Therapists in Suffolk City County, VA

Photo of Beverly Lambert Frazier, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Beverly Lambert Frazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Suffolk, VA 23435
Beverly Lambert Frazier, LPC, helps individuals and families in Virginia navigate meaningful change with compassion, clarity, and evidence-based care. She works with children, adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors, offering a grounded therapeutic presence for those seeking support with emotional challenges, relationship stress, or life transitions. As part of her work at LifeStance Health, Beverly provides individualized care for concerns such as alcohol and drug use issues, anxiety, and trauma-related difficulties.
Beverly Lambert Frazier, LPC, helps individuals and families in Virginia navigate meaningful change with compassion, clarity, and evidence-based care. She works with children, adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors, offering a grounded therapeutic presence for those seeking support with emotional challenges, relationship stress, or life transitions. As part of her work at LifeStance Health, Beverly provides individualized care for concerns such as alcohol and drug use issues, anxiety, and trauma-related difficulties.
(757) 231-9945 View (757) 231-9945
Photo of Kristy Livsey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Kristy Livsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
5 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23436
You’re doing all you can, but it feels like you're unraveling. Maybe you’re stuck in anxious thoughts that won’t quiet down, haunted by past experiences, navigating a life stressor, or parenting a child whose struggles leave you feeling helpless. It’s exhausting holding it all together when your mind and body are asking for relief. It can also be painful to watch your child overwhelmed by big emotions they don’t understand -resulting in meltdowns or clinginess. Therapy can be a place to breathe again, understand the weight you're carrying, and begin to feel like yourself, stronger and more in control.
You’re doing all you can, but it feels like you're unraveling. Maybe you’re stuck in anxious thoughts that won’t quiet down, haunted by past experiences, navigating a life stressor, or parenting a child whose struggles leave you feeling helpless. It’s exhausting holding it all together when your mind and body are asking for relief. It can also be painful to watch your child overwhelmed by big emotions they don’t understand -resulting in meltdowns or clinginess. Therapy can be a place to breathe again, understand the weight you're carrying, and begin to feel like yourself, stronger and more in control.
(757) 767-5267 View (757) 767-5267
Photo of Frances 'fran' Futrell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, CGIP
Frances 'fran' Futrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, CGIP
3 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434
Waitlist for new clients
We know that life gets difficult and overwhelming at times. It may even feel as if you're drowning or that things are just out of balance due to life's unexpected challenges. At Your Mental Health Matters, we help you obtain a healthier perspective so that you can live a balanced, W.E.A.L.T.H.Y. life!
We know that life gets difficult and overwhelming at times. It may even feel as if you're drowning or that things are just out of balance due to life's unexpected challenges. At Your Mental Health Matters, we help you obtain a healthier perspective so that you can live a balanced, W.E.A.L.T.H.Y. life!
(757) 798-7265 View (757) 798-7265
Photo of Raeanna (Aretha) Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Raeanna (Aretha) Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Suffolk, VA 23435
My name is Raeanna Porter and I am a Licensed Professional Therapist. I have been providing mental health services to culturally diverse individuals, couples and families for many years. I specifically work with individuals who have been diagnosed with serious mental illness, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder and trauma. If you find yourself struggling, sad, grieving, confused, trying to create a "new normal", lonely, lost and need assistance with finding your way, outpatient therapy in a safe, non-judgemental, therapeutic and peaceful environment could benefit you.
My name is Raeanna Porter and I am a Licensed Professional Therapist. I have been providing mental health services to culturally diverse individuals, couples and families for many years. I specifically work with individuals who have been diagnosed with serious mental illness, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder and trauma. If you find yourself struggling, sad, grieving, confused, trying to create a "new normal", lonely, lost and need assistance with finding your way, outpatient therapy in a safe, non-judgemental, therapeutic and peaceful environment could benefit you.
(757) 530-5439 View (757) 530-5439
Photo of Marissa Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marissa Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My mission at The Healing Haven is to provide a compassionate and supportive space for individuals navigating life's challenges. I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma while embracing transitions with resilience and hope. I strive to empower individuals to heal, grow, and rediscover their inner strength through personalized therapeutic approaches, fostering a journey toward a balanced and fulfilling life.
My mission at The Healing Haven is to provide a compassionate and supportive space for individuals navigating life's challenges. I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma while embracing transitions with resilience and hope. I strive to empower individuals to heal, grow, and rediscover their inner strength through personalized therapeutic approaches, fostering a journey toward a balanced and fulfilling life.
(757) 895-7495 View (757) 895-7495
Photo of Tammy Willard, ABD, MS, MA, BA
Tammy Willard
