Therapists in Somerset, Bellevue, WA

Photo of Nicolette Moore Rutan, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicolette Moore Rutan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients for 2025. If you're ready to start out the new year working towards what you want for your life, I encourage you to reach out! You might feel anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, lonely, & burnt out. The pressure of others’ expectations and doing everything for everyone but yourself weighs you down. You constantly overthink, worrying about the future and what others think of you. Your schedule is packed, yet you feel unfulfilled and alone. You want to make a change, but you struggle with motivation and have no idea where to start. You're starting to wonder if it will always be this way. It doesn't have to be.
Accepting new clients for 2025. If you're ready to start out the new year working towards what you want for your life, I encourage you to reach out! You might feel anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, lonely, & burnt out. The pressure of others’ expectations and doing everything for everyone but yourself weighs you down. You constantly overthink, worrying about the future and what others think of you. Your schedule is packed, yet you feel unfulfilled and alone. You want to make a change, but you struggle with motivation and have no idea where to start. You're starting to wonder if it will always be this way. It doesn't have to be.
(425) 532-5819 View (425) 532-5819
Photo of Wyatt M Lynch, LMHCA, Counselor
Wyatt M Lynch
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults, focusing on key areas such as anger management, grief and loss, parent-teen relationships, social skills development, navigating the impacts of technology and social media, and trauma. In my practice, I help both adolescents and adults gain a deeper understanding of their emotions and how these emotions influence behavior. Through this awareness, clients can build healthier coping strategies. My goal is to empower my clients to see, and be their best selves.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults, focusing on key areas such as anger management, grief and loss, parent-teen relationships, social skills development, navigating the impacts of technology and social media, and trauma. In my practice, I help both adolescents and adults gain a deeper understanding of their emotions and how these emotions influence behavior. Through this awareness, clients can build healthier coping strategies. My goal is to empower my clients to see, and be their best selves.
(425) 546-0614 View (425) 546-0614
Photo of Eileen S Putter - Grief Counseling Northwest, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Grief Counseling Northwest
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerset, Bellevue, WA 98006
Everyone experiences loss and grief in their life, and every person goes through the grief process in their own way and at their own rate. I like to serve as a guide/facilitator as each client works toward "healing" on their unique journey through grief. I have been a Hospice Bereavement Counselor for 12 years and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, adults and seniors. I believe in active listening, and provide caring support and resources to grieving clients.
Everyone experiences loss and grief in their life, and every person goes through the grief process in their own way and at their own rate. I like to serve as a guide/facilitator as each client works toward "healing" on their unique journey through grief. I have been a Hospice Bereavement Counselor for 12 years and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, adults and seniors. I believe in active listening, and provide caring support and resources to grieving clients.
(206) 639-2473 View (206) 639-2473
Photo of Dave Porter, MA, LMHC, SUDP, Gottman, Counselor
Dave Porter
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP, Gottman
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling and wanting a more empowered life? Thru our work together you will experience a safe place to explore emotions, gain insights, practice new skills, and create positive change in your life. My person centric psychotherapy is focused on your goals, is strength-based, and rooted in a systems-thinking approach. I embrace the fact every individual has unique strengths and needs. Collaboratively we will work in ways that strengthen your relationships with Self and others; while facilitating your mind, body, and spiritual health.
Are you struggling and wanting a more empowered life? Thru our work together you will experience a safe place to explore emotions, gain insights, practice new skills, and create positive change in your life. My person centric psychotherapy is focused on your goals, is strength-based, and rooted in a systems-thinking approach. I embrace the fact every individual has unique strengths and needs. Collaboratively we will work in ways that strengthen your relationships with Self and others; while facilitating your mind, body, and spiritual health.
(206) 743-9293 View (206) 743-9293
Photo of Daniel Menely, LMHC
Daniel Menely
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a couple, you may be struggling to communicate and connect. Criticism, blaming, and keeping score may be the norm, leaving you emotionally siloed. Maybe you are questioning whether your partner can grow or care for you in the ways you need. In sessions, we do not simply rehash the last fight or argue over who is more wrong. Instead, let’s bring ease back to your relationship with practical skills to connect better and recover from conflict more quickly. As a Gottman Method level three practitioner, I offer a structured, evidence-based approach that addresses repetitive communication problems while building trust and connection.
As a couple, you may be struggling to communicate and connect. Criticism, blaming, and keeping score may be the norm, leaving you emotionally siloed. Maybe you are questioning whether your partner can grow or care for you in the ways you need. In sessions, we do not simply rehash the last fight or argue over who is more wrong. Instead, let’s bring ease back to your relationship with practical skills to connect better and recover from conflict more quickly. As a Gottman Method level three practitioner, I offer a structured, evidence-based approach that addresses repetitive communication problems while building trust and connection.
