Therapists in Roanoke, VA

Photo of Michelle Retton, LCSW, CCTP I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Retton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in trauma work, and I am an EMDR trained therapist and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I am also a board approved clinical supervisor in Oregon and Virginia. I use a tri-phasic treatment model in my practice. We will work on creating safety and stabilization, processing past trauma and exploring meaning making in your life. I use various evidence-based assessment tools to explore symptoms and measure progress. The focus in therapy sessions is to relieve psychological stress as opposed to changing you.
I specialize in trauma work, and I am an EMDR trained therapist and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I am also a board approved clinical supervisor in Oregon and Virginia. I use a tri-phasic treatment model in my practice. We will work on creating safety and stabilization, processing past trauma and exploring meaning making in your life. I use various evidence-based assessment tools to explore symptoms and measure progress. The focus in therapy sessions is to relieve psychological stress as opposed to changing you.
(540) 889-0559 View (540) 889-0559
Photo of Dr. Mary Ann S. Callen, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Mary Ann S. Callen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24014
Do the holidays feel more like a burden than a joy? You might be feeling down, lonely, anxious, irritable, or perhaps overwhelmed by your holiday to-do list and others’ expectations. If holiday gatherings drain your sense of joy, peace, and calm, it may be worth considering working with a professional psychologist. Solution-focused treatments can help restore balance and control in your life. You give so much of yourself to others during the holidays; now might be the perfect time to give yourself the care and compassion you need. Putting yourself first isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Self-care can benefit both you and those you love.
Do the holidays feel more like a burden than a joy? You might be feeling down, lonely, anxious, irritable, or perhaps overwhelmed by your holiday to-do list and others’ expectations. If holiday gatherings drain your sense of joy, peace, and calm, it may be worth considering working with a professional psychologist. Solution-focused treatments can help restore balance and control in your life. You give so much of yourself to others during the holidays; now might be the perfect time to give yourself the care and compassion you need. Putting yourself first isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Self-care can benefit both you and those you love.
(540) 426-0799 View (540) 426-0799
Photo of Barbara Darby, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Darby
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe counseling is a partnership to help you heal, change, and grow. This partnership is built on mutual trust and respect. I am an Army veteran and a military spouse and have over 14 years of experience working with active-duty service members, veterans and their families around transition, trauma and addiction. I am a certified EMDR therapist and a Level 1 trained Internal Family System Therapist. I bring passion and extensive experience to therapy.
I believe counseling is a partnership to help you heal, change, and grow. This partnership is built on mutual trust and respect. I am an Army veteran and a military spouse and have over 14 years of experience working with active-duty service members, veterans and their families around transition, trauma and addiction. I am a certified EMDR therapist and a Level 1 trained Internal Family System Therapist. I bring passion and extensive experience to therapy.
(804) 392-1456 View (804) 392-1456
Photo of Sharon Sudol - Three Valley Wellness LLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Three Valley Wellness LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
I am a trauma-focused therapist who is ready to do the deeper work to clean out what gets in your way of having an easier life. My philosophy is to find the root cause of the problem and work on that instead of staying on the surface. I am ready to go deep. Are you feeling like something is wrong or holding you back, but you don’t know what it is? Are you aware of your past traumas and are ready to work on them? You might be surprised how much trauma is responsible for how we feel about ourselves and how we live our lives.
I am a trauma-focused therapist who is ready to do the deeper work to clean out what gets in your way of having an easier life. My philosophy is to find the root cause of the problem and work on that instead of staying on the surface. I am ready to go deep. Are you feeling like something is wrong or holding you back, but you don’t know what it is? Are you aware of your past traumas and are ready to work on them? You might be surprised how much trauma is responsible for how we feel about ourselves and how we live our lives.
