Therapists in Blacksburg, VA

Photo of Brianne Burden, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brianne Burden
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
I believe, that most often times, it takes an individual to experience significant pain or dissatisfaction in their life in order for them to pursue counseling and change. I understand that the step to reach out and ask for assistance with life’s issues is a huge step and I do not take that lightly. As your therapist, it is my commitment to come along side of you and support you through the more challenging times in life.
I believe, that most often times, it takes an individual to experience significant pain or dissatisfaction in their life in order for them to pursue counseling and change. I understand that the step to reach out and ask for assistance with life’s issues is a huge step and I do not take that lightly. As your therapist, it is my commitment to come along side of you and support you through the more challenging times in life.
(540) 215-7654 View (540) 215-7654
Photo of Jenny Orr, MS, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jenny Orr
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060
I believe in the importance of building a meaningful connection with clients, and I prioritize empathy and support in those client-therapist relationships. I am passionate about helping people navigate perinatal concerns such as infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, birth trauma, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I also have experience with grief and loss, anxiety, and depression, and I am committed to providing affirming care to the LGBTQIA+ population.
I believe in the importance of building a meaningful connection with clients, and I prioritize empathy and support in those client-therapist relationships. I am passionate about helping people navigate perinatal concerns such as infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, birth trauma, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I also have experience with grief and loss, anxiety, and depression, and I am committed to providing affirming care to the LGBTQIA+ population.
(540) 358-8682 View (540) 358-8682
Photo of Melissa Douglas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Douglas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Everyone needs a place for space. A space to be heard. A space to share whatever you want. A space to process feelings, try out new perspectives, laugh, cry, grieve, be angry, talk about betrayal, to fight inner demons, to be brave, to be nervous, to simply BE whoever you are. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience providing space for people to process whatever they are dealing with. People come to me with a wide range of different issues. I am an eclectic therapist but tend to focus on using cognitive behavioral therapy. I love to meet new people, and I would love to work with you.
Everyone needs a place for space. A space to be heard. A space to share whatever you want. A space to process feelings, try out new perspectives, laugh, cry, grieve, be angry, talk about betrayal, to fight inner demons, to be brave, to be nervous, to simply BE whoever you are. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience providing space for people to process whatever they are dealing with. People come to me with a wide range of different issues. I am an eclectic therapist but tend to focus on using cognitive behavioral therapy. I love to meet new people, and I would love to work with you.
(540) 274-4495 View (540) 274-4495
Photo of Stephanie A. Fearer, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Stephanie A. Fearer
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Not accepting new clients
I welcome the opportunity to work with individuals looking for help with issues including substance use, depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma, life transition, and more. I offer individual sessions for adults as well as couple sessions. I enjoy working with clients from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.
I welcome the opportunity to work with individuals looking for help with issues including substance use, depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma, life transition, and more. I offer individual sessions for adults as well as couple sessions. I enjoy working with clients from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.
(540) 361-6676 View (540) 361-6676
Photo of Hollie O'Connor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hollie O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
Hollie L. O'Connor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and substance use professional with 11 years of experience in the field of mental health and addictions. She is passionate about helping adolescents, teens, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and work toward improving their overall quality of life. Hollie specializes in anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, substance use disorders, borderline personality disorder, major life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship issues. She is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where she served for 6 years during Desert Shield/Desert Storm 2 years in the Reserves.
Hollie L. O'Connor is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and substance use professional with 11 years of experience in the field of mental health and addictions. She is passionate about helping adolescents, teens, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and work toward improving their overall quality of life. Hollie specializes in anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, substance use disorders, borderline personality disorder, major life transitions, grief and loss, and relationship issues. She is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where she served for 6 years during Desert Shield/Desert Storm 2 years in the Reserves.
(540) 579-5359 View (540) 579-5359
Photo of Susan Mitchell, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24063  (Online Only)
Life is hard! So much is beyond our control that just trying to survive can be exhausting. If you are struggling mentally and emotionally, feel overwhelmed or alone, please know you don’t have to continue feeling this way. With more than 25 years in practice, I've helped many clients navigate their way through the dark and emotionally difficult times. In my interactive therapy style, I offer insights, honest yet supportive feedback, effective tools for coping, and HOPE for a brighter future. Together, we will share in the responsibility of getting you to a happier, more peaceful place in your life. The TRUTH is .....