(425) 426-2913 View (425) 426-2913
Photo of Stella Breytman - Dr. Stella Breytman, Sex Therapist, PhD, CST, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Stella Breytman, Sex Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, CST, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate availability! Are you looking to improve your sex life, intimacy issues, or your relationship overall? Studies have linked sexual satisfaction to overall happiness, relationship satisfaction, and quality/longevity of life. As a Certified Sex Therapist with a completed PhD in sexology, I have the unique background to tailor sex therapy to focus on your experience and improve a wide range of sexual issues.
Immediate availability! Are you looking to improve your sex life, intimacy issues, or your relationship overall? Studies have linked sexual satisfaction to overall happiness, relationship satisfaction, and quality/longevity of life. As a Certified Sex Therapist with a completed PhD in sexology, I have the unique background to tailor sex therapy to focus on your experience and improve a wide range of sexual issues.
(509) 774-2972 View (509) 774-2972
Photo of Katelynn Saunders-Kosta, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Katelynn Saunders-Kosta
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients, availability within two weeks. As a mother of three and a wife, Katelynn brings a deep, personal understanding of family dynamics and the unique challenges of living with ADHD. Her own experiences have shaped her therapeutic approach, allowing her to connect with clients on a personal level while offering professional, compassionate guidance. She understands that life can be overwhelming and strives to create a space where her clients feel truly heard and supported.
Accepting New Clients, availability within two weeks. As a mother of three and a wife, Katelynn brings a deep, personal understanding of family dynamics and the unique challenges of living with ADHD. Her own experiences have shaped her therapeutic approach, allowing her to connect with clients on a personal level while offering professional, compassionate guidance. She understands that life can be overwhelming and strives to create a space where her clients feel truly heard and supported.
(253) 237-7704 View (253) 237-7704
Photo of Gail Westlin, MS, MEd, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Gail Westlin
Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerset, Bellevue, WA 98006
You may hear a calling to forge a new path toward a more meaningful life, one free of old patterns that no longer serve you or your relationships. The calling inspires you to go deeper within. You long to live life more fully with greater aliveness, creativity, and life purpose.
You may hear a calling to forge a new path toward a more meaningful life, one free of old patterns that no longer serve you or your relationships. The calling inspires you to go deeper within. You long to live life more fully with greater aliveness, creativity, and life purpose.
(206) 309-6498 View (206) 309-6498
Photo of Carol Lee Smith, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Lee Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Somerset, Bellevue, WA 98006
At times in your life when issues or relationships can seem overwhelming or physical challenges keep you from living up to your true potential, working with an experienced therapist can help you find resolution and personal growth. I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, couples, seniors and caregivers experiencing anxiety, stress or depression. Therapy can provide the opportunity to discuss current life challenges in a safe and confidential space. My approach is collaborative and supportive as we work together to understand your unique pattern of thoughts and behaviors that may currently get in the way when trying to resolve difficult life issues.
At times in your life when issues or relationships can seem overwhelming or physical challenges keep you from living up to your true potential, working with an experienced therapist can help you find resolution and personal growth. I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, couples, seniors and caregivers experiencing anxiety, stress or depression. Therapy can provide the opportunity to discuss current life challenges in a safe and confidential space. My approach is collaborative and supportive as we work together to understand your unique pattern of thoughts and behaviors that may currently get in the way when trying to resolve difficult life issues.
(425) 276-7087 View (425) 276-7087
Photo of Dr. Nancy Lau, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Nancy Lau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! I’m Dr. Nancy Lau. I am a licensed psychologist with a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Harvard University. Are you feeling stuck in unhealthy thought and behavioral patterns in your life, relationships, or career? Are ready to work towards meaningful self-change and a more fulfilling life? I draw on a decade of clinical experience utilizing evidence-based therapy practices to deliver positive outcomes based on your unique needs. I have researched and published book chapters and journal articles on mental health, resilience, and scientifically proven therapeutic methods.
Hello! I’m Dr. Nancy Lau. I am a licensed psychologist with a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Harvard University. Are you feeling stuck in unhealthy thought and behavioral patterns in your life, relationships, or career? Are ready to work towards meaningful self-change and a more fulfilling life? I draw on a decade of clinical experience utilizing evidence-based therapy practices to deliver positive outcomes based on your unique needs. I have researched and published book chapters and journal articles on mental health, resilience, and scientifically proven therapeutic methods.
(425) 728-2146 View (425) 728-2146
Photo of Hiromi Gerety, LMHC, LPC, NCC, MA, MHR, Counselor
Hiromi Gerety
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC, MA, MHR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerset, Bellevue, WA 98006
Are you struggling or stuck? Do you feel confused, overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or afraid? Do you feel sad, lonely, empty, lost, worthless, ashamed, or guilty? I am here to help you to go through your emotional pain, difficult life issues, relational issues, adjustment issues, mental health issues, or other overwhelming troubles and brokenness. I will listen and work with you to solve your issues and achieve your goals, to adjust to changes, to find yourself, and to feel connected to the world around you. I will walk with you in your journey to facilitate your healing and to grow into your full potential.
