Therapists in Manassas, VA

Photo of Jane Slomski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Jane Slomski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a veterinarian, you carry so much—caring for animals while holding the weight of life-and-death decisions. The pressure to be perfect, the second-guessing after tough decisions, the sleepless nights replaying cases in your head. Advocating for animals who can't advocate for themselves and the constant need to steady clients through their emotions can quietly build into anxiety, compassion fatigue, and burnout. You said the right things to the family in the room. You held it together through the euthanasia conversation, and through the walk-in emergency. And then you sat in your car for a few minutes before you could drive home.
As a veterinarian, you carry so much—caring for animals while holding the weight of life-and-death decisions. The pressure to be perfect, the second-guessing after tough decisions, the sleepless nights replaying cases in your head. Advocating for animals who can't advocate for themselves and the constant need to steady clients through their emotions can quietly build into anxiety, compassion fatigue, and burnout. You said the right things to the family in the room. You held it together through the euthanasia conversation, and through the walk-in emergency. And then you sat in your car for a few minutes before you could drive home.
(571) 506-4236 View (571) 506-4236
Photo of Dawn Atkinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Welcome to my practice Do you ever find yourself feeling over-whelmed with multiple stressors or difficult transitions in your life? or feeling like your time and energy are spent primarily caring for others and not finding time for self-care, self-goals or feeling unmotivated? Or having little energy or feeling weighed down with anxious thoughts or finding yourself experiencing loneliness, life transitions, difficult decisions or feeling that making friends is difficult? then make an appointment to begin to explore strategies and make obtainable goals towards a healthier, and happier you.
Welcome to my practice Do you ever find yourself feeling over-whelmed with multiple stressors or difficult transitions in your life? or feeling like your time and energy are spent primarily caring for others and not finding time for self-care, self-goals or feeling unmotivated? Or having little energy or feeling weighed down with anxious thoughts or finding yourself experiencing loneliness, life transitions, difficult decisions or feeling that making friends is difficult? then make an appointment to begin to explore strategies and make obtainable goals towards a healthier, and happier you.
(757) 720-2710 View (757) 720-2710
Photo of Brittany Summers, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Brittany Summers
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Waitlist for new clients
Brittany provides in person and telehealth counseling for individuals and couples. She works with teens, adults, and couples on issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-confidence, communication, ADHD, and Autism. Her therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Narrative Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Art Therapy, and Mindfulness. She believes that it is important for each client to feel safe and respected, while also being able to provide each client with a space where they can share their story.
Brittany provides in person and telehealth counseling for individuals and couples. She works with teens, adults, and couples on issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-confidence, communication, ADHD, and Autism. Her therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Narrative Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Art Therapy, and Mindfulness. She believes that it is important for each client to feel safe and respected, while also being able to provide each client with a space where they can share their story.
(571) 570-3566 x727 View (571) 570-3566 x727
Photo of Danielle Richardson, Resident in Counseling, M.Ed.
Danielle Richardson
Resident in Counseling, M.Ed.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals and couples to address a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, confidence, trauma, communication issues, and infidelity. I am passionate about working with people from diverse backgrounds and providing a safe place for clients to address uncomfortable feelings, understand themselves better, and create the lives they want to have.
I work with individuals and couples to address a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, confidence, trauma, communication issues, and infidelity. I am passionate about working with people from diverse backgrounds and providing a safe place for clients to address uncomfortable feelings, understand themselves better, and create the lives they want to have.
(571) 496-8122 x724 View (571) 496-8122 x724
Photo of Shane Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shane Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Shane Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor whose mission in life is to cultivate one's self-efficacy while enhancing self-esteem and promoting self-empowerment! She has been providing supervision for over 5 years. Shane is an empathetic Clinical Supervisor and Therapist with a record of successful Mental Health Counseling experiences working with children, adolescents as well as adults, addressing Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Low self-esteem, Poor Communication Skills, Interpersonal relationships, and Social Skills.
Shane Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor whose mission in life is to cultivate one's self-efficacy while enhancing self-esteem and promoting self-empowerment! She has been providing supervision for over 5 years. Shane is an empathetic Clinical Supervisor and Therapist with a record of successful Mental Health Counseling experiences working with children, adolescents as well as adults, addressing Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Low self-esteem, Poor Communication Skills, Interpersonal relationships, and Social Skills.
