Therapists in Keswick, VA

Photo of Shannon Stewart Enold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CCM
Shannon Stewart Enold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CCM
Online Only
I enjoy working with anyone who wants to improve their well-being & overall happiness. Sometimes we are inspired to improve our lives & wish to set goals to accomplish. Other times, life brings unexpected changes that can be overwhelming. I have extensive experience working with couples, military families, oncology & hospice. Survivorship & caregiver fatigue are also near & dear to me.
I enjoy working with anyone who wants to improve their well-being & overall happiness. Sometimes we are inspired to improve our lives & wish to set goals to accomplish. Other times, life brings unexpected changes that can be overwhelming. I have extensive experience working with couples, military families, oncology & hospice. Survivorship & caregiver fatigue are also near & dear to me.
(540) 264-3414 View (540) 264-3414
Photo of January Marshall, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
January Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Keswick, VA 22947
Not accepting new clients
January offers a safe, compassionate environment for clients to be seen and heard. She understands that mental distress is not a condition to be "fixed," but comes alongside each client to guide them in pathways to emotional, relational, and spiritual healing. Though she utilizes a Christian perspectives, January also realizes that every client is on a different spirtiual and life journey, and is experienced in working with persons of every walk of life and faith. She recognizes that emotional distress is universal to all, life is filled with an abundance of storms throughout our lifetimes, and healing is available to all.
January offers a safe, compassionate environment for clients to be seen and heard. She understands that mental distress is not a condition to be "fixed," but comes alongside each client to guide them in pathways to emotional, relational, and spiritual healing. Though she utilizes a Christian perspectives, January also realizes that every client is on a different spirtiual and life journey, and is experienced in working with persons of every walk of life and faith. She recognizes that emotional distress is universal to all, life is filled with an abundance of storms throughout our lifetimes, and healing is available to all.
(434) 231-5089 View (434) 231-5089
Photo of Helen Dempsey-Henofer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Helen Dempsey-Henofer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling out of step with the world you're in makes it hard to show up fully. Whether your world’s been turned upside down or you've just hit a point where something has to give, you're starving for a life that feels more… you. If you're someone who thinks outside the box, colors outside the lines—the words “quirky” or “unique” can be isolating. If this is you, the search for a therapist who gets it can feel especially daunting.
Feeling out of step with the world you're in makes it hard to show up fully. Whether your world’s been turned upside down or you've just hit a point where something has to give, you're starving for a life that feels more… you. If you're someone who thinks outside the box, colors outside the lines—the words “quirky” or “unique” can be isolating. If this is you, the search for a therapist who gets it can feel especially daunting.
(434) 205-3556 View (434) 205-3556
Photo of Jill Cartwright, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jill Cartwright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in the mental health private practice industry since 1998 and licensed since 2000. I provide psychotherapy to adults to help them achieve personal growth, balance, and wellness. I have spent much of my experience working with adolescents and adults. My approach to therapy is primarily cognitive-behavioral emphasizing solution-focused therapy. I include clients in the development of personalized treatment plans and will use a holistic approach, which means I may use different methods to help you meet your goals including reality therapy, family systems therapy and homework.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in the mental health private practice industry since 1998 and licensed since 2000. I provide psychotherapy to adults to help them achieve personal growth, balance, and wellness. I have spent much of my experience working with adolescents and adults. My approach to therapy is primarily cognitive-behavioral emphasizing solution-focused therapy. I include clients in the development of personalized treatment plans and will use a holistic approach, which means I may use different methods to help you meet your goals including reality therapy, family systems therapy and homework.
(703) 291-0320 View (703) 291-0320
Photo of Jessie Hoffa, Resident in Counseling, LPC
Jessie Hoffa
Resident in Counseling, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not having that "hot summer" you were hoping for? Summer is ripe for couples counseling! ART certified; You DON'T have to talk about it with Accelerated Resolution Therapy. Get relief in 1-5 sessions. I offer talk therapy to individuals and couples that are ready to explore how their past is informing the present so they can change their future. Specialities include working with marital strife, complex trauma, anxiety and new life paths. We will explore where mindful self-compassion is lacking and why. Good mental health creates awareness of where our bodies store memories and how they physically express mental or spiritual pain.
