Therapists in Maple Valley, WA

Photo of Emma Kowalinski, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDFT, PMH-C
Emma Kowalinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDFT, PMH-C
Online Only
Pregnancy and Parenthood changes, well... everything? Picture sipping a warm and comforting beverage while navigating, analyzing and being curious about the twists and turns of this transformative journey. In my approach we use our time intuitively, choosing curiosity over criticism. Let's explore the bumps, the messy moments, and embrace mistakes as stepping stones for growth and change. In our time together, we'll find laughter and tears amid sleepless nights, making therapy a space to celebrate the wild, beautiful ride of becoming a parent.
Pregnancy and Parenthood changes, well... everything? Picture sipping a warm and comforting beverage while navigating, analyzing and being curious about the twists and turns of this transformative journey. In my approach we use our time intuitively, choosing curiosity over criticism. Let's explore the bumps, the messy moments, and embrace mistakes as stepping stones for growth and change. In our time together, we'll find laughter and tears amid sleepless nights, making therapy a space to celebrate the wild, beautiful ride of becoming a parent.
(425) 428-6477 View (425) 428-6477
Photo of Joanie Hansen, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Joanie Hansen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Maple Valley, WA 98038
First and foremost, what I do is about YOU! The fact that you are reading this says amazing things about the measurable quality of wholeness & excellence you have determined to possess; life should be deeply satisfying & fulfilling. No one has ever lived a life, where at some point, we look around & find we are somewhere we did not intend to be. Therapy is THE gift that allows you to tap into the resources that you already possess, which need to reconnect with your authentic self - where all of your inner values, intentions, and dreams are aligned & moving you towards the life you deserve to live. I welcome all people.
First and foremost, what I do is about YOU! The fact that you are reading this says amazing things about the measurable quality of wholeness & excellence you have determined to possess; life should be deeply satisfying & fulfilling. No one has ever lived a life, where at some point, we look around & find we are somewhere we did not intend to be. Therapy is THE gift that allows you to tap into the resources that you already possess, which need to reconnect with your authentic self - where all of your inner values, intentions, and dreams are aligned & moving you towards the life you deserve to live. I welcome all people.
(253) 444-4289 View (253) 444-4289
Photo of Kyle G. Erickson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Kyle G. Erickson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Maple Valley, WA 98038
With 25 years of experience, I help adults, couples, families, and high school-aged teens navigate life’s challenges. I offer both traditional ongoing therapy and Single-Session Therapy (sometimes one focused visit is all you need). My style is friendly, collaborative and practical. I believe humor is healing and make room for it in my work. I love to create a space where people feel heard, understood, and supported. Therapy with me is a partnership: I’m engaged, curious, and invested in your goals. To learn more about how I work, please visit my website.
With 25 years of experience, I help adults, couples, families, and high school-aged teens navigate life’s challenges. I offer both traditional ongoing therapy and Single-Session Therapy (sometimes one focused visit is all you need). My style is friendly, collaborative and practical. I believe humor is healing and make room for it in my work. I love to create a space where people feel heard, understood, and supported. Therapy with me is a partnership: I’m engaged, curious, and invested in your goals. To learn more about how I work, please visit my website.
(425) 405-6571 View (425) 405-6571
Photo of Jillian Kate Hove - Wild Flora Therapy, Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
Wild Flora Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling like nobody really gets you? Maybe everything appears okay on the outside but inside you are struggling. It feels exhausting to look like everything is okay all the time and you're now saying or doing things you later regret. Maybe issues in your past are coming to the surface and affecting your life today. Or perhaps you're struggling in school and feel like drama follows you. You might even feel like you can't remember when you didn't feel this way. One thing is for sure, you’re ready to feel better. Most of all, you're ready to finally feel understood, heal issues of your past, and meet your goals.
