Therapists in Allen, TX

Photo of Sara Salinas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Salinas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Hi, I’m Sara, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. With a rich background working across life’s spectrum, from the very young to the elderly, I've tailored my focus to support adults navigating mental health challenges. My passions as a mother and a traveler provide me with a unique perspective and empathy, which I bring into each session.
Hi, I’m Sara, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas. With a rich background working across life’s spectrum, from the very young to the elderly, I've tailored my focus to support adults navigating mental health challenges. My passions as a mother and a traveler provide me with a unique perspective and empathy, which I bring into each session.
(940) 290-6772 View (940) 290-6772
Photo of Sandra L Shelton, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra L Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
I have been in education for 35 years and served adolescents as a counselor for the past 20 years. My areas of interest include anxiety, panic attacks, grief and phobias that clients often experience. What I find most helpful to people is to provide a warm and safe place to express the feelings and experiences in a non-judgmental atmosphere. I also believe it is important to instill confidence in them. These days it seems the relationship between client and therapist is more important than ever and I hope to build such bonds.
I have been in education for 35 years and served adolescents as a counselor for the past 20 years. My areas of interest include anxiety, panic attacks, grief and phobias that clients often experience. What I find most helpful to people is to provide a warm and safe place to express the feelings and experiences in a non-judgmental atmosphere. I also believe it is important to instill confidence in them. These days it seems the relationship between client and therapist is more important than ever and I hope to build such bonds.
(214) 833-8522 View (214) 833-8522
Photo of Christina Christabel Ayisah Eyeson, MA
Christina Christabel Ayisah Eyeson
LPC-Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
One way to characterize Life is by acknowledging its inherent complexity and challenges. Whether in its most beautiful moments or its darkest hours, Life often proves intricate and demanding. With each new chapter, we encounter novel experiences, emotions, and opportunities that test our abilities. There's no universal solution to effortlessly navigate this journey; we must adapt and learn as we progress. If you find yourself here reading these words, consider it a gentle reminder that you're not alone. You don't have to walk this path in solitude. Together, we can face life's trials.
One way to characterize Life is by acknowledging its inherent complexity and challenges. Whether in its most beautiful moments or its darkest hours, Life often proves intricate and demanding. With each new chapter, we encounter novel experiences, emotions, and opportunities that test our abilities. There's no universal solution to effortlessly navigate this journey; we must adapt and learn as we progress. If you find yourself here reading these words, consider it a gentle reminder that you're not alone. You don't have to walk this path in solitude. Together, we can face life's trials.
(972) 846-0617 View (972) 846-0617
Photo of Malik Elhindi, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malik Elhindi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
The single most impactful experience in my life was therapy. I will never forget how it felt to have someone reach down and pull me up out of the water. The transformational experience of therapy is unlike any other, and I am excited to offer that same experience to you.
The single most impactful experience in my life was therapy. I will never forget how it felt to have someone reach down and pull me up out of the water. The transformational experience of therapy is unlike any other, and I am excited to offer that same experience to you.
(214) 225-4984 View (214) 225-4984
Photo of Todd Daehnert, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Todd Daehnert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75002
Finding the right therapist/coach can be a whip for sure. How on earth do I choose who to divulge my struggles with! If you want someone to be real and honest with you but not judgemental, look no further. If you believe you are ready, let's get started and get you some relief-life is too short. I believe we ALL have a purpose and that we are all affected by choices, good and bad, we have made in our lifetime. We can change despite those choices but sometimes the consequences don't.
Finding the right therapist/coach can be a whip for sure. How on earth do I choose who to divulge my struggles with! If you want someone to be real and honest with you but not judgemental, look no further. If you believe you are ready, let's get started and get you some relief-life is too short. I believe we ALL have a purpose and that we are all affected by choices, good and bad, we have made in our lifetime. We can change despite those choices but sometimes the consequences don't.
(469) 270-5446 View (469) 270-5446
Photo of Susan E Blandino, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan E Blandino
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
Helping children and teens is what I'm most passionate about. I am a licensed psychologist with a specialty in clinical child psychology. I feel so fortunate to have been helping children and their families since 1997. I specialize in psychological evaluations and therapy for school aged children and adolescents. My evaluations typically address: ADHD/ADD, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Some of the clients that I tend to work best with include gifted children, those with anxiety disorders, and children on the autism spectrum.