Are you struggling or stuck? Do you feel confused, overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or afraid? Do you feel sad, lonely, empty, lost, worthless, ashamed, or guilty? I am here to help you to go through your emotional pain, difficult life issues, relational issues, adjustment issues, mental health issues, or other overwhelming troubles and brokenness. I will listen and work with you to solve your issues and achieve your goals, to adjust to changes, to find yourself, and to feel connected to the world around you. I will walk with you in your journey to facilitate your healing and to grow into your full potential.
(206) 309-2628 View (206) 309-2628
Photo of Veronica Botsford, LMFTA, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Veronica Botsford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whatever your situation that has led you to seek therapy, one thing for certain is that change is inevitable, and growth is optional. We may not always recognize our agency, but we can choose whether to lean into the changes around us, or resist them. If you are curious about how to lean in, talk therapy can help.
Whatever your situation that has led you to seek therapy, one thing for certain is that change is inevitable, and growth is optional. We may not always recognize our agency, but we can choose whether to lean into the changes around us, or resist them. If you are curious about how to lean in, talk therapy can help.
(253) 264-0525 View (253) 264-0525
Photo of Monica Lynne, MA, LMHC, AASECT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Monica Lynne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMHC, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerset, Bellevue, WA 98006
Waitlist for new clients
I am continually seeking to grow as a therapist and expand in my knowledge and capacity to care for the diverse clients I serve. I approach my work with clients as a scaffolding experience of combining our knowledge, lived experiences and ability to navigate collaboratively with compassion, non-judgement, cultural awareness and empowerment. I work best with individuals and couples who lead with openness, curiosity and a true desire for personal growth. I feel most effective at working with those who have experienced infidelity/relationship ruptures, sexual assault/trauma, emotional stuck points related to sexuality and relationship.
I am continually seeking to grow as a therapist and expand in my knowledge and capacity to care for the diverse clients I serve. I approach my work with clients as a scaffolding experience of combining our knowledge, lived experiences and ability to navigate collaboratively with compassion, non-judgement, cultural awareness and empowerment. I work best with individuals and couples who lead with openness, curiosity and a true desire for personal growth. I feel most effective at working with those who have experienced infidelity/relationship ruptures, sexual assault/trauma, emotional stuck points related to sexuality and relationship.
(425) 386-5067 View (425) 386-5067
Photo of Natalie V Roche, MA, LMHC
Natalie V Roche
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Somerset, Bellevue, WA 98006
Waitlist for new clients
Does your life or path look very different than those around you? Do you have a hard time saying "no" to others & feeling guilty or resentful in your relationships? If this sounds like you; I can help. I am honored to do this work & it is a privilege to work alongside clients as you learn to accept your own path, set healthy boundaries with those around you, and learn how to build a life of peace & authenticity.
Does your life or path look very different than those around you? Do you have a hard time saying "no" to others & feeling guilty or resentful in your relationships? If this sounds like you; I can help. I am honored to do this work & it is a privilege to work alongside clients as you learn to accept your own path, set healthy boundaries with those around you, and learn how to build a life of peace & authenticity.
(206) 260-3313 View (206) 260-3313
Photo of Kristin Tebow, MS, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Tebow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! Summit Wellness PDX is mental health therapy with a mission to serve individuals experiencing mood disorders, attachment difficulties, difficult life experiences, anxiety, grief and loss, women's issues, LGBTQI, confusion, relationship difficulties, feeling stuck in life, and those looking for growth and development. What I find most gratifying in my work is seeing clients feeling empowered to improve their own lives until they no longer need my help. This is the place for people, like you, seeking strategies and skills that enable you to go beyond surviving the day-to-day, to discover yourself in a new way.
Welcome! Summit Wellness PDX is mental health therapy with a mission to serve individuals experiencing mood disorders, attachment difficulties, difficult life experiences, anxiety, grief and loss, women's issues, LGBTQI, confusion, relationship difficulties, feeling stuck in life, and those looking for growth and development. What I find most gratifying in my work is seeing clients feeling empowered to improve their own lives until they no longer need my help. This is the place for people, like you, seeking strategies and skills that enable you to go beyond surviving the day-to-day, to discover yourself in a new way.
(503) 461-7381 View (503) 461-7381
Photo of Beth Hirnle, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Beth Hirnle
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I have extensive experience in working with adolescents and adults. I often work with people who have experienced or currently are experiencing a wide variety of concerns. Some of these include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, transitions and other life stages, job dissatisfaction, low self esteem, histories of past abuse, divorce, parenting issues, ADD/ADHD, and issues connected with gender, sexuality or teenage pregnancy. I am supportive, direct and like to use humor. I often utilize a pragmatic approach in which you learn specific tools to deal with negative and stressful thoughts that often run through your mind.