Not having that "hot summer" you were hoping for? Summer is ripe for couples counseling! ART certified; You DON'T have to talk about it with Accelerated Resolution Therapy. Get relief in 1-5 sessions. I offer talk therapy to individuals and couples that are ready to explore how their past is informing the present so they can change their future. Specialities include working with marital strife, complex trauma, anxiety and new life paths. We will explore where mindful self-compassion is lacking and why. Good mental health creates awareness of where our bodies store memories and how they physically express mental or spiritual pain.
(540) 987-0303 View (540) 987-0303
Photo of Melanie Coriolan, Counselor, LMHC
Melanie Coriolan
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Melanie and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with additional training in Marriage and Family Therapy. My heart is in helping people find feeling, explore growth, and increase their daily experiences of joy and gratitude. It is important that we do this while also strengthening relationships and fostering a sense of community. I find great joy in helping others experience freedom from anxiety, depression, relational conflict, and other common stressors. If you've been having feelings of fear, being overwhelmed, misunderstood, or struggling to get through the day, I can help. You don't have to do it alone.
Hello! My name is Melanie and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with additional training in Marriage and Family Therapy. My heart is in helping people find feeling, explore growth, and increase their daily experiences of joy and gratitude. It is important that we do this while also strengthening relationships and fostering a sense of community. I find great joy in helping others experience freedom from anxiety, depression, relational conflict, and other common stressors. If you've been having feelings of fear, being overwhelmed, misunderstood, or struggling to get through the day, I can help. You don't have to do it alone.
(813) 328-5324 View (813) 328-5324
Photo of Adam D Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT-S
Adam D Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT-S
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I’m in a group practice called Mountaintop Therapy Group. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with a wide range of symptoms including​ ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental difficulties, autism spectrum challenges, depression, anxiety, or substance use issues. Many of my clients have been struggling with adjusting to a life change, such as grief/loss, or a change in family dynamics. If I’m unable to work with you I hope to connect you with one of the other highly skilled therapists at our group!
I’m in a group practice called Mountaintop Therapy Group. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with a wide range of symptoms including​ ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental difficulties, autism spectrum challenges, depression, anxiety, or substance use issues. Many of my clients have been struggling with adjusting to a life change, such as grief/loss, or a change in family dynamics. If I’m unable to work with you I hope to connect you with one of the other highly skilled therapists at our group!
(434) 277-2971 View (434) 277-2971
Photo of Anne Oelrich, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Anne Oelrich
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Serves Area
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 Doris Dodson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Doris Dodson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I am Doris Dodson (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to using a strengths-based approach to support clients dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, adoption, grief and loss, and relationship issues. I believe that clients are the experts on themselves, and I have collaborated with children, adolescents, and adults to help them overcome challenges. My diverse experience includes teaching social work students in higher education, leading anger management and batterers intervention groups, and training mental health clinicians to provide therapeutic services for clients impacted by foster care and adopti
I am Doris Dodson (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to using a strengths-based approach to support clients dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, adoption, grief and loss, and relationship issues. I believe that clients are the experts on themselves, and I have collaborated with children, adolescents, and adults to help them overcome challenges. My diverse experience includes teaching social work students in higher education, leading anger management and batterers intervention groups, and training mental health clinicians to provide therapeutic services for clients impacted by foster care and adopti
(434) 577-6786 View (434) 577-6786