(804) 626-5913 View (804) 626-5913
Photo of Shojuana Ayers, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shojuana Ayers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Seeking therapy is the first step to restoring your life. Hello, my name is Shojuana Ayers. I have over 13 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, families and couples with a wide range of concerns. My job as a therapist is to help guide individuals through a healing experience from there current situation through self-awareness, the use of positive coping strategies, and empowerment. My role is to help empower individuals and guide them to realize there inner strength.
Seeking therapy is the first step to restoring your life. Hello, my name is Shojuana Ayers. I have over 13 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, families and couples with a wide range of concerns. My job as a therapist is to help guide individuals through a healing experience from there current situation through self-awareness, the use of positive coping strategies, and empowerment. My role is to help empower individuals and guide them to realize there inner strength.
(757) 586-4930 View (757) 586-4930
Photo of Teveira Hillyer, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teveira Hillyer
Licensed Professional Counselor
Manassas, VA 20110
Hello, I'm TeVeira. Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life? Feeling burned out? Have you gone through a recent change such as a breakup or divorce, career switch, social challenges, parenting adjustments, or substance use issues? Are you dealing with the overwhelming stress of the day-to-day hustle and bustle that no one talks about? If so, let me be a part of your journey. Together, we can explore various techniques to assist you in finding the value in your existence. Sometimes when we feel overwhelmed in life, we believe we have to go through the trenches. It doesn’t have to be that way. Allow me to help you learn how to ma
Hello, I'm TeVeira. Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life? Feeling burned out? Have you gone through a recent change such as a breakup or divorce, career switch, social challenges, parenting adjustments, or substance use issues? Are you dealing with the overwhelming stress of the day-to-day hustle and bustle that no one talks about? If so, let me be a part of your journey. Together, we can explore various techniques to assist you in finding the value in your existence. Sometimes when we feel overwhelmed in life, we believe we have to go through the trenches. It doesn’t have to be that way. Allow me to help you learn how to ma
(571) 582-3804 View (571) 582-3804
Photo of Russian-Speaking Tck Brenda Eribo, Pre-Licensed Professional
Russian-Speaking Tck Brenda Eribo
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Would it help to lean on someone as you figure out why you feel overwhelmed, lonely, scattered, sad, numb, scared, or stuck in conflict? You could work through to the side where connection, calm, and self-worth reside. I truly believe we all have what it takes to foster wellbeing if we rely on our strengths and supports. Together, we can work on discovering how. I create an accepting space where we cultivate mindful self-compassion, curiosity, empathy, insights, and resilience. As I personalize treatment, the culturally sensitive and attachment-informed techniques we practice get tailored to your situation, values, and capabilities.
Would it help to lean on someone as you figure out why you feel overwhelmed, lonely, scattered, sad, numb, scared, or stuck in conflict? You could work through to the side where connection, calm, and self-worth reside. I truly believe we all have what it takes to foster wellbeing if we rely on our strengths and supports. Together, we can work on discovering how. I create an accepting space where we cultivate mindful self-compassion, curiosity, empathy, insights, and resilience. As I personalize treatment, the culturally sensitive and attachment-informed techniques we practice get tailored to your situation, values, and capabilities.
(571) 518-5480 View (571) 518-5480
Photo of Nazia Jawad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Nazia Jawad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Manassas, VA 20110
I work with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, including children, adolescents, young, middle-aged, older adults navigating different stages of life. I use collaborative approach to support clients facing relationship challenges, work-related stress, marriage and divorce, caregiver burnout, and grief. I strive to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel truly heard and empowered to explore challenges and growth at a pace that feels right for them.
I work with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, including children, adolescents, young, middle-aged, older adults navigating different stages of life. I use collaborative approach to support clients facing relationship challenges, work-related stress, marriage and divorce, caregiver burnout, and grief. I strive to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel truly heard and empowered to explore challenges and growth at a pace that feels right for them.
(571) 576-6104 View (571) 576-6104
Photo of Kelly L Cipera - Nova Telemental Health LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S, CST
Nova Telemental Health LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S, CST
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients, immediate openings. Evening availability. Mental wellness is and should be accessible and you deserve highly trained professionals to help you on your journey. NOVA Telemental Health is military spouse owned and veteran operated with experience with military, first responders, medical workers, therapists and their families. Our therapists are trained to help you with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders, life transitions and challenges. We are proudly an LGBTQIA+, Kink, Ethical Non-Monogamy Affirming.