Life is hard! So much is beyond our control that just trying to survive can be exhausting. If you are struggling mentally and emotionally, feel overwhelmed or alone, please know you don’t have to continue feeling this way. With more than 25 years in practice, I've helped many clients navigate their way through the dark and emotionally difficult times. In my interactive therapy style, I offer insights, honest yet supportive feedback, effective tools for coping, and HOPE for a brighter future. Together, we will share in the responsibility of getting you to a happier, more peaceful place in your life. The TRUTH is .....
(910) 601-9685 View (910) 601-9685
Photo of Arielle Emmett, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arielle Emmett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060
I support children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, self-esteem struggles, and difficulty coping with life transitions. I specialize in work with middle school age children navigating mental health challenges. My approach focuses on creating a safe environment to facilitate change and growth- helping you or your child develop emotional awareness, self-regulation, and skills to thrive even within challenges.
I support children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing anxiety, self-esteem struggles, and difficulty coping with life transitions. I specialize in work with middle school age children navigating mental health challenges. My approach focuses on creating a safe environment to facilitate change and growth- helping you or your child develop emotional awareness, self-regulation, and skills to thrive even within challenges.
(540) 502-3070 View (540) 502-3070
Photo of Cynthia Davis May, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Cynthia Davis May
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
I am a Blacksburg native, recently relocated back to the area, and have opened my practice to offer assessment, therapy, and consultation services. I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing difficulties with learning and attention problems, executive functioning issues, and mood and behavioral difficulties, including anxiety, depression, and anger-management. My treatment approach is typically based in cognitive-behavioral interventions, although I consider the personality of the client and the dynamics of the family in order to tailor an effective and goal-directed treatment approach.
I am a Blacksburg native, recently relocated back to the area, and have opened my practice to offer assessment, therapy, and consultation services. I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing difficulties with learning and attention problems, executive functioning issues, and mood and behavioral difficulties, including anxiety, depression, and anger-management. My treatment approach is typically based in cognitive-behavioral interventions, although I consider the personality of the client and the dynamics of the family in order to tailor an effective and goal-directed treatment approach.
(540) 453-8532 View (540) 453-8532
Photo of Julie Neely, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Neely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Julie Neely is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 15 years of professional experience working with children, teens, and adults in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health and school-based environments. She specializes in treating concerns or conditions related to anxiety, anger, depression, chronic stress, ADHD, women's issues, panic-related problems, and spirituality-based issues. Julie earned her Master of Arts (MA) in Counselor Education at Virginia Tech.
Julie Neely is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 15 years of professional experience working with children, teens, and adults in a wide variety of settings, including community mental health and school-based environments. She specializes in treating concerns or conditions related to anxiety, anger, depression, chronic stress, ADHD, women's issues, panic-related problems, and spirituality-based issues. Julie earned her Master of Arts (MA) in Counselor Education at Virginia Tech.
(540) 583-3392 View (540) 583-3392
Photo of Rachel Biesemeyer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Biesemeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Hello, my name is Rachel Biesemeyer, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from all walks of life. My approach to therapy is founded on building a solid therapeutic relationship and integrating coping skills that are practical and helpful with life's struggles. My client focus ranges from children, adolescents to adults from all walks of life. I have treated individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/shame, mood disorders, ADHD, and ODD.
Hello, my name is Rachel Biesemeyer, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from all walks of life. My approach to therapy is founded on building a solid therapeutic relationship and integrating coping skills that are practical and helpful with life's struggles. My client focus ranges from children, adolescents to adults from all walks of life. I have treated individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/shame, mood disorders, ADHD, and ODD.
(757) 992-9471 View (757) 992-9471
Photo of Kati Griggs-Shine Bright Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kati Griggs-Shine Bright Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Waitlist for new clients
I want to provide an environment where you feel like you can be your best self. This happens by providing a safe space for you to feel cozy, welcomed and heard. When you are in the right space and with the right person, it gives you the ability to be open to discuss any issues or concerns to improve and become the best version of you.
I want to provide an environment where you feel like you can be your best self. This happens by providing a safe space for you to feel cozy, welcomed and heard. When you are in the right space and with the right person, it gives you the ability to be open to discuss any issues or concerns to improve and become the best version of you.