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marla Ikalina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marla Ikalina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my B.A in Psychology from Stockton University and Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. I have worked in various settings including outpatient and inpatient treatment facilities, working with individuals who have experienced crisis, anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments. I have experience in solution focused and trauma informed cognitive behavioral therapy. I find joy and satisfaction knowing I am able to help others find solutions in the circumstances they face.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my B.A in Psychology from Stockton University and Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. I have worked in various settings including outpatient and inpatient treatment facilities, working with individuals who have experienced crisis, anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments. I have experience in solution focused and trauma informed cognitive behavioral therapy. I find joy and satisfaction knowing I am able to help others find solutions in the circumstances they face.
(571) 596-7672 View (571) 596-7672
Photo of Shawn Gewirtz, Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Shawn Gewirtz
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
2 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Not accepting new clients
In my therapy practice, I work collaboratively with children, adolescents, adults, and families to identify and counter unhelpful thinking and behavioral patterns and ultimately help them to live happier, more successful lives. Using a scientifically supported approach, the therapy work frequently includes discussions of brain functioning and why we act as we do, learning about and practicing concrete strategies to improve day-to-day functioning, and identifying and changing problematic habits (e.g., with thought patterns, exercise, sleep, screens, social interactions, etc).
In my therapy practice, I work collaboratively with children, adolescents, adults, and families to identify and counter unhelpful thinking and behavioral patterns and ultimately help them to live happier, more successful lives. Using a scientifically supported approach, the therapy work frequently includes discussions of brain functioning and why we act as we do, learning about and practicing concrete strategies to improve day-to-day functioning, and identifying and changing problematic habits (e.g., with thought patterns, exercise, sleep, screens, social interactions, etc).
(434) 363-4532 View (434) 363-4532
Photo of Regan McKenna Harker - Regan McKenna Harker, Albemarle Therapist LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Regan McKenna Harker, Albemarle Therapist LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello there, I’m Regan. If you are feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I can help you overcome these issues and experience change. I am person-centered, goal-oriented, and arrive at each session with an open mind and bright attitude. You will feel heard, understood, engaged and connected. I will help you learn to solve your problems, and develop sustainable skills to make fundamental life changes, with the help of proven therapies.
Hello there, I’m Regan. If you are feeling stuck in a cycle of anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I can help you overcome these issues and experience change. I am person-centered, goal-oriented, and arrive at each session with an open mind and bright attitude. You will feel heard, understood, engaged and connected. I will help you learn to solve your problems, and develop sustainable skills to make fundamental life changes, with the help of proven therapies.
(540) 530-3779 View (540) 530-3779
Photo of Johnette Boone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Johnette Boone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping others achieve and maintain a healthy state of well-being. If you are having trouble coping with the challenges of life, managing your emotions, coping with stress from work, and maintaining healthy relationships reach out to me and we can build a healthy state of well-being together.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping others achieve and maintain a healthy state of well-being. If you are having trouble coping with the challenges of life, managing your emotions, coping with stress from work, and maintaining healthy relationships reach out to me and we can build a healthy state of well-being together.
(804) 361-7715 View (804) 361-7715
Photo of Lisa M Locke-Downer, Psychologist, PhD
Lisa M Locke-Downer
Psychologist, PhD
7 Endorsed
Crozet, VA 22932
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavioral problems, and social or family concerns. I use a cognitive-behavioral treatment approach, with family, school, and psychiatry consultation as important components of the treatment. I believe in using a collaborative problem-solving approach in which we work as a team to develop an intervention plan.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, behavioral problems, and social or family concerns. I use a cognitive-behavioral treatment approach, with family, school, and psychiatry consultation as important components of the treatment. I believe in using a collaborative problem-solving approach in which we work as a team to develop an intervention plan.
(434) 483-5210 View (434) 483-5210
Photo of Brenna Cash, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brenna Cash
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi and Welcome to the bio of Brenna Cash, clinical mental health and family therapist. I look forward to starting this journey with you toward self-care and healing through holistic approaches to meeting your therapeutic goals. While counseling won’t erase the undesirable events of the past, together we can work to better understand and address the challenges of today. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Hi and Welcome to the bio of Brenna Cash, clinical mental health and family therapist. I look forward to starting this journey with you toward self-care and healing through holistic approaches to meeting your therapeutic goals. While counseling won’t erase the undesirable events of the past, together we can work to better understand and address the challenges of today. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(804) 408-4812 View (804) 408-4812
Photo of David L. Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
David L. Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901