Accepting New Clients, immediate openings. Evening availability. Mental wellness is and should be accessible and you deserve highly trained professionals to help you on your journey. NOVA Telemental Health is military spouse owned and veteran operated with experience with military, first responders, medical workers, therapists and their families. Our therapists are trained to help you with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders, life transitions and challenges. We are proudly an LGBTQIA+, Kink, Ethical Non-Monogamy Affirming.
(571) 200-9854 View (571) 200-9854
Photo of Will Arthur Hilgendorf - Brookeside Family Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brookeside Family Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20111
I mainly want to work with those who have gone through sudden life changes. They can range from traumatic experiences to simply adjusting to a new life event that has cause some distress. I am open to working with a wide range of clients, no matter what you are going through. My space is open to discuss anything and everything, and it can be worked on without judgment.
I mainly want to work with those who have gone through sudden life changes. They can range from traumatic experiences to simply adjusting to a new life event that has cause some distress. I am open to working with a wide range of clients, no matter what you are going through. My space is open to discuss anything and everything, and it can be worked on without judgment.
(571) 556-4056 View (571) 556-4056
Photo of Daniel H Decker, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Daniel H Decker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Manassas, VA 20109
All my therapeutic expertise is centered on the development of the client's goals and objectives. I offer a variety of treatment strategies to accomodate the needs of the individual based on personality, resources and time constraints.
All my therapeutic expertise is centered on the development of the client's goals and objectives. I offer a variety of treatment strategies to accomodate the needs of the individual based on personality, resources and time constraints.
(703) 369-2643 View (703) 369-2643
Photo of Giusuppina Calle - Ellie Mental Health Manassas - Giusuppina Calle, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ellie Mental Health Manassas - Giusuppina Calle
Pre-Licensed Professional
Manassas, VA 20110
Hi, I’m Giuseppina Calle, but many people call me “Miss G.” I’m a telehealth (virtual) mental health therapist at Ellie Mental Health Manassas and Ellie Mental Health Woodbridge. I have more than 13 years of experience working with individuals of all ages facing a wide range of behavioral and mental health challenges. I offer individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and couples counseling, and I tailor my approach to fit each person’s unique needs and goals. I'm currently accepting new clients and our clinic accepts most insurances. To schedule, click the website link...all of my openings will show up there!
Hi, I’m Giuseppina Calle, but many people call me “Miss G.” I’m a telehealth (virtual) mental health therapist at Ellie Mental Health Manassas and Ellie Mental Health Woodbridge. I have more than 13 years of experience working with individuals of all ages facing a wide range of behavioral and mental health challenges. I offer individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and couples counseling, and I tailor my approach to fit each person’s unique needs and goals. I'm currently accepting new clients and our clinic accepts most insurances. To schedule, click the website link...all of my openings will show up there!
(571) 630-3092 View (571) 630-3092
Photo of Marli Criniti, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ADHD-CP
Marli Criniti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ADHD-CP
Manassas, VA 20110
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with children (ages 4-12) and adults (ages 18+). I have extensive experience working with ADHD and hold an ADHD-CCSP certification. I also support those who are struggling with C-PTSD, BPD, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, and parent separation/conflict. My goal is to create a space that feels both supportive and engaging, where clients can feel comfortable being themselves while doing meaningful work. When necessary, I collaborate closely with caregivers, teachers, psychiatrists, and other professionals to support progress across settings. I also offer Clinical Supervision to Residents.
I specialize in working with children (ages 4-12) and adults (ages 18+). I have extensive experience working with ADHD and hold an ADHD-CCSP certification. I also support those who are struggling with C-PTSD, BPD, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, and parent separation/conflict. My goal is to create a space that feels both supportive and engaging, where clients can feel comfortable being themselves while doing meaningful work. When necessary, I collaborate closely with caregivers, teachers, psychiatrists, and other professionals to support progress across settings. I also offer Clinical Supervision to Residents.
(703) 783-3316 View (703) 783-3316
Photo of Verniqueca Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verniqueca Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am a licensed therapist dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based support to individuals navigating life's challenges. With a focus on building trust and empowering clients, I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space for growth, healing, and self-discovery. Whether you're managing anxiety, stress, or life transitions, I tailor therapeutic approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you develop lasting coping strategies and emotional resilience.
