Therapists in Manassas, VA

Photo of Heather Habaqe, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Habaqe
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Noting on my own life I have come to terms with the fact that all individuals are unique in their experiences, how they perceive these experiences, and to their reactions and responses to these experiences. Recognizing worldviews are intricately individualistic, I feel that counseling should be just as unique and aligned to the individual client and their specific needs. I actively seek to meet my clients where they are and through collaboration provide assistance and guidance that aligns to their values, beliefs, and personal functioning with realistic goals that focus on the clients idea of what the best version of themselves is.
Noting on my own life I have come to terms with the fact that all individuals are unique in their experiences, how they perceive these experiences, and to their reactions and responses to these experiences. Recognizing worldviews are intricately individualistic, I feel that counseling should be just as unique and aligned to the individual client and their specific needs. I actively seek to meet my clients where they are and through collaboration provide assistance and guidance that aligns to their values, beliefs, and personal functioning with realistic goals that focus on the clients idea of what the best version of themselves is.
(571) 749-2304 View (571) 749-2304
Photo of Stephanie Walker Crowe, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC, ACS, LCMHC
Stephanie Walker Crowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC, ACS, LCMHC
Online Only
Compassion and empathy combine to allow me to help many incredible people affirm their strengths and overcome obstacles. Developing a genuine rapport with the clients served is also essential to their success. A firm believer that we are all capable of amazing feats, I feel strongly that, at times, we just need help to gain clarity. Along with educational and practical experience, the realization that each client has an individual perspective and distinct set of circumstances enables the facilitation of many concerns ranging from everyday life stressors, to depression, anxiety, and many other mental health and behavioral concerns.
Compassion and empathy combine to allow me to help many incredible people affirm their strengths and overcome obstacles. Developing a genuine rapport with the clients served is also essential to their success. A firm believer that we are all capable of amazing feats, I feel strongly that, at times, we just need help to gain clarity. Along with educational and practical experience, the realization that each client has an individual perspective and distinct set of circumstances enables the facilitation of many concerns ranging from everyday life stressors, to depression, anxiety, and many other mental health and behavioral concerns.
(703) 997-8546 View (703) 997-8546
Photo of Schlese Castilla, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Schlese Castilla
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Everyone needs a supportive space that helps them “tune-in” and listen so they can understand themselves, their life, and their relationships. However, when life is overwhelming and difficult, finding support can be challenging. Plus, a seemingly infinite amount of distractions and stressors in our fast paced world make it hard to slow down, pause, breathe, pay attention, and be human. Therapy can help you to figure out how to listen, so that you can explore your thoughts and feelings to discover not only solutions to your problems-but yourself.
Everyone needs a supportive space that helps them “tune-in” and listen so they can understand themselves, their life, and their relationships. However, when life is overwhelming and difficult, finding support can be challenging. Plus, a seemingly infinite amount of distractions and stressors in our fast paced world make it hard to slow down, pause, breathe, pay attention, and be human. Therapy can help you to figure out how to listen, so that you can explore your thoughts and feelings to discover not only solutions to your problems-but yourself.
(571) 999-6898 View (571) 999-6898
Photo of Heather Doute, Counselor, LPC, CSOTP
Heather Doute
Counselor, LPC, CSOTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to your new beginning! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who supports those who suffer from sexual related issues to include sex therapy and sexual deviancy, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, stress, and relationship dysfunction utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral, Person Centered, and Acceptance Approach. My goal is to join with my clients to discuss current stressors, process emotions, and assist in determining solutions together. Whether you choose to focus on your current issues or issues from your past, together, we can work through those issues and develop appropriate coping skills which will lead to manageable behaviors.
Welcome to your new beginning! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who supports those who suffer from sexual related issues to include sex therapy and sexual deviancy, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, stress, and relationship dysfunction utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral, Person Centered, and Acceptance Approach. My goal is to join with my clients to discuss current stressors, process emotions, and assist in determining solutions together. Whether you choose to focus on your current issues or issues from your past, together, we can work through those issues and develop appropriate coping skills which will lead to manageable behaviors.
(571) 506-6514 View (571) 506-6514
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 Keshia Ross - Columbia Mental Health - Manassas, Counselor, LPC
Columbia Mental Health is a group of local outpatient mental health care clinics dedicated to transforming lives by offering quality, easily accessible mental health care. Columbia Mental Health has been deeply rooted in the Washington DC Metro area for over 30 years supporting communities in Virginia and Maryland with a forward-thinking approach to mental health care. Our diverse care teams reflect the communities we serve and are committed to supporting clients through life’s challenges. We are proud to be a leader in interventional psychiatry services in the region.
Columbia Mental Health is a group of local outpatient mental health care clinics dedicated to transforming lives by offering quality, easily accessible mental health care. Columbia Mental Health has been deeply rooted in the Washington DC Metro area for over 30 years supporting communities in Virginia and Maryland with a forward-thinking approach to mental health care. Our diverse care teams reflect the communities we serve and are committed to supporting clients through life’s challenges. We are proud to be a leader in interventional psychiatry services in the region.