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a family focused lifestyle and whole foods plant based coach. My hope is to empower caregivers and their families of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds who are looking to make positive changes in their lifestyle. I’m a Masters level practitioner in Special Education with Doctoral Level studies (ABD) in Infant Early Childhood Development with an emphasis on Mental Health and Developmental Disorders. I lost my first husband to cancer while raising a little boy with severe developmental challenges. Those experiences have led me to help families facing multigenerational health issues who are struggling to make sustainable changes.
I am a family focused lifestyle and whole foods plant based coach. My hope is to empower caregivers and their families of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds who are looking to make positive changes in their lifestyle. I’m a Masters level practitioner in Special Education with Doctoral Level studies (ABD) in Infant Early Childhood Development with an emphasis on Mental Health and Developmental Disorders. I lost my first husband to cancer while raising a little boy with severe developmental challenges. Those experiences have led me to help families facing multigenerational health issues who are struggling to make sustainable changes.
(757) 854-9123 View (757) 854-9123
Photo of Christine Hunter, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christine Hunter
Pre-Licensed Professional
Suffolk, VA 23434
Hello, and thank you for stopping by to learn about how I may be a good fit for you. I hope to focus on clients experiencing a shift following loss and/or grief following the loss of a loved one, a physical part of self, or a sense of role/identity potentially related to oncology/cancer care or military deployment. As a counseling intern, I am learning more about how I can best apply and adapt my skills when working with clients of all backgrounds, ages, and cultures. I plan to help others by identifying and implementing manageable coping strategies when navigating life's speedbumps.
Hello, and thank you for stopping by to learn about how I may be a good fit for you. I hope to focus on clients experiencing a shift following loss and/or grief following the loss of a loved one, a physical part of self, or a sense of role/identity potentially related to oncology/cancer care or military deployment. As a counseling intern, I am learning more about how I can best apply and adapt my skills when working with clients of all backgrounds, ages, and cultures. I plan to help others by identifying and implementing manageable coping strategies when navigating life's speedbumps.
(757) 919-9342 View (757) 919-9342
Photo of Dr. Patricia Jones, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Patricia Jones
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Although anxiety, depression & trauma may have touched your life, they don't have to rule your future! I am Dr. Patricia Jones, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Virginia. I will work along side you to empower you to take back control over your life. Are you feeling overwhelmed and don't know where to turn? I'll work with you to develop strategies to counter thoughts & self-talk negatively impacting your emotions & actions. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, test/performance anxiety, depression, anger-management problems, grief & loss, relationship issues & trauma symptoms, and PTSD as well as difficulties with daily living.
Although anxiety, depression & trauma may have touched your life, they don't have to rule your future! I am Dr. Patricia Jones, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Virginia. I will work along side you to empower you to take back control over your life. Are you feeling overwhelmed and don't know where to turn? I'll work with you to develop strategies to counter thoughts & self-talk negatively impacting your emotions & actions. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, test/performance anxiety, depression, anger-management problems, grief & loss, relationship issues & trauma symptoms, and PTSD as well as difficulties with daily living.
(757) 801-5337 View (757) 801-5337
Photo of Marie Evans - Synergy Somatic Psychotherapy , Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MSW
Synergy Somatic Psychotherapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MSW
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434
Tired of talk therapy without real change? Experience the power of Somatic Psychotherapy and Hypno-Breathwork. I specialize in mind-body healing that goes beyond traditional methods. As a master practitioner in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), I help clients rapidly process trauma, anxiety, depression, and stress using eye movements and guided visualization. Sessions are often shorter in duration but deeper in impact. You don’t have to stay stuck—lasting transformation is possible. Let’s reconnect your mind and body so healing can begin.
Tired of talk therapy without real change? Experience the power of Somatic Psychotherapy and Hypno-Breathwork. I specialize in mind-body healing that goes beyond traditional methods. As a master practitioner in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), I help clients rapidly process trauma, anxiety, depression, and stress using eye movements and guided visualization. Sessions are often shorter in duration but deeper in impact. You don’t have to stay stuck—lasting transformation is possible. Let’s reconnect your mind and body so healing can begin.
(757) 974-8917 View (757) 974-8917
Photo of Lucy Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lucy Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi. My name is Lucy. Does there seem to be a challenge everywhere you look? Are you struggling with stressors at work, at home, or within your extended relationships? Are you dealing with feelings of overwhelm or having intrusive, worrying thoughts? Do you find it challenging to simply be kind to yourself? Regardless of your situation, I am so glad you are taking the steps to find support, and I hope that, together, we can discover what’s not working and get you back to balance. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience working with clients in various areas.
Hi. My name is Lucy. Does there seem to be a challenge everywhere you look? Are you struggling with stressors at work, at home, or within your extended relationships? Are you dealing with feelings of overwhelm or having intrusive, worrying thoughts? Do you find it challenging to simply be kind to yourself? Regardless of your situation, I am so glad you are taking the steps to find support, and I hope that, together, we can discover what’s not working and get you back to balance. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 20 years of experience working with clients in various areas.