(540) 584-8925 View (540) 584-8925
Photo of Dana Diamond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Diamond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Dana holds a Master's Degree in Social Work and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience providing various levels of care to clients. Dana has experience in crisis counseling through a 24/7 program and completing psychiatric evaluations. Dana also has worked with children and families in their homes providing family therapy. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and family conflict. Dana enjoys working with young adults and helping them navigate the many changes that occur during young adulthood.Dana focuses on building rapport with clients and helping clients feel empowered.
Dana holds a Master's Degree in Social Work and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience providing various levels of care to clients. Dana has experience in crisis counseling through a 24/7 program and completing psychiatric evaluations. Dana also has worked with children and families in their homes providing family therapy. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and family conflict. Dana enjoys working with young adults and helping them navigate the many changes that occur during young adulthood.Dana focuses on building rapport with clients and helping clients feel empowered.
(540) 215-2366 View (540) 215-2366
Photo of Alan Willard, PhD, DMin, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alan Willard
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, DMin
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
When life hurts, I can help. Are you struggling with difficulties that have you feeling depressed, angry, worried, or guilty? Are your relationships at home or work in trouble or conflict? I help individuals and couples who are facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, pornography, coping w/chronic illness, sexual problems, PTSD, OCD and much more. I started out my professional career as a church pastor, and in my 40's transitioned into becoming a counselor/therapist. I guide people to get over problems and to be their deeper, higher, and more loving, compassionate self.
When life hurts, I can help. Are you struggling with difficulties that have you feeling depressed, angry, worried, or guilty? Are your relationships at home or work in trouble or conflict? I help individuals and couples who are facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, pornography, coping w/chronic illness, sexual problems, PTSD, OCD and much more. I started out my professional career as a church pastor, and in my 40's transitioned into becoming a counselor/therapist. I guide people to get over problems and to be their deeper, higher, and more loving, compassionate self.
(540) 361-6887 View (540) 361-6887
Photo of Sarah Kate E Valatka, MA, LPC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Kate E Valatka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Not accepting new clients
I'm glad you are here. Life is hard enough with out beating yourself up and telling yourself you suck as a person, friend, partner, parent, child, employee, and on, and on. It's important to find space to give your mind a break from the negative chatter you use to push yourself forward but only holds you back. You have worth. All those to do lists can wait. Start finding moments of peace and connection to others. Take some time to be in the moment and enjoy the right now.
I'm glad you are here. Life is hard enough with out beating yourself up and telling yourself you suck as a person, friend, partner, parent, child, employee, and on, and on. It's important to find space to give your mind a break from the negative chatter you use to push yourself forward but only holds you back. You have worth. All those to do lists can wait. Start finding moments of peace and connection to others. Take some time to be in the moment and enjoy the right now.
(540) 253-1670 View (540) 253-1670
Photo of Cassandra Simpson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassandra Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
Cassandra Simpson is an LPC who has 5 years of experience providing clients with clinical therapeutic assessment and treatment of depression/anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and mood regulation. Cassandra is also specialized in assisting clients who are currently experiencing or have previously endured domestic/intimate partner violence. Cassandra completed her Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Administration of Justice at Northern Arizona University and her Master of Arts (MA) in Professional Counseling at Ottawa University in Phoenix, Arizona.
Cassandra Simpson is an LPC who has 5 years of experience providing clients with clinical therapeutic assessment and treatment of depression/anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and mood regulation. Cassandra is also specialized in assisting clients who are currently experiencing or have previously endured domestic/intimate partner violence. Cassandra completed her Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Administration of Justice at Northern Arizona University and her Master of Arts (MA) in Professional Counseling at Ottawa University in Phoenix, Arizona.
(540) 573-2836 View (540) 573-2836
Photo of Christopher Flynn, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher Flynn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
My therapy practice is built upon foundational beliefs about confidentiality, mutual respect, honesty, and transparency; the therapeutic relationship forms a safe environment in which to explore feelings, worries, distress, and decisions about the future. During my career, I have worked with clients who may be dealing with grief and loss, trauma, emotional distress, and illness. I welcome individuals and couples in therapy who may be dealing with interpersonal difficulties or internal distress. I have been involved in the psychology field as a therapist, professor, supervisor and administrator with a primary focus on therapy.
