Therapists in Newport News, VA

Photo of Dr. Nicola Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dr. Nicola Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
Whether you are struggling with work, personal relationships, or are looking for support to navigate a challenging situation, you will be encouraged every step of the way. Each session will cater to your needs to ensure you make progress and experience the change you are striving for.
Whether you are struggling with work, personal relationships, or are looking for support to navigate a challenging situation, you will be encouraged every step of the way. Each session will cater to your needs to ensure you make progress and experience the change you are striving for.
(757) 266-2791 View (757) 266-2791
Photo of Ameka Michelle Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT™
Ameka Michelle Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT™
2 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
My vision is to help you overcome the daily obstacles and challenges you are facing. We all go through storms in life and sometimes we need someone to help us get beyond those storms. The first step can be the most difficult, allow me to help you. I would like to empower you to reach your personal goals . My goal in treatment is to help you tap into your own strengths to reach those goals! I work with children, teens, and adults. If you are ready to work on your goals and to explore your life experiences, contact me so that we may get started!
My vision is to help you overcome the daily obstacles and challenges you are facing. We all go through storms in life and sometimes we need someone to help us get beyond those storms. The first step can be the most difficult, allow me to help you. I would like to empower you to reach your personal goals . My goal in treatment is to help you tap into your own strengths to reach those goals! I work with children, teens, and adults. If you are ready to work on your goals and to explore your life experiences, contact me so that we may get started!
(757) 785-4627 View (757) 785-4627
Photo of Melinda Staton, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Melinda Staton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Newport News, VA 23606
I’m Melinda Staton, a Licensed Professional Counselor with six years of experience supporting individuals of all ages through challenges like mental stress, behavioral issues, anger, depression, life transitions, anxiety, grief, and family conflict. I believe deeply in each person’s power to heal, transform, and find strength and hope within themselves. My approach is rooted in providing quality, person-centered, and evidence-based counseling to help you achieve your therapeutic goals.
I’m Melinda Staton, a Licensed Professional Counselor with six years of experience supporting individuals of all ages through challenges like mental stress, behavioral issues, anger, depression, life transitions, anxiety, grief, and family conflict. I believe deeply in each person’s power to heal, transform, and find strength and hope within themselves. My approach is rooted in providing quality, person-centered, and evidence-based counseling to help you achieve your therapeutic goals.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Emma Dowman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emma Dowman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Online Only
I, Emma Dowman, am a Resident in Counseling who has served clients at child advocacy centers, public schools, a university counseling center, and a psychiatric hospital. I have experience working with individuals facing depression, anxiety, foster/adoption issues, trauma, and religious/spiritual issues. I enjoy working with clients of all ages: children, adolescents, and adults.
I, Emma Dowman, am a Resident in Counseling who has served clients at child advocacy centers, public schools, a university counseling center, and a psychiatric hospital. I have experience working with individuals facing depression, anxiety, foster/adoption issues, trauma, and religious/spiritual issues. I enjoy working with clients of all ages: children, adolescents, and adults.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Dashonte Temoney, Resident in Counseling, MA, LRC
Dashonte Temoney
Resident in Counseling, MA, LRC
Newport News, VA 23606
I have a simple approach to therapy: “No one has it all figured out and we all are just winging it”. What that means to me is that, without effective strategies, we are just doing the best we can every day. It is about taking the small moments and recognizing that those small moments build into bigger ones. It is the lens that we view the problem that must be transformed, so we can see ourselves as capable to be the definer of our own life. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered approaches to create individualized plans to move your forward in your therapy goals.
I have a simple approach to therapy: “No one has it all figured out and we all are just winging it”. What that means to me is that, without effective strategies, we are just doing the best we can every day. It is about taking the small moments and recognizing that those small moments build into bigger ones. It is the lens that we view the problem that must be transformed, so we can see ourselves as capable to be the definer of our own life. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered approaches to create individualized plans to move your forward in your therapy goals.
(757) 866-3639 View (757) 866-3639
Photo of Sadie F Sheafe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ABSDip, BCD
Sadie F Sheafe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ABSDip, BCD
Newport News, VA 23608
I am Licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Diplomate, Board of Clinical Sexology. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. Their specialties include: Marriage/Couple/divorce, Work Related Stress, Depression, Addictions, Gay/Lesbian/Gender Issues, Sex counseling & therapy, Anger Management, PTSD, Juveniles & Adolescent, Physical -Emotional-Verbal Abuse, Grief, Attention functioning & learning disorders