My work is focused on all types of addictive behaviors, especially the use and abuse of substances. An Addiction is simply the use of something outside of ourselves to change the way we feel inside. I help individuals cope with their Addiction and Co-Occurring Disorders by using an eclectic array of theories. CBT and EMDR are extremely effective in treating addiction disorders, but I use whatever techniques are required to help individuals overcome their addiction and face the underlying issues that are being medicated by their behaviors. I received a Masters in Community and Addictions Counseling from William & Mary in 2000.
My work is focused on all types of addictive behaviors, especially the use and abuse of substances. An Addiction is simply the use of something outside of ourselves to change the way we feel inside. I help individuals cope with their Addiction and Co-Occurring Disorders by using an eclectic array of theories. CBT and EMDR are extremely effective in treating addiction disorders, but I use whatever techniques are required to help individuals overcome their addiction and face the underlying issues that are being medicated by their behaviors. I received a Masters in Community and Addictions Counseling from William & Mary in 2000.
(434) 443-6326 View (434) 443-6326
Photo of Nell Downey, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nell Downey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Are you feeling lost, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps you are seeking more out of your relationship with yourself or others, yet feel stuck in old patterns, impacted by past trauma and life's challenges? I hear you.​ I feel passionately that we all have an innate ability to heal and transform into a happier and healthier version of ourselves, but we can need help and support in that process. I use an AEDP approach to my work (accelerated experiential dynamic psychotherapy). In AEDP, feeling safe and secure in your relationship with your therapist is paramount and the foundation to my healing work with clients.
Are you feeling lost, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps you are seeking more out of your relationship with yourself or others, yet feel stuck in old patterns, impacted by past trauma and life's challenges? I hear you.​ I feel passionately that we all have an innate ability to heal and transform into a happier and healthier version of ourselves, but we can need help and support in that process. I use an AEDP approach to my work (accelerated experiential dynamic psychotherapy). In AEDP, feeling safe and secure in your relationship with your therapist is paramount and the foundation to my healing work with clients.
(434) 201-7497 View (434) 201-7497
Photo of Ellisse Sawyers, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ellisse Sawyers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I have been licensed as an LPC in the state of Virginia since 2022 and working in the mental health field since 2017. My main areas of expertise include working through traumatic experiences, anxiety and depressive disorders, OCD and personality disorders as well as family systems impacted by personality disorders. I enjoy working with older children, teens, and young adults. My experience has been mainly working with anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, behavioral disorders (ODD, ADHD), eating disorders in teens, personality disorders as well as trauma.
I have been licensed as an LPC in the state of Virginia since 2022 and working in the mental health field since 2017. My main areas of expertise include working through traumatic experiences, anxiety and depressive disorders, OCD and personality disorders as well as family systems impacted by personality disorders. I enjoy working with older children, teens, and young adults. My experience has been mainly working with anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, behavioral disorders (ODD, ADHD), eating disorders in teens, personality disorders as well as trauma.
(571) 520-4378 View (571) 520-4378
Photo of Lora D Baum, Psychologist, PhD
Lora D Baum
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Chronic illness or pain present unique challenges for individuals and families. Using cognitive behavioral therapy, learn to live a better and healthier life. I specialize in helping people with chronic medical conditions improve their physical and emotional functioning. Do you have chronic headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic low back pain, or fibromyalgia? Each of these conditions can be alleviated by using psychological treatments. Having chronic pain is a stress in and of itself. I help you to make changes that can also improve sleep and mood.
Chronic illness or pain present unique challenges for individuals and families. Using cognitive behavioral therapy, learn to live a better and healthier life. I specialize in helping people with chronic medical conditions improve their physical and emotional functioning. Do you have chronic headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic low back pain, or fibromyalgia? Each of these conditions can be alleviated by using psychological treatments. Having chronic pain is a stress in and of itself. I help you to make changes that can also improve sleep and mood.
(434) 336-3277 View (434) 336-3277
Photo of Deirdre Staton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Deirdre Staton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
YES, I am accepting clients. :) Are you passionate about your life? If not, how would you define a life worth living? The purpose of therapy is for you to more deeply discover who you are, what you want, and how to get it. You can absolutely learn the skills needed to better manage problematic thoughts and emotions, improve and deepen relationships, live more fully in the moment, and pursue your goals and dreams. You can discover how to grow your courage, and develop a more loving and compassionate relationship with yourself.
YES, I am accepting clients. :) Are you passionate about your life? If not, how would you define a life worth living? The purpose of therapy is for you to more deeply discover who you are, what you want, and how to get it. You can absolutely learn the skills needed to better manage problematic thoughts and emotions, improve and deepen relationships, live more fully in the moment, and pursue your goals and dreams. You can discover how to grow your courage, and develop a more loving and compassionate relationship with yourself.
(540) 318-7719 View (540) 318-7719

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Keswick, VA

< 10

Therapists in Keswick, VA who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
89% Relationship Issues
89% Coping Skills
78% Depression
78% Family Conflict
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Peer Relationships

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Aetna
83% Anthem

How Therapists in Keswick, VA see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
11% Male
11% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Keswick?

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.