My therapy practice is built upon foundational beliefs about confidentiality, mutual respect, honesty, and transparency; the therapeutic relationship forms a safe environment in which to explore feelings, worries, distress, and decisions about the future. During my career, I have worked with clients who may be dealing with grief and loss, trauma, emotional distress, and illness. I welcome individuals and couples in therapy who may be dealing with interpersonal difficulties or internal distress. I have been involved in the psychology field as a therapist, professor, supervisor and administrator with a primary focus on therapy.
(540) 329-8124 View (540) 329-8124
Photo of E. Hope Bradbury, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
E. Hope Bradbury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
Feeling upside down? Hopeless? Like you’re a hamster on a spinning wheel, out in the middle of the ocean? Well, that’s okay and I’d love to help you work through these challenges. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable and unconditionally supported as we work together towards solutions. You are in control, you are the expert in your life and I am here to help provide guidance in an unbiased atmosphere, while we work collaboratively to find the balance that brings you peace.
Feeling upside down? Hopeless? Like you’re a hamster on a spinning wheel, out in the middle of the ocean? Well, that’s okay and I’d love to help you work through these challenges. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable and unconditionally supported as we work together towards solutions. You are in control, you are the expert in your life and I am here to help provide guidance in an unbiased atmosphere, while we work collaboratively to find the balance that brings you peace.
(540) 781-0026 View (540) 781-0026
Photo of Sara Marley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Marley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
I believe that life is a process of becoming. With the passing of time, we all change and so our needs and wants within ourselves and within our relationships also change. Are you eager for positive change that improves your relationships with others and allows for new understanding and compassion for yourself? Increased awareness and clarity of unconscious patterns can provide opportunities to heal old wounds and create new paths and shifts towards fulfillment. I encourage prospective clients to give me a call or email to ask questions that might help you determine if my approach is a good fit for your current needs.
I believe that life is a process of becoming. With the passing of time, we all change and so our needs and wants within ourselves and within our relationships also change. Are you eager for positive change that improves your relationships with others and allows for new understanding and compassion for yourself? Increased awareness and clarity of unconscious patterns can provide opportunities to heal old wounds and create new paths and shifts towards fulfillment. I encourage prospective clients to give me a call or email to ask questions that might help you determine if my approach is a good fit for your current needs.
(540) 329-2202 View (540) 329-2202
Photo of Curt Ramsey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Curt Ramsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Not accepting new clients
As your counselor, I’ll guide you through some of your toughest challenges in life with a gentle but “real” approach. Within our counselor-client relationship, I prioritize developing trust and openness, allowing you the freedom to share anything on your mind without fear of judgment or criticism. I've enjoyed my work with college students tremendously. I often see people struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or just dealing with the stress of life.
As your counselor, I’ll guide you through some of your toughest challenges in life with a gentle but “real” approach. Within our counselor-client relationship, I prioritize developing trust and openness, allowing you the freedom to share anything on your mind without fear of judgment or criticism. I've enjoyed my work with college students tremendously. I often see people struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or just dealing with the stress of life.
(540) 701-4379 View (540) 701-4379
Photo of Lakeisha Henry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lakeisha Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blacksburg, VA 24060  (Online Only)
Are you looking for support in increasing your ability to function to your fullest potential, improve your overall mood and motivation as well as learn new techniques to help combat anxiety and manage stress? Contact me! It is my mission to provide professional, specialized, research-based support to individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and low self-esteem. I was led to this field because I find enjoyment in motivating others and witnessing improvements in other's quality of life and relationships based on the treatment I am able to provide.
Are you looking for support in increasing your ability to function to your fullest potential, improve your overall mood and motivation as well as learn new techniques to help combat anxiety and manage stress? Contact me! It is my mission to provide professional, specialized, research-based support to individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, and low self-esteem. I was led to this field because I find enjoyment in motivating others and witnessing improvements in other's quality of life and relationships based on the treatment I am able to provide.
(757) 866-3143 View (757) 866-3143

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Blacksburg, VA

100+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Blacksburg, VA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
69% Self Esteem
69% Stress
68% Relationship Issues
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
76% Anthem
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Blacksburg, VA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Blacksburg?

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.