Photo of Hope Holman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hope Holman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I am a retired Navy veteran and Disabled Vet who earned my Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work at Saint Leo University. My style of counseling is warm, non-judgmental, supportive, and encouraging. My therapeutic approach is strength-based, combining Cognitive-Behavioral and Client-Centered Therapy; however, I am experienced in several other treatment modalities. As your therapist, you can expect a safe place to unpack and process life and all of its difficulties.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I am a retired Navy veteran and Disabled Vet who earned my Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work at Saint Leo University. My style of counseling is warm, non-judgmental, supportive, and encouraging. My therapeutic approach is strength-based, combining Cognitive-Behavioral and Client-Centered Therapy; however, I am experienced in several other treatment modalities. As your therapist, you can expect a safe place to unpack and process life and all of its difficulties.
(571) 609-5083 View (571) 609-5083

See more therapy options for Albemarle County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Albemarle County, VA

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Albemarle County, VA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
73% Self Esteem
70% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
80% Anthem
77% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Albemarle County, VA see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
16% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Albemarle County?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.