Do you find yourself feeling like nobody really gets you? Maybe everything appears okay on the outside but inside you are struggling. It feels exhausting to look like everything is okay all the time and you're now saying or doing things you later regret. Maybe issues in your past are coming to the surface and affecting your life today. Or perhaps you're struggling in school and feel like drama follows you. You might even feel like you can't remember when you didn't feel this way. One thing is for sure, you’re ready to feel better. Most of all, you're ready to finally feel understood, heal issues of your past, and meet your goals.
(425) 385-0493 View (425) 385-0493
Photo of Ashley Sweigart, Counselor, MS, LMHC, ATR
Ashley Sweigart
Counselor, MS, LMHC, ATR
2 Endorsed
Maple Valley, WA 98038
I am an Art Psychotherapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State. I am eclectic in my approach to therapy, as one approach does not fit all, and I employ methods from several modalities. In broad terms, my therapeutic stance is holistic and person-centered. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a powerful agent of change and, therefore, I value building trust and a strong rapport with my clients. Additionally, as an art therapist, I believe engagement in art making is life-enhancing and that bringing the creative process into therapy facilitates healing and growth.
I am an Art Psychotherapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State. I am eclectic in my approach to therapy, as one approach does not fit all, and I employ methods from several modalities. In broad terms, my therapeutic stance is holistic and person-centered. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a powerful agent of change and, therefore, I value building trust and a strong rapport with my clients. Additionally, as an art therapist, I believe engagement in art making is life-enhancing and that bringing the creative process into therapy facilitates healing and growth.
(425) 243-9879 View (425) 243-9879
Photo of Misty D. Torres - Torres Mental Health Services, PLLC, Counselor, Psy D, LMHCA, MHP
Torres Mental Health Services, PLLC
Counselor, Psy D, LMHCA, MHP
Maple Valley, WA 98038
Whether working on self-care, or working through life's challenges, investing time and effort into your mental health is important to overall health. I am here to help. I view clients as the expert on their lives, and our work together is a partnership combining your expertise on your life, with my clinical experience and training. Every client is unique, and I use an integrative approach tailored to your learning style, the presenting issue, and your goals in counseling. I consciously work to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and empathetic environment in which my clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.
Whether working on self-care, or working through life's challenges, investing time and effort into your mental health is important to overall health. I am here to help. I view clients as the expert on their lives, and our work together is a partnership combining your expertise on your life, with my clinical experience and training. Every client is unique, and I use an integrative approach tailored to your learning style, the presenting issue, and your goals in counseling. I consciously work to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and empathetic environment in which my clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.
(425) 215-1758 View (425) 215-1758
Photo of Sarah Briggs, Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Sarah Briggs
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am ready to work with you no matter where you are on your life path or your readiness to change. I would especially love to work with you if you have ever felt marginalized, unacceptable, unlovable, stuck, traumatized, or doomed because of your past. I have 10+ years of experience helping clients like you to find meaningful change. Most of my experience has been meeting with clients in person, but right now I am only able to offer telehealth sessions. Clients and I have found that these virtual sessions can be just as effective as in-person meetings. Plus, they are convenient! Meet in your home, car, or while taking a walk!
I am ready to work with you no matter where you are on your life path or your readiness to change. I would especially love to work with you if you have ever felt marginalized, unacceptable, unlovable, stuck, traumatized, or doomed because of your past. I have 10+ years of experience helping clients like you to find meaningful change. Most of my experience has been meeting with clients in person, but right now I am only able to offer telehealth sessions. Clients and I have found that these virtual sessions can be just as effective as in-person meetings. Plus, they are convenient! Meet in your home, car, or while taking a walk!
(425) 906-1961 View (425) 906-1961
Photo of Brandy Oto, Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP
Brandy Oto
Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP
1 Endorsed
Maple Valley, WA 98038
I specialize in working with individuals and couples navigating betrayal and affairs, addiction and substance use, trauma, major life transitions, new parenting, blended families, and ongoing patterns of conflict or emotional disconnection. Many couples I work with feel overwhelmed, discouraged, and unsure if their relationship can be repaired. I help slow the chaos, clarify what is happening, and create a grounded path forward. I work best with couples who are willing to be honest about where they are and actively engage in the process of rebuilding.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples navigating betrayal and affairs, addiction and substance use, trauma, major life transitions, new parenting, blended families, and ongoing patterns of conflict or emotional disconnection. Many couples I work with feel overwhelmed, discouraged, and unsure if their relationship can be repaired. I help slow the chaos, clarify what is happening, and create a grounded path forward. I work best with couples who are willing to be honest about where they are and actively engage in the process of rebuilding.