I am Licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Diplomate, Board of Clinical Sexology. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. Their specialties include: Marriage/Couple/divorce, Work Related Stress, Depression, Addictions, Gay/Lesbian/Gender Issues, Sex counseling & therapy, Anger Management, PTSD, Juveniles & Adolescent, Physical -Emotional-Verbal Abuse, Grief, Attention functioning & learning disorders
(888) 657-2343 View (888) 657-2343
Photo of Jennifer Nicholson, Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Jennifer Nicholson
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
4 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
I am a couples and individual therapist with over 20 years of experience working with women, men, children, and families. I am Gottman-trained in couples therapy and have worked with couples facing communication breakdown, conflict, and infidelity. I also support clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, substance use, and mood disorders. My approach is relational, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive, helping clients move toward strength, clarity, and lasting change.
I am a couples and individual therapist with over 20 years of experience working with women, men, children, and families. I am Gottman-trained in couples therapy and have worked with couples facing communication breakdown, conflict, and infidelity. I also support clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, substance use, and mood disorders. My approach is relational, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive, helping clients move toward strength, clarity, and lasting change.
(757) 601-4033 View (757) 601-4033
Photo of Pennie Hurta, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Pennie Hurta
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Newport News, VA 23606
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. I am invested in assisting children, adolescents, adults, and couples to address a wide range of presenting issues and lead lives filled with hope and happiness. My specialties include trauma, borderline personality disorder (BPD), major life transitions, anxiety, behavioral issues in children and adolescents, depression, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. I am invested in assisting children, adolescents, adults, and couples to address a wide range of presenting issues and lead lives filled with hope and happiness. My specialties include trauma, borderline personality disorder (BPD), major life transitions, anxiety, behavioral issues in children and adolescents, depression, and relationship issues.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Lauren Maninga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren Maninga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults navigate depression, anxiety, difficult life transitions, self-esteem issues, and strengthen communication. I also focus on building distress tolerance and emotional regulation—key skills for managing overwhelming feelings and improving coping strategies. I am also an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and strive to provide an inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. My goal as your therapist is to help you develop practical tools to feel more in control, resilient, and empowered.
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults navigate depression, anxiety, difficult life transitions, self-esteem issues, and strengthen communication. I also focus on building distress tolerance and emotional regulation—key skills for managing overwhelming feelings and improving coping strategies. I am also an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and strive to provide an inclusive space for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. My goal as your therapist is to help you develop practical tools to feel more in control, resilient, and empowered.
(757) 540-2477 x789 View (757) 540-2477 x789
Photo of Petra Gross, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Petra Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
5 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and family of origin issues. My particular passion lies in supporting minorities and mothers through all stages of motherhood, helping them find balance, strength, and peace in their unique journeys. I offer a therapeutic space built on empathy, compassion, and acceptance. I believe in providing an environment where my clients feel heard, valued, and understood! At the same time, I’m committed to helping you stay accountable, ask the hard questions, and work towards real, meaningful change!
I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and family of origin issues. My particular passion lies in supporting minorities and mothers through all stages of motherhood, helping them find balance, strength, and peace in their unique journeys. I offer a therapeutic space built on empathy, compassion, and acceptance. I believe in providing an environment where my clients feel heard, valued, and understood! At the same time, I’m committed to helping you stay accountable, ask the hard questions, and work towards real, meaningful change!
(757) 780-1459 View (757) 780-1459
Photo of Katherine Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Katherine Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Newport News, VA 23606
Katherine Evans, LCSW, helps individuals and families navigate life’s most challenging moments with compassion, insight, and evidence-based care. Serving patients across Virginia, Katherine provides therapy that supports teens, adults, and seniors as they work through anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Whether facing a new diagnosis, a life transition, or the lasting effects of trauma, clients can expect a safe, judgment-free space to explore their experiences and build resilience.
Katherine Evans, LCSW, helps individuals and families navigate life’s most challenging moments with compassion, insight, and evidence-based care. Serving patients across Virginia, Katherine provides therapy that supports teens, adults, and seniors as they work through anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Whether facing a new diagnosis, a life transition, or the lasting effects of trauma, clients can expect a safe, judgment-free space to explore their experiences and build resilience.
(757) 863-3362 View (757) 863-3362