I am a licensed therapist dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based support to individuals navigating life's challenges. With a focus on building trust and empowering clients, I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space for growth, healing, and self-discovery. Whether you're managing anxiety, stress, or life transitions, I tailor therapeutic approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you develop lasting coping strategies and emotional resilience.
(571) 582-7432 View (571) 582-7432
Photo of Youn Lee, Resident in Counseling
Youn Lee
Resident in Counseling
Manassas, VA 20110
How have you been feeling lately? Do your days feel overwhelming, leaving you tired and slow to recover, even if you can’t pinpoint why? Have you found yourself losing interest in activities you once loved, experiencing frequent mood shifts, or struggling with motivation? Do you long to rediscover a sense of balance, joy, and contentment in your daily life? From small emotional or relational struggles to deep wounds from the past, it’s easy to let time pass without giving your mind and body the space they need to heal.
How have you been feeling lately? Do your days feel overwhelming, leaving you tired and slow to recover, even if you can’t pinpoint why? Have you found yourself losing interest in activities you once loved, experiencing frequent mood shifts, or struggling with motivation? Do you long to rediscover a sense of balance, joy, and contentment in your daily life? From small emotional or relational struggles to deep wounds from the past, it’s easy to let time pass without giving your mind and body the space they need to heal.
(571) 347-2921 View (571) 347-2921
Photo of Tyler Nicole Grosskopf, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Tyler Nicole Grosskopf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Are you ready to make a positive change in your life? Asking for help takes courage, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Are you ready to make a positive change in your life? Asking for help takes courage, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals.
(571) 200-2164 x713 View (571) 200-2164 x713
Photo of Samantha Vaught, Resident in Counseling, LPC-R, MS
Samantha Vaught
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R, MS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in adult stress/overwelm, ADHD, OCD, Mood Disorders, Substance Abuse, and work with teens. Sometimes when it rains it pours! Do you feel stuck? You may find that stress is impacting your sleep, that you no longer enjoy things that you used to, or you're struggling with relationships with others. Together we can take away the overwhelming stress, build self-confidence and self-worth, understand and get past trauma/loss, and strengthen your relationships.
I specialize in adult stress/overwelm, ADHD, OCD, Mood Disorders, Substance Abuse, and work with teens. Sometimes when it rains it pours! Do you feel stuck? You may find that stress is impacting your sleep, that you no longer enjoy things that you used to, or you're struggling with relationships with others. Together we can take away the overwhelming stress, build self-confidence and self-worth, understand and get past trauma/loss, and strengthen your relationships.
(571) 616-9717 View (571) 616-9717
Photo of Nadine Lampton, Resident in Counseling, MA
Nadine Lampton
Resident in Counseling, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or unmotivated? Do you catch yourself overthinking, experiencing sudden waves of panic, or struggling to manage your emotions? Maybe you’ve spent so long putting others first that it’s hard to imagine things feeling different. You’re not too sensitive, and you’re not broken. You’re responding the way anyone would in a life that’s asked you to be silent, selfless, and strong. Everyone deserves a safe space to be heard and understood. If these feelings resonate with you, know you’re not alone. I would love to hear your story, when you are ready to share it.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or unmotivated? Do you catch yourself overthinking, experiencing sudden waves of panic, or struggling to manage your emotions? Maybe you’ve spent so long putting others first that it’s hard to imagine things feeling different. You’re not too sensitive, and you’re not broken. You’re responding the way anyone would in a life that’s asked you to be silent, selfless, and strong. Everyone deserves a safe space to be heard and understood. If these feelings resonate with you, know you’re not alone. I would love to hear your story, when you are ready to share it.
(571) 548-3499 x303 View (571) 548-3499 x303
Photo of Keleisha Dixon - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Manassas, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Manassas
Licensed Professional Counselor
Manassas, VA 20109
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(571) 202-7545 View (571) 202-7545

See more therapy options for Manassas

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Manassas, VA

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Manassas, VA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
85% Depression
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
66% Relationship Issues
66% Stress
56% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Anthem
84% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Aetna

How Therapists in Manassas, VA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Manassas?

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.