(757) 244-9383 View (757) 244-9383
Photo of Leslie Hodge, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Leslie Hodge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I provide compassionate, expert care for individuals, couples, and families navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. My practice encompasses all core mental health issues, with specialized expertise in supporting the military population, addressing addiction, healing with domestic violence, and working with survivors of child abuse. With a deep commitment to fostering resilience and empowerment, I tailor evidenced-based approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you build stronger relationships and a healthier future.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience, I provide compassionate, expert care for individuals, couples, and families navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. My practice encompasses all core mental health issues, with specialized expertise in supporting the military population, addressing addiction, healing with domestic violence, and working with survivors of child abuse. With a deep commitment to fostering resilience and empowerment, I tailor evidenced-based approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you build stronger relationships and a healthier future.
(757) 906-3789 View (757) 906-3789
Photo of Kelly O'Donnell, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly O'Donnell
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434
I often work with thoughtful, capable people. People who often do much more than they realize. They may feel incredibly successful somedays and total overwhelm others. Internally, they may be carrying a heaviness: anxiety, perfectionism, ADHD, OCD, chronic stress, or a pressure that may be invisible to others. I work with high-achieving adults, students, neurodivergent clients, military-connected individuals and others who are seeking strength based therapy. Life can be incredibly heavy no matter how hard working, smart, or talented you are.
I often work with thoughtful, capable people. People who often do much more than they realize. They may feel incredibly successful somedays and total overwhelm others. Internally, they may be carrying a heaviness: anxiety, perfectionism, ADHD, OCD, chronic stress, or a pressure that may be invisible to others. I work with high-achieving adults, students, neurodivergent clients, military-connected individuals and others who are seeking strength based therapy. Life can be incredibly heavy no matter how hard working, smart, or talented you are.
(757) 447-2803 View (757) 447-2803
Photo of Vicky Michelle Dixon, Resident in Counseling, MS CMHC, RES
Vicky Michelle Dixon
Resident in Counseling, MS CMHC, RES
Suffolk, VA 23435
My core belief is to help individuals, including family therapeutic interventions to help individuals reach their goals, referencing their needs and wants. My duty as a therapist is to be understanding. I will be providing psychotherapy, and to be honest, with my patients in providing individualized care. My core therapies are Cognitive Behavior therapy, Dialectic interventions, Narrative therapeutic interventions, Grief therapeutic interventions, Trauma therapeutic interventions, and Structural therapeutic interventions, on an integrated approach, as listed based on all clients from children to adults.
My core belief is to help individuals, including family therapeutic interventions to help individuals reach their goals, referencing their needs and wants. My duty as a therapist is to be understanding. I will be providing psychotherapy, and to be honest, with my patients in providing individualized care. My core therapies are Cognitive Behavior therapy, Dialectic interventions, Narrative therapeutic interventions, Grief therapeutic interventions, Trauma therapeutic interventions, and Structural therapeutic interventions, on an integrated approach, as listed based on all clients from children to adults.
(757) 280-2521 View (757) 280-2521
Photo of Briana K Spellman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Briana K Spellman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Suffolk, VA 23435
I like helping people who are seeking support for self-esteem, self-forgiveness, and feeling more in control of their lives. I work with people that have varying definition of goals and wellness where we collaborate on what would make your life more balanced or healthy. I always work with empathy and try to be understanding. I believe getting to a point that you can laugh at your mistakes versus your dreams is part of healing. If finding ways to smile in the middle of the storm is for you, then I am here to help.
I like helping people who are seeking support for self-esteem, self-forgiveness, and feeling more in control of their lives. I work with people that have varying definition of goals and wellness where we collaborate on what would make your life more balanced or healthy. I always work with empathy and try to be understanding. I believe getting to a point that you can laugh at your mistakes versus your dreams is part of healing. If finding ways to smile in the middle of the storm is for you, then I am here to help.
(757) 260-4975 View (757) 260-4975
Photo of Twaina Manee' Carpenter - Healing & ReStoryed, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC, NGH
Healing & ReStoryed, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC, NGH
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Twaina Carpenter. My approach to counseling is to actively listen in order to connect with each person on a personal level to get to know them and create a safe space for them to share their dis-ease. Then we, as a team, work on healing those wounds created from past experiences. I approach psychotherapy from a person-centered, supportive role. My main role working with clients is awareness of their behaviors, emotions, and thoughts, assisting them to come off of automatic programming, causing much dis-ease. Come learn how to walk as a Thriver, not just a Survivor!