Photo of Chrissy Nieves - The Harbor Behavioral Health Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC, MA
The Harbor Behavioral Health Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC, MA
Newport News, VA 23606
Life is tough. No one should have to experience it alone. I believe it's an honor to help clients work through their life situations. Substance use, Depression, anxiety, trauma, feelings of hopelessness, adoption, foster care, and adjustment issues are just some of the issues that I pride myself on helping clients navigate. Healing is not linear and I believe in providing a therapeutic environment that provides a supportive space for whatever your healing and wellness looks like.
Life is tough. No one should have to experience it alone. I believe it's an honor to help clients work through their life situations. Substance use, Depression, anxiety, trauma, feelings of hopelessness, adoption, foster care, and adjustment issues are just some of the issues that I pride myself on helping clients navigate. Healing is not linear and I believe in providing a therapeutic environment that provides a supportive space for whatever your healing and wellness looks like.
(757) 906-4570 View (757) 906-4570
Photo of Frances McBride, Licensed Professional Counselor, DHA, LPC, LSATP
Frances McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, DHA, LPC, LSATP
2 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
Please Note: Not taking clients at this time. Feel free to call the office to be added to the waitlist for psychotherapy or NeurOptimal(R) neurofeedback. “We May Encounter Many Defeats But We Must Not Be Defeated.” –Maya Angelou– Gain the tools to create your best life today. I am a licensed mental health professional and registered yoga teacher. I focus on workplace behavioral health support, trauma, and substance abuse. I have many years of experience helping adults, families, and adolescents with complex issues. I believe everyone has the ability to live a happy and healthy life if given the tools to overcome everyday stressors.
Please Note: Not taking clients at this time. Feel free to call the office to be added to the waitlist for psychotherapy or NeurOptimal(R) neurofeedback. “We May Encounter Many Defeats But We Must Not Be Defeated.” –Maya Angelou– Gain the tools to create your best life today. I am a licensed mental health professional and registered yoga teacher. I focus on workplace behavioral health support, trauma, and substance abuse. I have many years of experience helping adults, families, and adolescents with complex issues. I believe everyone has the ability to live a happy and healthy life if given the tools to overcome everyday stressors.
(757) 856-6096 View (757) 856-6096
Photo of Sarah Merten, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Sarah Merten
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
I have a passion for helping individuals gain skills to live their best life. I have experience helping children and families overcome various obstacles and learn how to thrive in today's world. Clinical issues I have experience working with include disruptive behaviors, defiance, parenting difficulties, family concerns, anxiety, relationship concerns, school problems, eating and feeding concerns (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), OCD, ADHD, adjustment concerns, military deployments, and social difficulties.
I have a passion for helping individuals gain skills to live their best life. I have experience helping children and families overcome various obstacles and learn how to thrive in today's world. Clinical issues I have experience working with include disruptive behaviors, defiance, parenting difficulties, family concerns, anxiety, relationship concerns, school problems, eating and feeding concerns (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), OCD, ADHD, adjustment concerns, military deployments, and social difficulties.
(757) 695-9060 View (757) 695-9060
Photo of Will Swink, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Will Swink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hampden-Sydney College and a Master of Social Work degree from Salem State University. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) since 2013 and clinical interests include couples/family conflict, social and cultural stressors, anxiety, depression, trauma, functional development, social constructionism, and systems theory. I use an integrated, person-centered approach that draws upon CBT, Rogerian Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hampden-Sydney College and a Master of Social Work degree from Salem State University. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) since 2013 and clinical interests include couples/family conflict, social and cultural stressors, anxiety, depression, trauma, functional development, social constructionism, and systems theory. I use an integrated, person-centered approach that draws upon CBT, Rogerian Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
(757) 551-9223 View (757) 551-9223
Photo of Tiffany Erin Winn - Mindful Journey Therapeutic Services, Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, RMFT
Mindful Journey Therapeutic Services
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, RMFT
1 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
As a therapist, I am deeply passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of life and relationships. I understand that the journey to healing often involves confronting painful past experiences and working through difficult emotions. My ideal clients are those who feel disconnected—whether from themselves, their partners, or their sense of purpose—and are seeking a path to wholeness and connection. They come with a mix of fear, uncertainty, and hope for change. They want to move past their trauma, rebuild trust, and cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships.
As a therapist, I am deeply passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of life and relationships. I understand that the journey to healing often involves confronting painful past experiences and working through difficult emotions. My ideal clients are those who feel disconnected—whether from themselves, their partners, or their sense of purpose—and are seeking a path to wholeness and connection. They come with a mix of fear, uncertainty, and hope for change. They want to move past their trauma, rebuild trust, and cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships.