(703) 350-4131 View (703) 350-4131
Photo of Margarita Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margarita Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, registered by the Virginia Board of Counseling. I provide therapy online via HIPAA-compliant encrypted video to clients ages 18 to adult who are appropriate for online services.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, registered by the Virginia Board of Counseling. I provide therapy online via HIPAA-compliant encrypted video to clients ages 18 to adult who are appropriate for online services.
(703) 215-9141 View (703) 215-9141
Photo of James Hurd, Pre-Licensed Professional
James Hurd
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20111
You do not need to have a clear diagnosis, a specific goal, or even the right words to begin therapy. Many people come in unsure of what is wrong, but aware that something feels off. What matters most is a genuine desire to look inward, to express what has been held back, and to explore deeper parts of yourself with honesty and curiosity. That inner spark to understand or heal is often where meaningful change begins.
You do not need to have a clear diagnosis, a specific goal, or even the right words to begin therapy. Many people come in unsure of what is wrong, but aware that something feels off. What matters most is a genuine desire to look inward, to express what has been held back, and to explore deeper parts of yourself with honesty and curiosity. That inner spark to understand or heal is often where meaningful change begins.
(571) 351-2967 View (571) 351-2967
Photo of Linda Thimons - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Manassas, VA 20110
What if finding the right therapist felt easy, supportive, and genuinely uplifting? At Lifebulb, that is our mission. We believe clients deserve clinicians who love what they do and who they do it with. By building a workplace where therapists can thrive, we ensure you receive exceptional care. Whether you join us in person or through telehealth, you work with licensed, highly trained clinicians committed to your growth. We are here to help you reach your therapy goals.
What if finding the right therapist felt easy, supportive, and genuinely uplifting? At Lifebulb, that is our mission. We believe clients deserve clinicians who love what they do and who they do it with. By building a workplace where therapists can thrive, we ensure you receive exceptional care. Whether you join us in person or through telehealth, you work with licensed, highly trained clinicians committed to your growth. We are here to help you reach your therapy goals.
(571) 576-6580 View (571) 576-6580
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 Dorothy Christy Ford - A New Day is Dawning Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, IFS, IFIO
A New Day is Dawning Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, IFS, IFIO
Manassas, VA 20110
I believe in treating the whole person, mind, body and spirit, as well as taking into account the past when working with you toward helping improve your future. I believe that true healing is possible and I am here to help you achieve your goals. Over my 18 year career as a therapist I have worked with a variety of populations, including but not limited to those with Depression, Bipolar and other Affective Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Identity Disorder and other trauma-related disorders, Eating Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse issues, and domestic violence.
I believe in treating the whole person, mind, body and spirit, as well as taking into account the past when working with you toward helping improve your future. I believe that true healing is possible and I am here to help you achieve your goals. Over my 18 year career as a therapist I have worked with a variety of populations, including but not limited to those with Depression, Bipolar and other Affective Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Identity Disorder and other trauma-related disorders, Eating Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse issues, and domestic violence.
(571) 748-5495 View (571) 748-5495
Photo of Amber Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Amber Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
The primary goal of psychotherapy is to help you understand what you want and need to make your life more meaningful, productive and fulfilling. Being true to yourself is an extraordinary, revolutionary act and is the means to living your best life and contributing your greatest gifts to the world. As your therapist, I want to help you realize and utilize your full potential by guiding you through your fears and self-doubt. My theoretical orientation integrates psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral theories to assist you in addressing past and present challenges to improve connections and increase insight as you navigate life.
The primary goal of psychotherapy is to help you understand what you want and need to make your life more meaningful, productive and fulfilling. Being true to yourself is an extraordinary, revolutionary act and is the means to living your best life and contributing your greatest gifts to the world. As your therapist, I want to help you realize and utilize your full potential by guiding you through your fears and self-doubt. My theoretical orientation integrates psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral theories to assist you in addressing past and present challenges to improve connections and increase insight as you navigate life.
(571) 520-9037 View (571) 520-9037
Photo of Dwight P Vick, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dwight P Vick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
The healthiest sense of self is manifested in one’s ability to serve others first.
The healthiest sense of self is manifested in one’s ability to serve others first.
(571) 497-5415 View (571) 497-5415
Photo of Katy McHugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Katy McHugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Manassas, VA 20110
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker with twenty years of experience working with children, teens and adults. I treat clients with issues including depression and mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and substance abuse. I work with individuals and families and utilize a variety of techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with twenty years of experience working with children, teens and adults. I treat clients with issues including depression and mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and substance abuse. I work with individuals and families and utilize a variety of techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
(571) 321-7946 View (571) 321-7946
Photo of Elizabeth M Wilkins-McKee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Elizabeth M Wilkins-McKee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20111
I believe in treating the whole person, so let me introduce myself. I’ve been practicing as a licensed clinical social worker for 25 years (in Michigan, Vermont, and Virginia). I’m a second-generation mental health provider (and third-generation health care provider). I’m a singer, gardener, swimmer, reader, and traveler. I live in Manassas, Virginia with my husband and two awesome kids. And I love what I do. I’ve had the privilege of serving more than a thousand clients, people who have come to me with the desire to live a healthier and less painful life. I’ve had the joy of nurturing their growth and witnessing their healing.