Helping children and teens is what I'm most passionate about. I am a licensed psychologist with a specialty in clinical child psychology. I feel so fortunate to have been helping children and their families since 1997. I specialize in psychological evaluations and therapy for school aged children and adolescents. My evaluations typically address: ADHD/ADD, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Some of the clients that I tend to work best with include gifted children, those with anxiety disorders, and children on the autism spectrum.
(972) 471-9065 View (972) 471-9065
Photo of Barbara Baselice, MS, LPC, NCC, LCDC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Baselice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
OCD and Anxiety Specialist. Feeling constantly on edge and trying to function, but never really feeling okay is tough. Feeling a sense of helplessness while you struggle with OCD, anxiety and sadness can cause great stress on you and the entire family. Learning strategies to help overcome your anxiety and OCD and talking about your struggles can help you feel better and reclaim your life again. I can help you boost your adolescent and/or your self esteem to help your family get back on track. I understand first hand the struggle you are having and I am here to help you and your family gain a more balanced, happier life.
OCD and Anxiety Specialist. Feeling constantly on edge and trying to function, but never really feeling okay is tough. Feeling a sense of helplessness while you struggle with OCD, anxiety and sadness can cause great stress on you and the entire family. Learning strategies to help overcome your anxiety and OCD and talking about your struggles can help you feel better and reclaim your life again. I can help you boost your adolescent and/or your self esteem to help your family get back on track. I understand first hand the struggle you are having and I am here to help you and your family gain a more balanced, happier life.
(469) 972-6788 View (469) 972-6788
Photo of Fatima Hanif, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Fatima Hanif
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
I believe that everyone has the ability to grow, heal, and find meaning when offered a safe, supportive, and genuine relationship. I am here to offer you that safe place to become your most authentic self. I have extensive experience and training in working with children, teens, and adults that find themselves needing support. I’ve worked with clients that struggled with relationship issues, body image, identity concerns as an immigrant or child of immigrants, grief from loss, and identifying and healing trauma.
I believe that everyone has the ability to grow, heal, and find meaning when offered a safe, supportive, and genuine relationship. I am here to offer you that safe place to become your most authentic self. I have extensive experience and training in working with children, teens, and adults that find themselves needing support. I’ve worked with clients that struggled with relationship issues, body image, identity concerns as an immigrant or child of immigrants, grief from loss, and identifying and healing trauma.
(972) 945-3248 View (972) 945-3248
Photo of Marisa Burton, MA, LPC-A
Marisa Burton
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Are you longing for safety, security, and peace within yourself and your relationships with others? Has trauma, mental health challenges, or relational conflict prohibited you from experiencing joy in your everyday life? Know there is hope, and you CAN heal! Hi, I'm Marisa, and I am so glad you are here! Genuine connection is the heart of the counseling relationship, and you will find me authentic as a person and counselor. I utilize a person-centered, collaborative, trauma-informed, and integrative therapeutic approach and will adapt treatment to fit the unique needs of each of my clients.
Are you longing for safety, security, and peace within yourself and your relationships with others? Has trauma, mental health challenges, or relational conflict prohibited you from experiencing joy in your everyday life? Know there is hope, and you CAN heal! Hi, I'm Marisa, and I am so glad you are here! Genuine connection is the heart of the counseling relationship, and you will find me authentic as a person and counselor. I utilize a person-centered, collaborative, trauma-informed, and integrative therapeutic approach and will adapt treatment to fit the unique needs of each of my clients.
(469) 529-6309 View (469) 529-6309
Photo of Nimisha Patel, LCSW-S, RD, LD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nimisha Patel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RD, LD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Can you imagine the FREEDOM from being obsessed with your food, mood, weight, and eating? Enjoying food with friends and family instead of hiding and eating in guilt and shame? Experiencing the taste, texture, and pleasure of food instead of feeling out of control or numb while eating? Enjoying vacations and special events, taking photos without feeling embarrassed about your body? Enjoying the color and feel of your clothes. Eating without gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea? What does your FREEDOM from Food and Mood struggles look like? Let's talk about the quality of life you want to live in this FREEDOM. Reclaim and Live!
Can you imagine the FREEDOM from being obsessed with your food, mood, weight, and eating? Enjoying food with friends and family instead of hiding and eating in guilt and shame? Experiencing the taste, texture, and pleasure of food instead of feeling out of control or numb while eating? Enjoying vacations and special events, taking photos without feeling embarrassed about your body? Enjoying the color and feel of your clothes. Eating without gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea? What does your FREEDOM from Food and Mood struggles look like? Let's talk about the quality of life you want to live in this FREEDOM. Reclaim and Live!