(757) 290-1360 View (757) 290-1360
Photo of Hyon J. Bachman - BraveWithin Counseling Anxiety Depression Trauma, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
BraveWithin Counseling Anxiety Depression Trauma
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been discouraged by your dire trying to stop something that stresses you out through the bombardment of non-stop racing thoughts, flashbacks, or even the act of overthinking situations? Consistently finding yourself trying to get out of a pool of depressive thoughts, anxiety, or anger that are chronically affecting you and your family to the point of feeling lost and hopeless. In spite of having the flood of helpful and educational information “out there”, here we are, still STUCK in pain and suffering. The scars of unbearable emotional pain portray themselves through our emotional, physical, and spiritual health.
Have you been discouraged by your dire trying to stop something that stresses you out through the bombardment of non-stop racing thoughts, flashbacks, or even the act of overthinking situations? Consistently finding yourself trying to get out of a pool of depressive thoughts, anxiety, or anger that are chronically affecting you and your family to the point of feeling lost and hopeless. In spite of having the flood of helpful and educational information “out there”, here we are, still STUCK in pain and suffering. The scars of unbearable emotional pain portray themselves through our emotional, physical, and spiritual health.
(844) 502-7283 View (844) 502-7283
Photo of Keith A Tucker - Transparent Minds LLC , Counselor, MA, ART
Transparent Minds LLC
Counselor, MA, ART
Online Only
Hello there, I have over 19 years of experience in public service and mental health. Are you tired of your relationships failing? If so my service is for you, unfortunately my service is a non-medical service which is better because instead of placing a band aide on the problem like most insurance providers do, I get to the root of the problem so you can start having healthy relationships. Free 15 minute consultation. Session are $125 and couples counseling is $180. The consultation fee is taken off your first session as well. For the month of December all sessions are 50% off.
Hello there, I have over 19 years of experience in public service and mental health. Are you tired of your relationships failing? If so my service is for you, unfortunately my service is a non-medical service which is better because instead of placing a band aide on the problem like most insurance providers do, I get to the root of the problem so you can start having healthy relationships. Free 15 minute consultation. Session are $125 and couples counseling is $180. The consultation fee is taken off your first session as well. For the month of December all sessions are 50% off.
(757) 654-1897 View (757) 654-1897
Photo of Lance Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lance Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Newport News, VA 23606
I created Associated Counselors of Tidewater 20 years ago with the sole intent to help people in emotional crisis. Couples that are having difficulties in their relationship with communicating and/or connecting on an emotionally intimate level creates a myriad of stressors in life. Learning new, effective communication tools, understanding how to reconnect consistently long-term, and establishing genuine empathy and a deep appreciate and emotional connection for a couple are key components to a loving relationship. In addition, I also work with many clients individually with issues with stress, anxiety, and depression.
I created Associated Counselors of Tidewater 20 years ago with the sole intent to help people in emotional crisis. Couples that are having difficulties in their relationship with communicating and/or connecting on an emotionally intimate level creates a myriad of stressors in life. Learning new, effective communication tools, understanding how to reconnect consistently long-term, and establishing genuine empathy and a deep appreciate and emotional connection for a couple are key components to a loving relationship. In addition, I also work with many clients individually with issues with stress, anxiety, and depression.
(757) 534-7976 View (757) 534-7976
Photo of Jarvis Lee - Robert T Lee Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Robert T Lee Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Newport News, VA 23606
Throughout life we can see the effectiveness of organizations, groups, teams, and boards members. We do a disservice to ourselves when we try to live our lives without having the appropriate people in the right places. The Robert T Lee Foundation has the right people to add to your team of wellness professionals. Our clinicians are thoroughly experienced with treating depression, anxiety, trauma related issues, mood disorders, personality disorder and a host of other debilitating mental ailments. Let's work together to improve your mental wellness.
Throughout life we can see the effectiveness of organizations, groups, teams, and boards members. We do a disservice to ourselves when we try to live our lives without having the appropriate people in the right places. The Robert T Lee Foundation has the right people to add to your team of wellness professionals. Our clinicians are thoroughly experienced with treating depression, anxiety, trauma related issues, mood disorders, personality disorder and a host of other debilitating mental ailments. Let's work together to improve your mental wellness.
(757) 801-2561 View (757) 801-2561

See more therapy options for Newport News

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Newport News, VA

400+

Average cost per session

$127

Therapists in Newport News, VA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
66% Coping Skills
63% Relationship Issues
63% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
82% Anthem
77% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Newport News, VA see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Newport News?

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.