(425) 906-1774 View (425) 906-1774
Photo of Kara Hill, Counselor, NCC, MA, MBA, LMHCA
Kara Hill
Counselor, NCC, MA, MBA, LMHCA
Online Only
We can face any challenge together! There is no problem too large, too complex, or too overwhelming that we can't face together. Sometimes you just need a safe, trusted, and confidential space to sort it all out. That is exactly what I strive to provide for you. I work with individuals and couples seeking healing, understanding, and growth in their lives. You deserve the time and space to find clarity, support, and confidence. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, existential questions, grief, loss, faith issues, social anxiety, body image concerns, eating disorders, infertility, and many other issues.
We can face any challenge together! There is no problem too large, too complex, or too overwhelming that we can't face together. Sometimes you just need a safe, trusted, and confidential space to sort it all out. That is exactly what I strive to provide for you. I work with individuals and couples seeking healing, understanding, and growth in their lives. You deserve the time and space to find clarity, support, and confidence. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, existential questions, grief, loss, faith issues, social anxiety, body image concerns, eating disorders, infertility, and many other issues.
(425) 243-4405 View (425) 243-4405
Photo of James Nguyen, Counselor, LMHC, MA, MAPC, MDiv, MBA
James Nguyen
Counselor, LMHC, MA, MAPC, MDiv, MBA
Maple Valley, WA 98038
I believe that counseling is a practice of instilling, promoting, and maintaining hope and restoring the wounded person to wholeness. What inspired me to go into this field is a quote by Russell A. Barkley, “The children who need love the most, will always ask for it in the most unloving ways.” To some degree, this can be said about adults as well, so I dedicate what I do to helping individuals, no matter how they ask.
I believe that counseling is a practice of instilling, promoting, and maintaining hope and restoring the wounded person to wholeness. What inspired me to go into this field is a quote by Russell A. Barkley, “The children who need love the most, will always ask for it in the most unloving ways.” To some degree, this can be said about adults as well, so I dedicate what I do to helping individuals, no matter how they ask.
(360) 854-3894 View (360) 854-3894
Photo of Lorenza I Munoz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Lorenza I Munoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Maple Valley, WA 98038
Waitlist for new clients
Maybe you have been told you are “too sensitive,” “too emotional,” too much, or hard to understand. Maybe you learned to shrink yourself to keep peace, meet expectations, or survive. Therapy can be a place to stop apologizing for how deeply you feel and start understanding what your mind, body, and story are asking for. I work with adolescents, adults, and caregivers navigating ADHD, anxiety, childhood trauma, identity exploration, emotional regulation, and family stress, especially those learning how neurodivergence, identity, or old survival patterns shape daily life.
Maybe you have been told you are “too sensitive,” “too emotional,” too much, or hard to understand. Maybe you learned to shrink yourself to keep peace, meet expectations, or survive. Therapy can be a place to stop apologizing for how deeply you feel and start understanding what your mind, body, and story are asking for. I work with adolescents, adults, and caregivers navigating ADHD, anxiety, childhood trauma, identity exploration, emotional regulation, and family stress, especially those learning how neurodivergence, identity, or old survival patterns shape daily life.
(360) 215-3401 View (360) 215-3401
Photo of Mark E Fisher, Counselor, LMHC
Mark E Fisher
Counselor, LMHC
Maple Valley, WA 98038
My ideal client is a couple with relationship challenges and I use some of the Gottman material. I also thrive while working with women or men facing depression or anxiety in addition to those who are transitioning to the golden years of life.