(972) 645-4043 View (972) 645-4043
Photo of Thomas Hoyt, MS, LPC-I, LPC Intern
Thomas Hoyt
LPC Intern, MS, LPC-I
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
New Clients Welcome! Sometimes you can be in a room full of people and feel totally alone. You tell yourself that if anyone else knew your struggles they wouldn’t understand, they'd tell you to “get over it” or worse, they would reject you completely. We often strive to prove our value as people through achievement or by doing for others, and we lose sight of who we are and what we want. You deserve a space where you can be truly seen, heard, and accepted as you are where you're at; counseling can be that place.
New Clients Welcome! Sometimes you can be in a room full of people and feel totally alone. You tell yourself that if anyone else knew your struggles they wouldn’t understand, they'd tell you to “get over it” or worse, they would reject you completely. We often strive to prove our value as people through achievement or by doing for others, and we lose sight of who we are and what we want. You deserve a space where you can be truly seen, heard, and accepted as you are where you're at; counseling can be that place.
(972) 433-9768 View (972) 433-9768
Photo of Lauren Tademy, MS, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lauren Tademy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75002  (Online Only)
In our relationships, we hope to feel connected, cared for, and understood. However, after a conversation with a loved one, you may find yourself feeling frustrated, misunderstood, or exhausted. Conversations can feel like they're going in circles and you may be blowing up or shutting down before reaching a resolution. You may even find yourself communicating in ways that hinder connection and understanding because you aren't sure how else to express how you feel. If this sounds familiar, please understand that you're not alone. Together we can all work to process those responses and have healthier conversations.
In our relationships, we hope to feel connected, cared for, and understood. However, after a conversation with a loved one, you may find yourself feeling frustrated, misunderstood, or exhausted. Conversations can feel like they're going in circles and you may be blowing up or shutting down before reaching a resolution. You may even find yourself communicating in ways that hinder connection and understanding because you aren't sure how else to express how you feel. If this sounds familiar, please understand that you're not alone. Together we can all work to process those responses and have healthier conversations.
(832) 838-4609 View (832) 838-4609
Photo of Heather Williams Dutcher, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Williams Dutcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Relationships provide a window to the heart of an individual like no other. Our closest relationships tend to reveal our most wounded places. Those hurts, if left unresolved, are carried forward and recast into our exiting patterns of relating. All our experiences, but most particularly our pain, become the filter through which we sift and construct our view of self, our approach to life, our capacity love and be loved, and our ability to trust.
Relationships provide a window to the heart of an individual like no other. Our closest relationships tend to reveal our most wounded places. Those hurts, if left unresolved, are carried forward and recast into our exiting patterns of relating. All our experiences, but most particularly our pain, become the filter through which we sift and construct our view of self, our approach to life, our capacity love and be loved, and our ability to trust.
(469) 378-9227 View (469) 378-9227
Photo of Vincent M. Miceli, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vincent M. Miceli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013  (Online Only)
We all feel stuck, lost, or heartbroken at some point in our lives and need help getting back on track. Maybe even on a completely new path. I'm here to partner with you to do just that along your journey. I believe you have the strength, resources, and capability to push through obstacles and get to a place where you can feel empowered and hopeful about the direction of your life. Someone who may choose to work with me is someone who feels motivated to change, to find their purpose, and to work collaboratively to achieve it.
We all feel stuck, lost, or heartbroken at some point in our lives and need help getting back on track. Maybe even on a completely new path. I'm here to partner with you to do just that along your journey. I believe you have the strength, resources, and capability to push through obstacles and get to a place where you can feel empowered and hopeful about the direction of your life. Someone who may choose to work with me is someone who feels motivated to change, to find their purpose, and to work collaboratively to achieve it.
(940) 204-0697 View (940) 204-0697
Photo of Ellie Wade, MS, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellie Wade
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013  (Online Only)
I believe that all people have an innate ability to heal and grow under the right conditions. I practice from a person-centered foundation while utilizing CBT interventions in session to enact self- acceptance and provide clients the tools needed for change. I strive to make conversations about mental health and self-care relatable, safe, fun, and empowering. I believe it is a privilege to gently and genuinely hold space for and guide clients through some of the most significant, or potentially difficult, experiences of their lives while collaboratively working towards self-growth and healing.