(540) 202-1436 View (540) 202-1436
Photo of Kendra Chisolm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendra Chisolm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) in the state of Virginia. I have over 30 yrs of clinical experience as a therapist and have utilized my clinical skills in outpatient, inpatient, detoxification, EAP, and Emergency Services settings. Over the years, I have specialized in the following clinical areas: addictive disorders, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, stress management,
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) in the state of Virginia. I have over 30 yrs of clinical experience as a therapist and have utilized my clinical skills in outpatient, inpatient, detoxification, EAP, and Emergency Services settings. Over the years, I have specialized in the following clinical areas: addictive disorders, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, stress management,
(571) 240-4741 View (571) 240-4741
Photo of Latasha Saul, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Latasha Saul
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24019
We all have moments when having someone to listen can make a world of difference. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I've had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages—from children to adults, and families too. My journey includes supporting those dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, as well as children in foster care and trauma. Creating a safe space is crucial to me. My approach is all about meeting you right where you are, supporting you every step of the way.
We all have moments when having someone to listen can make a world of difference. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I've had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages—from children to adults, and families too. My journey includes supporting those dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, as well as children in foster care and trauma. Creating a safe space is crucial to me. My approach is all about meeting you right where you are, supporting you every step of the way.
(540) 507-2433 View (540) 507-2433
Photo of Chad Wills, PsyD, LCP, LPC, Psychologist
Chad Wills
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
Not accepting new clients
I am focused on providing you with the best care possible. I am a doctoral level clinician and I enjoy applying what I have learned with a down to earth common sense style. I firmly believe in the power of hope. I am open to working with all people. I specialize in evaluation and treatment of ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, relationship issues, social issues, family therapy, parenting, grief and loss, as well as other common developmental concerns across the lifespan.
I am focused on providing you with the best care possible. I am a doctoral level clinician and I enjoy applying what I have learned with a down to earth common sense style. I firmly believe in the power of hope. I am open to working with all people. I specialize in evaluation and treatment of ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, relationship issues, social issues, family therapy, parenting, grief and loss, as well as other common developmental concerns across the lifespan.
(540) 251-0675 View (540) 251-0675
Photo of Stacie Kruzinski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacie Kruzinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well.T hat's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well.T hat's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(540) 712-6472 View (540) 712-6472
Photo of Laura Janet Ely - Laura Ely, Ph.D, LCP, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Laura Ely, Ph.D, LCP
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in Obsessive Compulsive Spectrum Disorders (OCD, hair pulling, skin picking, etc.), Tics/Tourette's, Anxiety, Depression, and trauma/PTSD. The core of my approach is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I also treat trauma in adults with Written Exposure Therapy (a brief, structured treatment). I'm glad to speak with you for a free brief consultation on the phone (initial 90 min. session fee is $142 and an hour session is $125). I see ALL ages for tics/Tourette's and BFRBs (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting, etc.). For all other treatment I see clients age 18 and older.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in Obsessive Compulsive Spectrum Disorders (OCD, hair pulling, skin picking, etc.), Tics/Tourette's, Anxiety, Depression, and trauma/PTSD. The core of my approach is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I also treat trauma in adults with Written Exposure Therapy (a brief, structured treatment). I'm glad to speak with you for a free brief consultation on the phone (initial 90 min. session fee is $142 and an hour session is $125). I see ALL ages for tics/Tourette's and BFRBs (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting, etc.). For all other treatment I see clients age 18 and older.
(540) 655-2751 View (540) 655-2751
Photo of Josh Shorter, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josh Shorter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
My passion is driven through the use of self, and fostering an environment that can lead to self-actualization. We often ask ourselves, how can we become better and feel like we have self-worth? Do you find yourself often thinking, how can I take the next step to better my overall emotional health and live a life of purpose and fulfillment? Therapy can lead to a better understanding of our own mental health and reveal underlining causes that are often caused by our own self-disrupting behaviors. I believe that each and every person has the toolbelt they need to overcome their daily struggles, but we often just need some assistance.
My passion is driven through the use of self, and fostering an environment that can lead to self-actualization. We often ask ourselves, how can we become better and feel like we have self-worth? Do you find yourself often thinking, how can I take the next step to better my overall emotional health and live a life of purpose and fulfillment? Therapy can lead to a better understanding of our own mental health and reveal underlining causes that are often caused by our own self-disrupting behaviors. I believe that each and every person has the toolbelt they need to overcome their daily struggles, but we often just need some assistance.