Hi there, I'm Twaina Carpenter. My approach to counseling is to actively listen in order to connect with each person on a personal level to get to know them and create a safe space for them to share their dis-ease. Then we, as a team, work on healing those wounds created from past experiences. I approach psychotherapy from a person-centered, supportive role. My main role working with clients is awareness of their behaviors, emotions, and thoughts, assisting them to come off of automatic programming, causing much dis-ease. Come learn how to walk as a Thriver, not just a Survivor!
(540) 712-6023 View (540) 712-6023
Photo of Dr. Audrey King, Psychologist, PhD, LPC
Dr. Audrey King
Psychologist, PhD, LPC
Suffolk, VA 23435
Dr. Audrey King, Ph.D., LPC, a licensed professional counselor at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to helping individuals across Virginia navigate their mental health challenges and find healing. With extensive experience working with children, adults, and families, Dr. King offers compassionate, tailored therapy designed to meet the unique needs of each client. Her expertise includes treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand how their thoughts and emotions influence their behaviors. Dr.
Dr. Audrey King, Ph.D., LPC, a licensed professional counselor at LifeStance Health, is dedicated to helping individuals across Virginia navigate their mental health challenges and find healing. With extensive experience working with children, adults, and families, Dr. King offers compassionate, tailored therapy designed to meet the unique needs of each client. Her expertise includes treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand how their thoughts and emotions influence their behaviors. Dr.
(757) 208-3064 View (757) 208-3064
Photo of Pamela Mariglia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Pamela Mariglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello! I am a USAF Veteran with over 26 years of experience working with men and women, including couples, adolescents, Veterans, and those experiencing grief. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you gain insight and form strategies that result in a richer quality of life. I have experience using many modalities of treatment and am certain that we can adapt a style that works well for your needs.
Hello! I am a USAF Veteran with over 26 years of experience working with men and women, including couples, adolescents, Veterans, and those experiencing grief. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you gain insight and form strategies that result in a richer quality of life. I have experience using many modalities of treatment and am certain that we can adapt a style that works well for your needs.
(757) 906-3452 View (757) 906-3452
Photo of Martha Paz, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Martha Paz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23434
Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, especially with the stress of today’s world, rising costs, and constant pressure to keep things together. I offer a calm, supportive space for children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, emotional regulation, overwhelm, and major life transitions. My approach is warm, grounding, and practical, helping you move toward clarity, balance, and emotional relief.
Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, especially with the stress of today’s world, rising costs, and constant pressure to keep things together. I offer a calm, supportive space for children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, emotional regulation, overwhelm, and major life transitions. My approach is warm, grounding, and practical, helping you move toward clarity, balance, and emotional relief.
(757) 829-7084 View (757) 829-7084
Photo of Sherrial Swiney, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW , LCSW-S
Sherrial Swiney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW , LCSW-S
Online Only
I strive to create emotional safety and comfortability for my clients. I have experience working with individuals and families affected by the stressors of life. I provide compassion that allows you to open up about the traumatic experiences you've endured that prevent you from rising to your authentic self. This environment presents a safe space to explore your troubles, create and achieve goals, establish healthy boundaries, strengthen your interpersonal relationships, and build your self-confidence.
I strive to create emotional safety and comfortability for my clients. I have experience working with individuals and families affected by the stressors of life. I provide compassion that allows you to open up about the traumatic experiences you've endured that prevent you from rising to your authentic self. This environment presents a safe space to explore your troubles, create and achieve goals, establish healthy boundaries, strengthen your interpersonal relationships, and build your self-confidence.
(757) 835-3692 View (757) 835-3692
Photo of Karen Massey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Karen Massey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Suffolk, VA 23434
I am passionate about creating a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel empowered to unpack their emotional pain and begin their journey toward healing and peace. I actively listen to my clients' concerns with empathy and compassion, offering personalized coping strategies to assist them.
I am passionate about creating a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel empowered to unpack their emotional pain and begin their journey toward healing and peace. I actively listen to my clients' concerns with empathy and compassion, offering personalized coping strategies to assist them.
(757) 780-5779 View (757) 780-5779

See more therapy options for Suffolk City County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Suffolk City County, VA

200+

Average cost per session

$139

Therapists in Suffolk City County, VA who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
90% Social Anxiety
90% Health Anxiety
90% Driving Anxiety
82% Depression
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Complex PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
80% Anthem
79% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Suffolk City County, VA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

92% Female
8% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Suffolk City County?

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.