My ideal client is a couple with relationship challenges and I use some of the Gottman material. I also thrive while working with women or men facing depression or anxiety in addition to those who are transitioning to the golden years of life.
(425) 620-2471 View (425) 620-2471
Photo of Erin Schober, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erin Schober
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing grief, navigating major life transitions, processing trauma, seeking caregiver support, or coming to terms with chronic or life-limiting illnesses. I've dedicated my practice to supporting adults who seek to heal, grow, and reclaim their lives after experiencing significant challenges. I spent my early career advocating for survivors of sexual assault and violent crime in the courts. Since graduating with my MSW, I spent 5 years serving as a hospital social worker - most recently in Oncology, Palliative Care and Hospice, and I currently work full time as a Therapist.
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing grief, navigating major life transitions, processing trauma, seeking caregiver support, or coming to terms with chronic or life-limiting illnesses. I've dedicated my practice to supporting adults who seek to heal, grow, and reclaim their lives after experiencing significant challenges. I spent my early career advocating for survivors of sexual assault and violent crime in the courts. Since graduating with my MSW, I spent 5 years serving as a hospital social worker - most recently in Oncology, Palliative Care and Hospice, and I currently work full time as a Therapist.
(206) 736-0743 View (206) 736-0743
Photo of Sarah Ramstad, Counselor, MA, LMHC, PLLC
Sarah Ramstad
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PLLC
Maple Valley, WA 98038
Often the struggles and barriers we face are opportunities to envision what we really want for our lives. I am here as a child & family therapist to join with you and your family where you are at in the moment, and to walk beside you towards where you hope to be. TOGETHER we will get to the heart of what really matters. I believe that each individual, from child to adult, has unique strengths to build upon. My approach establishes the foundation of treatment on these innate strengths to overcome challenges, as to move towards increased life satisfaction & healthy relationships.
Often the struggles and barriers we face are opportunities to envision what we really want for our lives. I am here as a child & family therapist to join with you and your family where you are at in the moment, and to walk beside you towards where you hope to be. TOGETHER we will get to the heart of what really matters. I believe that each individual, from child to adult, has unique strengths to build upon. My approach establishes the foundation of treatment on these innate strengths to overcome challenges, as to move towards increased life satisfaction & healthy relationships.
(425) 654-3704 View (425) 654-3704
Photo of Samantha Halfen, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Samantha Halfen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Maple Valley, WA 98038
On the outside, things look fine, but inside something does not feel right. You find yourself overthinking, second guessing, or apologizing more than you want to. Relationships can feel confusing or one sided, and even when you try to set boundaries, it is hard to trust yourself. Many of the women I work with feel unseen or alone in ways that are hard to explain. Often, these patterns are rooted in earlier experiences where their needs or voice were not fully supported.
On the outside, things look fine, but inside something does not feel right. You find yourself overthinking, second guessing, or apologizing more than you want to. Relationships can feel confusing or one sided, and even when you try to set boundaries, it is hard to trust yourself. Many of the women I work with feel unseen or alone in ways that are hard to explain. Often, these patterns are rooted in earlier experiences where their needs or voice were not fully supported.
(425) 382-7182 View (425) 382-7182
Photo of Allana Camba - Meaning and Presence (MAP) Therapy PLLC, Counselor, MAED, LMHCA, LPC, NCC
Meaning and Presence (MAP) Therapy PLLC
Counselor, MAED, LMHCA, LPC, NCC
Online Only
Welcome! I’m so glad to connect. Many challenges stem not only from biology but also from relationships, systemic barriers, and lack of access to resources. As you navigate life’s complexities, my role is to support your empowerment and guide you toward the growth and positive change you seek. Whether you’re carrying the weight of trauma, facing anxiety or depression, struggling with substance use, grieving a loss, or simply hoping to deepen your self-understanding, I am here to support you—with hope, compassion, and a commitment to your wellbeing.