(540) 501-7887 View (540) 501-7887
Photo of Terra Jones-Steele, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terra Jones-Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well.T hat's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well.T hat's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(540) 835-5844 View (540) 835-5844
Photo of Brenda Lynn Dominguez - Brenda Dominguez LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda Dominguez LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
People come to see me because something isn't quite working for them in their lives, and through the insights of counseling, I can help them make a positive change. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 25 years experience, providing compassionate counseling and have been in private practice since 2005.
People come to see me because something isn't quite working for them in their lives, and through the insights of counseling, I can help them make a positive change. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 25 years experience, providing compassionate counseling and have been in private practice since 2005.
(540) 772-1263 View (540) 772-1263
Photo of Jessica Rill, MEd
Jessica Rill
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
I am a Resident in Counseling currently working toward LPC licensure under the clinical supervision of Whitney Artutis, LPC. I have worked in various roles with children and adults since 2007, including Therapeutic Day Treatment, School Counseling and inpatient mental health settings. Within those different roles, I’ve had the opportunity to work with individuals with a variety of mental health diagnoses, substance use disorders and people who are in crisis. I love to incorporate visuals, art, games and other creative techniques into therapy to help clients get the most out of their treatment.
I am a Resident in Counseling currently working toward LPC licensure under the clinical supervision of Whitney Artutis, LPC. I have worked in various roles with children and adults since 2007, including Therapeutic Day Treatment, School Counseling and inpatient mental health settings. Within those different roles, I’ve had the opportunity to work with individuals with a variety of mental health diagnoses, substance use disorders and people who are in crisis. I love to incorporate visuals, art, games and other creative techniques into therapy to help clients get the most out of their treatment.
(540) 502-3661 View (540) 502-3661
Photo of Chad Runyon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chad Runyon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia who believes that a tailored mix of experiential processes and existential discussions can contribute to a greater awareness of self and a more meaningful life. I work best with adults who feel stuck, trapped or left behind and are also willing to to take healthy, manageable risks that can open new doors to their future.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia who believes that a tailored mix of experiential processes and existential discussions can contribute to a greater awareness of self and a more meaningful life. I work best with adults who feel stuck, trapped or left behind and are also willing to to take healthy, manageable risks that can open new doors to their future.
(571) 506-7109 View (571) 506-7109
Photo of Jennifer Bell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
I provide individual counseling services for adolescents 16 and older and adults who are experiencing chaos, pain, confusion, or who feel something is absent in their life. I work with you to increase your own self-awareness and utilize your strengths to create the positive growth you desire. I provide support, honesty, compassion, and encouragement as you go through your journey of growth and healing.
I provide individual counseling services for adolescents 16 and older and adults who are experiencing chaos, pain, confusion, or who feel something is absent in their life. I work with you to increase your own self-awareness and utilize your strengths to create the positive growth you desire. I provide support, honesty, compassion, and encouragement as you go through your journey of growth and healing.
(540) 724-0566 View (540) 724-0566
Photo of James Dayton Olsen, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Dayton Olsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
I am a young therapist, and I am very passionate about my profession and the lives of my patients. I hail from Fredericksburg, VA, but am proud to call the Southwestern portion of the state my home. I have a diverse background, having worked in substance abuse, community clinics, and a private practice. I perform most forms of traditional talk therapy, though I am not very concerned with theories of counseling (they don't matter much anyways :) ). I strive to develop close, meaningful connections with my patients, and these relationships are the driving force in my work.
I am a young therapist, and I am very passionate about my profession and the lives of my patients. I hail from Fredericksburg, VA, but am proud to call the Southwestern portion of the state my home. I have a diverse background, having worked in substance abuse, community clinics, and a private practice. I perform most forms of traditional talk therapy, though I am not very concerned with theories of counseling (they don't matter much anyways :) ). I strive to develop close, meaningful connections with my patients, and these relationships are the driving force in my work.