I believe in treating the whole person, so let me introduce myself. I’ve been practicing as a licensed clinical social worker for 25 years (in Michigan, Vermont, and Virginia). I’m a second-generation mental health provider (and third-generation health care provider). I’m a singer, gardener, swimmer, reader, and traveler. I live in Manassas, Virginia with my husband and two awesome kids. And I love what I do. I’ve had the privilege of serving more than a thousand clients, people who have come to me with the desire to live a healthier and less painful life. I’ve had the joy of nurturing their growth and witnessing their healing.
(571) 771-2720 View (571) 771-2720
Photo of Alexa Haines, Resident in Counseling, MA, MBA, NCC, QMHP
Alexa Haines
Resident in Counseling, MA, MBA, NCC, QMHP
Manassas, VA 20110
I specialize in working with individuals who feel misunderstood or isolated, often due to neurodiversity (autism, ADHD) or other marginalized experiences. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship issues, and long for a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their inner world. They want to feel truly heard, discover their strengths, and develop practical strategies for daily life. Ultimately, they seek a genuine therapeutic relationship where vulnerability is welcomed, trust is built, and meaningful change is possible.
I specialize in working with individuals who feel misunderstood or isolated, often due to neurodiversity (autism, ADHD) or other marginalized experiences. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship issues, and long for a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their inner world. They want to feel truly heard, discover their strengths, and develop practical strategies for daily life. Ultimately, they seek a genuine therapeutic relationship where vulnerability is welcomed, trust is built, and meaningful change is possible.
(571) 570-9647 x721 View (571) 570-9647 x721
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 Destini Banks - Vision Hope and Healing LLC, Qualified Mental Health Professional, MA
Vision Hope and Healing LLC
Qualified Mental Health Professional, MA
Manassas, VA 20111
Let me begin by saying that I appreciate your efforts to prioritize your mental health. I understand that finding a relatable and competent therapist can be a challenging and overwhelming task . I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisee – (LCSW-S) I received a Master of Social Work (MSW) – from Walden University and Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Norfolk State. I enjoy working with women and men looking to heal from trauma and teens. I believe that Life, like therapy is about pushing yourself outside your comfort zone and embracing growth and learning those things that develop into a new you. Virtual Sessions Only.
Let me begin by saying that I appreciate your efforts to prioritize your mental health. I understand that finding a relatable and competent therapist can be a challenging and overwhelming task . I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisee – (LCSW-S) I received a Master of Social Work (MSW) – from Walden University and Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Norfolk State. I enjoy working with women and men looking to heal from trauma and teens. I believe that Life, like therapy is about pushing yourself outside your comfort zone and embracing growth and learning those things that develop into a new you. Virtual Sessions Only.
(571) 351-1752 View (571) 351-1752
Photo of Heather Long, Pre-Licensed Professional
Heather Long
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you find yourself in loops of overthinking, obsessing over things outside your control? Do you often become overwhelmed by anxiety about the future or regret from the past; making it difficult to engage in the life that's right in front of you? If so, you are not alone. I work with those struggling with issues such as anxiety, OCD, rumination, relationship issues, stress, and self-esteem. Together, we can explore effective strategies and find solutions to the specific issues you are experiencing. You deserve to feel fulfilled and to focus on what truly matters to you, and I believe therapy is a wonderful catalyst for this!
Do you find yourself in loops of overthinking, obsessing over things outside your control? Do you often become overwhelmed by anxiety about the future or regret from the past; making it difficult to engage in the life that's right in front of you? If so, you are not alone. I work with those struggling with issues such as anxiety, OCD, rumination, relationship issues, stress, and self-esteem. Together, we can explore effective strategies and find solutions to the specific issues you are experiencing. You deserve to feel fulfilled and to focus on what truly matters to you, and I believe therapy is a wonderful catalyst for this!
(540) 679-7419 View (540) 679-7419
Photo of Philip Cerrato, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MDiv
Philip Cerrato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MDiv
Manassas, VA 20110
Seek counseling is a sign of inner strength and a desire to be a better person. No matter what the reason you will feel better once you meet with me, a non-judgmental therapist. As a Clinical Social Worker and therapist I am part of a profession that is well known for helping others cope with the passages of life and meeting you where you are. All races, genders and orientations are welcome here. I will walk with you to help you overcome your challenges and assist your growth into loving kindness for yourself and others. Feel free to call me with any questions at 703.508.4578
Seek counseling is a sign of inner strength and a desire to be a better person. No matter what the reason you will feel better once you meet with me, a non-judgmental therapist. As a Clinical Social Worker and therapist I am part of a profession that is well known for helping others cope with the passages of life and meeting you where you are. All races, genders and orientations are welcome here. I will walk with you to help you overcome your challenges and assist your growth into loving kindness for yourself and others. Feel free to call me with any questions at 703.508.4578
(703) 349-7034 View (703) 349-7034

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
83% Depression
69% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
67% Relationship Issues
66% Stress
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Anthem
81% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% Aetna

How Therapists in Manassas, VA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% 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.