I believe that all people have an innate ability to heal and grow under the right conditions. I practice from a person-centered foundation while utilizing CBT interventions in session to enact self- acceptance and provide clients the tools needed for change. I strive to make conversations about mental health and self-care relatable, safe, fun, and empowering. I believe it is a privilege to gently and genuinely hold space for and guide clients through some of the most significant, or potentially difficult, experiences of their lives while collaboratively working towards self-growth and healing.
(972) 309-9082 View (972) 309-9082
Collin Brower
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75002
I specialize in behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). These modalities are designed to target irrational thoughts and beliefs which cause most peoples distress. I also practice Positive Psychology, which focuses on individual happiness and the steps we go to achieve it.
I specialize in behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). These modalities are designed to target irrational thoughts and beliefs which cause most peoples distress. I also practice Positive Psychology, which focuses on individual happiness and the steps we go to achieve it.
(469) 663-8734 View (469) 663-8734
Photo of Dr. Kaitlyn Milstead, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Kaitlyn Milstead
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
My goal as a clinician is to join you on your healing journey. During times of difficulty, it can feel as though we are walking through the swampland of our souls. My hope is to throw on some rain boots and take that trek with you! My therapeutic theory is that we as individuals are not defined by our struggles, but that we are whole, healthy individuals. It is important that we work collaboratively against these struggles and rediscover those whole and healthy identities. My particular areas of interest include eating disorders, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
My goal as a clinician is to join you on your healing journey. During times of difficulty, it can feel as though we are walking through the swampland of our souls. My hope is to throw on some rain boots and take that trek with you! My therapeutic theory is that we as individuals are not defined by our struggles, but that we are whole, healthy individuals. It is important that we work collaboratively against these struggles and rediscover those whole and healthy identities. My particular areas of interest include eating disorders, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(469) 551-5291 View (469) 551-5291
Photo of Phillip Michael Benavides, MS, LPC-S, NCC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phillip Michael Benavides
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Feeling lost, or maybe you’re struggling with a big life change? No one is too far gone or “broken.” My goal is to help you to finish your past, be present for today, and make progress forward into your tomorrows. I enjoy the process of walking alongside my clients’ unique experiences when they feel that they may be at their lowest point. I strive to provide a positive and encouraging space for my clients to become aware of the issues in their paths, while also helping them to uncover the hidden tools that they have access to. One process I process I love to implement is Name it-Claim it-Tame it-Change it.
Feeling lost, or maybe you’re struggling with a big life change? No one is too far gone or “broken.” My goal is to help you to finish your past, be present for today, and make progress forward into your tomorrows. I enjoy the process of walking alongside my clients’ unique experiences when they feel that they may be at their lowest point. I strive to provide a positive and encouraging space for my clients to become aware of the issues in their paths, while also helping them to uncover the hidden tools that they have access to. One process I process I love to implement is Name it-Claim it-Tame it-Change it.
(940) 580-1931 View (940) 580-1931
Photo of Dan Wichman, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan Wichman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in the state of Texas. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1990. I spent 20 years in sales and business before completing my Masters degree Educational Psychology-Counseling in 2010 from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. My experience in business and counseling has given me the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele including: individuals, families, couples: male or female, adolescent to adult and affluent to impoverished.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in the state of Texas. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1990. I spent 20 years in sales and business before completing my Masters degree Educational Psychology-Counseling in 2010 from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. My experience in business and counseling has given me the opportunity to treat a diversified clientele including: individuals, families, couples: male or female, adolescent to adult and affluent to impoverished.
(972) 787-2675 View (972) 787-2675
Photo of Beth Adell, MA
Beth Adell
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75002
My life experiences contribute to my compassionate heart and deep desire to serve those who are hurting, to walk alongside others on their journey to positive emotional and mental health. I connect well with women going through a divorce, struggling with the issues of life, teenage girls hurting from negative influences in their lives, couples desiring to reconcile after infidelity or even those couples who have just drifted apart over the years looking to reconnect. All of us can benefit from talking with someone outside the emotions who can empathize yet offer wisdom and insight.
My life experiences contribute to my compassionate heart and deep desire to serve those who are hurting, to walk alongside others on their journey to positive emotional and mental health. I connect well with women going through a divorce, struggling with the issues of life, teenage girls hurting from negative influences in their lives, couples desiring to reconcile after infidelity or even those couples who have just drifted apart over the years looking to reconnect. All of us can benefit from talking with someone outside the emotions who can empathize yet offer wisdom and insight.
(469) 297-9914 View (469) 297-9914
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Allen, TX

300+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Allen, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
79% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
74% Stress
71% Coping Skills
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
76% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Allen, TX see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Allen?

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.