(540) 516-4730 View (540) 516-4730
Photo of Sarah Phillips, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah Phillips
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
Not accepting new clients
Occasionally feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges is a common experience. However, when feelings, thoughts and behaviors create limitations in life, I believe it is beneficial to explore these patterns. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative and strength-based. I strive to create a safe, warm environment where you feel comfortable exploring difficult topics, while also providing space to challenge you to achieve your goals.
Occasionally feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges is a common experience. However, when feelings, thoughts and behaviors create limitations in life, I believe it is beneficial to explore these patterns. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative and strength-based. I strive to create a safe, warm environment where you feel comfortable exploring difficult topics, while also providing space to challenge you to achieve your goals.
(540) 565-5892 View (540) 565-5892
Photo of Shelby Devericks, MA, LMHP-R
Shelby Devericks
Resident in Counseling, MA, LMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012
I have been in the mental health field for over five years. I have worked in an array of environments, such as an inpatient drug and alcohol rehab facility, and community services, such as crisis intervention and intensive outpatient. I have worked with really cool human beings from the ages of 4 to 85. I believe that you are the expert of your own experience. You know your body, thoughts, and feelings best and I value that knowledge. As a therapist, I utilize the collaborative approach to therapy meaning we work together to develop and reach your goals. If you aren't too sure what those goals are, that's okay too!
I have been in the mental health field for over five years. I have worked in an array of environments, such as an inpatient drug and alcohol rehab facility, and community services, such as crisis intervention and intensive outpatient. I have worked with really cool human beings from the ages of 4 to 85. I believe that you are the expert of your own experience. You know your body, thoughts, and feelings best and I value that knowledge. As a therapist, I utilize the collaborative approach to therapy meaning we work together to develop and reach your goals. If you aren't too sure what those goals are, that's okay too!
(540) 698-4424 View (540) 698-4424
Photo of Jeff Letchford, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Letchford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
Providing a non-judgmental environment meeting you with openness, fairness, dignity, and respect is Jeff’s main goal as he helps to build your emotional resilience. Together engaging in therapy that will best support your needs, utilizing your personal strengths, goals, and creating appropriate strategies to help you succeed. Jeff honors the connection between mind, body and spirit; recognizing the holistic view of the client’s needs. Jeff provides quality services to adolescents and adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, life transitions, and other issues that may bring them to therapy.
Providing a non-judgmental environment meeting you with openness, fairness, dignity, and respect is Jeff’s main goal as he helps to build your emotional resilience. Together engaging in therapy that will best support your needs, utilizing your personal strengths, goals, and creating appropriate strategies to help you succeed. Jeff honors the connection between mind, body and spirit; recognizing the holistic view of the client’s needs. Jeff provides quality services to adolescents and adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, life transitions, and other issues that may bring them to therapy.
(540) 302-2961 View (540) 302-2961
Photo of Jessica Niedermeier - Haven Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Haven Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Have you faced a difficult situation in your life that persists despite your attempts to move forward? Are you experiencing emotional triggers, cognitive difficulties, or unexplained physical issues? Maybe you're struggling with decision-making, feeling overwhelmed or lacking motivation for everyday activities? If these symptoms describe you, then it may be time to seek professional support. I provide a secure space to address your challenges, regain control of your life and achieve personal growth. Let's collaborate to re-establish your identity, set meaningful objectives, and unlock your full potential!
Have you faced a difficult situation in your life that persists despite your attempts to move forward? Are you experiencing emotional triggers, cognitive difficulties, or unexplained physical issues? Maybe you're struggling with decision-making, feeling overwhelmed or lacking motivation for everyday activities? If these symptoms describe you, then it may be time to seek professional support. I provide a secure space to address your challenges, regain control of your life and achieve personal growth. Let's collaborate to re-establish your identity, set meaningful objectives, and unlock your full potential!
(540) 386-0553 x540798 View (540) 386-0553 x540798
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Roanoke, VA

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Roanoke, VA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
74% Stress
64% Coping Skills
64% Life Transitions
62% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
77% Anthem
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Roanoke, VA see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Roanoke?

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.