Welcome! I’m so glad to connect. Many challenges stem not only from biology but also from relationships, systemic barriers, and lack of access to resources. As you navigate life’s complexities, my role is to support your empowerment and guide you toward the growth and positive change you seek. Whether you’re carrying the weight of trauma, facing anxiety or depression, struggling with substance use, grieving a loss, or simply hoping to deepen your self-understanding, I am here to support you—with hope, compassion, and a commitment to your wellbeing.
(206) 960-6337 View (206) 960-6337
Photo of Deanna Waters, Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, TTS
Deanna Waters
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, TTS
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Come as you are. Let’s begin there. Maybe life feels too loud. Maybe something shifted - slowly or suddenly - and now nothing seems to fit quite right. Or maybe you’ve been stuck in a loop for so long that even hope feels out of reach. Here, we slow things down. Together, we make room for the truth of what hurts and the quiet pull of what matters. We’ll pay close attention to the story that brought you here - past, present, and everything in between - including how your relationships, patterns, and context shape what you carry. This work isn’t about rushing to fix you. It’s about returning to yourself, with care.
Come as you are. Let’s begin there. Maybe life feels too loud. Maybe something shifted - slowly or suddenly - and now nothing seems to fit quite right. Or maybe you’ve been stuck in a loop for so long that even hope feels out of reach. Here, we slow things down. Together, we make room for the truth of what hurts and the quiet pull of what matters. We’ll pay close attention to the story that brought you here - past, present, and everything in between - including how your relationships, patterns, and context shape what you carry. This work isn’t about rushing to fix you. It’s about returning to yourself, with care.
(425) 671-0489 View (425) 671-0489
Photo of Erin Schober, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Erin Schober
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing grief, navigating major life transitions, processing current or past trauma, seeking caregiver support, or coming to terms with chronic or life-limiting illnesses. I've dedicated my practice to supporting adults who seek to heal, grow, and reclaim their lives after experiencing significant challenges.
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing grief, navigating major life transitions, processing current or past trauma, seeking caregiver support, or coming to terms with chronic or life-limiting illnesses. I've dedicated my practice to supporting adults who seek to heal, grow, and reclaim their lives after experiencing significant challenges.
(509) 509-1808 View (509) 509-1808
Photo of Anna Sweet, Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Anna Sweet
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Maple Valley, WA 98038
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with teens on issues related to anxiety, peer/family conflict, social skills, etc.; and to best help them, I encourage working alongside their parents/caregivers to ensure support outside the office. I also enjoy counseling adults of all ages who struggle with difficult life changes and relationship issues. In our work together, I hope to guide clients as they form new insights, change unhelpful behaviors, and strengthen their relationships.
I enjoy working with teens on issues related to anxiety, peer/family conflict, social skills, etc.; and to best help them, I encourage working alongside their parents/caregivers to ensure support outside the office. I also enjoy counseling adults of all ages who struggle with difficult life changes and relationship issues. In our work together, I hope to guide clients as they form new insights, change unhelpful behaviors, and strengthen their relationships.
(425) 441-3638 View (425) 441-3638
Photo of Marissa Joy Pennoyer, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Marissa Joy Pennoyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I work with families, couples, and individuals needing support to be the best version of themselves. My clients often come to me with issues surrounding hopelessness and struggling with life transitions. I provide a safe, positive, and supportive place to process these issues and feelings without judgement. I hope to work collaboratively with you to reach attainable goals, whether it be individually or for your family.
I work with families, couples, and individuals needing support to be the best version of themselves. My clients often come to me with issues surrounding hopelessness and struggling with life transitions. I provide a safe, positive, and supportive place to process these issues and feelings without judgement. I hope to work collaboratively with you to reach attainable goals, whether it be individually or for your family.
(425) 310-4075 View (425) 310-4075

See more therapy options for Maple Valley

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Maple Valley, WA

80+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Maple Valley, WA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
94% Social Anxiety
94% Health Anxiety
94% Driving Anxiety
88% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
79% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Premera Blue Cross
73% Regence
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Maple Valley, WA see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
14% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Maple Valley?

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.