I have extensive experience in working with adolescents and adults. I often work with people who have experienced or currently are experiencing a wide variety of concerns. Some of these include depression, anxiety, loss and grief, transitions and other life stages, job dissatisfaction, low self esteem, histories of past abuse, divorce, parenting issues, ADD/ADHD, and issues connected with gender, sexuality or teenage pregnancy. I am supportive, direct and like to use humor. I often utilize a pragmatic approach in which you learn specific tools to deal with negative and stressful thoughts that often run through your mind.
(425) 361-0985 View (425) 361-0985
Photo of Alison Draisin, PsyD,  LMHC, Counselor
Alison Draisin
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
** I am ONLY accepting new patients seeking cannabis or psychedelic psychotherapy.** I do have supervisees (MA level and LMHCA) that work under me with availability for talk therapy. I work with clients of all ages who are open minded and looking to explore alternative modalities of treatment for depression, anxiety, or trauma. I work in an integrative medical clinic where there is collaboration with medical (palliative care) doctors, naturopathic doctors, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Our clinic offers advanced cutting edge integrative medical care.
** I am ONLY accepting new patients seeking cannabis or psychedelic psychotherapy.** I do have supervisees (MA level and LMHCA) that work under me with availability for talk therapy. I work with clients of all ages who are open minded and looking to explore alternative modalities of treatment for depression, anxiety, or trauma. I work in an integrative medical clinic where there is collaboration with medical (palliative care) doctors, naturopathic doctors, and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Our clinic offers advanced cutting edge integrative medical care.
(206) 420-1321 View (206) 420-1321
Photo of Tyler McFarland, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Tyler McFarland
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you are struggling with anxiety or having behavioral problems I am here to help. My goal as a therapist is to provide my clients with opportunities for learning and growth in order to help them discover at their core the things that are holding them back from truly becoming who they want to be. Please fill out the form on my website under the Contact Me page.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety or having behavioral problems I am here to help. My goal as a therapist is to provide my clients with opportunities for learning and growth in order to help them discover at their core the things that are holding them back from truly becoming who they want to be. Please fill out the form on my website under the Contact Me page.
Photo of Jessica B. Misner, Psy D, ABPP, Psychologist
Jessica B. Misner
Psychologist, Psy D, ABPP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you think non-stop about negative things that could happen? Do you feel like you have low energy, feel sad, or lethargic? Do you struggle to relate to others interpersonally, perhaps having difficulties making friends or developing romantic interests? Do you struggle with setting boundaries with others and are are a people pleaser? These are just a few of the many ways that I may be able to help you. My specialties include: attachment issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships issues, life transitions. I offer individual psychotherapy for adults.
Do you think non-stop about negative things that could happen? Do you feel like you have low energy, feel sad, or lethargic? Do you struggle to relate to others interpersonally, perhaps having difficulties making friends or developing romantic interests? Do you struggle with setting boundaries with others and are are a people pleaser? These are just a few of the many ways that I may be able to help you. My specialties include: attachment issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships issues, life transitions. I offer individual psychotherapy for adults.
(425) 620-4030 View (425) 620-4030
Photo of Richard Sirota Rational Treatment Services, LICSW, CDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard Sirota Rational Treatment Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CDP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Richard is a mental health and chemical dependency therapist who uses state of the art treatment modalities in a safe, non-judgmental, confidential environment. My highly effective treatment is designed for individuals with a variety of problems. I provide individual counseling and a variety of treatment groups. I use a cognitive behavioral approach (CBT) designed to empower you. I help individuals and couples change patterns that have been repeating for much of their lives. Everyone can change. To do so effectively, you need the right motivation combined with the tools and skills learned in a positive, non-critical environment.
Richard is a mental health and chemical dependency therapist who uses state of the art treatment modalities in a safe, non-judgmental, confidential environment. My highly effective treatment is designed for individuals with a variety of problems. I provide individual counseling and a variety of treatment groups. I use a cognitive behavioral approach (CBT) designed to empower you. I help individuals and couples change patterns that have been repeating for much of their lives. Everyone can change. To do so effectively, you need the right motivation combined with the tools and skills learned in a positive, non-critical environment.
(206) 922-4330 View (206) 922-4330

See more therapy options for Somerset, Bellevue

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Somerset, Bellevue, WA

100+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Somerset, Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
70% Trauma and PTSD
65% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Premera Blue Cross
58% Regence
51% Aetna

How Therapists in Somerset, Bellevue, WA see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Somerset, Bellevue?

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.