Therapists in Port Townsend, WA

Photo of Jo Hadlock-King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Jo Hadlock-King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
For 30+ years I have worked with adults seeking relief from depression, anxiety, relationship strains, loss, addiction. For all my clients, healing is integral: we attend to troubling emotions, patterns of thinking, body sensations and spirit. My study of biodynamic craniosacral therapy, a gentle touch therapy, confirmed for me that within each of us there is inherent health. We learn to listen and align with this health, building on already existing resources, creating a new trusting connection and discovering new skills.
For 30+ years I have worked with adults seeking relief from depression, anxiety, relationship strains, loss, addiction. For all my clients, healing is integral: we attend to troubling emotions, patterns of thinking, body sensations and spirit. My study of biodynamic craniosacral therapy, a gentle touch therapy, confirmed for me that within each of us there is inherent health. We learn to listen and align with this health, building on already existing resources, creating a new trusting connection and discovering new skills.
(425) 610-8936 View (425) 610-8936
Photo of Craig Isenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Craig Isenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address issues ranging from relational conflict to the broad spectrum of mental health. Through an eclectic approach utilizing cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and family systems-based modalities, I explore current problems within the social, cultural, and environmental context of life experiences and the impact these experiences have on both physical and mental health. I often approach the presenting issue as a symptom and endeavor to assist clients in developing an understanding of the function that problem serves and how to achieve that same function with more desired outcomes.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address issues ranging from relational conflict to the broad spectrum of mental health. Through an eclectic approach utilizing cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and family systems-based modalities, I explore current problems within the social, cultural, and environmental context of life experiences and the impact these experiences have on both physical and mental health. I often approach the presenting issue as a symptom and endeavor to assist clients in developing an understanding of the function that problem serves and how to achieve that same function with more desired outcomes.
(360) 301-7066 View (360) 301-7066
Photo of Teresa Lee Haeg - Inner Growth Counseling, Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFTA, CDP
Inner Growth Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFTA, CDP
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
"Given that you are reading this, you may be experiencing stress and feeling anxious. As you take this courageous step toward solving a problem, know that working with a therapist can be collaborative, creative, and deeply meaningful. It can help with acute problems or long-standing struggles. I am now offering Saturday sessions. Please call or text my cell (503) 910-6571 for appointments or questions. I look forward to hearing from you. Good thoughts, Teresa
"Given that you are reading this, you may be experiencing stress and feeling anxious. As you take this courageous step toward solving a problem, know that working with a therapist can be collaborative, creative, and deeply meaningful. It can help with acute problems or long-standing struggles. I am now offering Saturday sessions. Please call or text my cell (503) 910-6571 for appointments or questions. I look forward to hearing from you. Good thoughts, Teresa
(509) 769-3793 View (509) 769-3793
Photo of Christine Nock, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Christine Nock
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Waitlist for new clients
You can recover your authentic self! My compassionate and accepting approach uses a variety of simple and effective techniques to help clients understand themselves, make clear and conscious choices, learn to listen to their own inner wisdom, set healthy boundaries, fulfill their own deepest needs, and become their most authentic selves.
You can recover your authentic self! My compassionate and accepting approach uses a variety of simple and effective techniques to help clients understand themselves, make clear and conscious choices, learn to listen to their own inner wisdom, set healthy boundaries, fulfill their own deepest needs, and become their most authentic selves.
(360) 821-1407 View (360) 821-1407
Photo of Ali Fulton, Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, RYT
Ali Fulton
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, RYT
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I believe that each person has within them a source for healing that once the body and mind can connect, can be found. Using an integrative approach with multiple theories of psychotherapy, wilderness and grounding, creates a relationship with one’s own body, opening the opportunity for acceptance in the present moment without judgment. Holding a warm, open and kind space to meet ourselves and accept where we are on our path is a goal for my clients and myself.
I believe that each person has within them a source for healing that once the body and mind can connect, can be found. Using an integrative approach with multiple theories of psychotherapy, wilderness and grounding, creates a relationship with one’s own body, opening the opportunity for acceptance in the present moment without judgment. Holding a warm, open and kind space to meet ourselves and accept where we are on our path is a goal for my clients and myself.
(360) 217-0679 View (360) 217-0679
Photo of Mark Saran, Counselor, LMHC
Mark Saran
Counselor, LMHC
Port Townsend, WA 98368
My practice is currently full. I have worked intensively with adolescents, adults, and their families for over 30 years. I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, relationship, parenting issues, women's empowerment, and challenges including depression and anxiety. Specific foci/areas of interest include family dynamics, adolescent rebellion, strategies for success in school, ADD diagnosis and treatment plans and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I spent two decades working with pregnant and parenting teens, and teaching childbirth education at my local hospital.
My practice is currently full. I have worked intensively with adolescents, adults, and their families for over 30 years. I work with individuals and couples to address life transitions, relationship, parenting issues, women's empowerment, and challenges including depression and anxiety. Specific foci/areas of interest include family dynamics, adolescent rebellion, strategies for success in school, ADD diagnosis and treatment plans and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I spent two decades working with pregnant and parenting teens, and teaching childbirth education at my local hospital.
(360) 382-4287 View (360) 382-4287
Photo of Patricia Bolen, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Patricia Bolen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you facing a life transition, healing from trauma, or feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? I’m here to help you find clarity, strength, and balance during times of change. I provide compassionate, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive care in a safe, supportive space. Using evidence-based techniques such as talk therapy, EMDR, CBT, and mindfulness, we’ll tailor our work to fit your unique needs. I also support older adults managing stress, loss, and shifting roles. Together, we’ll focus on healing, resilience, and personal growth.
Are you facing a life transition, healing from trauma, or feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? I’m here to help you find clarity, strength, and balance during times of change. I provide compassionate, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive care in a safe, supportive space. Using evidence-based techniques such as talk therapy, EMDR, CBT, and mindfulness, we’ll tailor our work to fit your unique needs. I also support older adults managing stress, loss, and shifting roles. Together, we’ll focus on healing, resilience, and personal growth.
(360) 301-7242 View (360) 301-7242
Photo of Marisa Hendrickson, Counselor, LMHC
Marisa Hendrickson
Counselor, LMHC
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Do you feel unworthy, unrecognized, and unloved? Maybe you feel tired or resentful. A lot of time is spent worrying about what others thinks of you. You want to learn how to think for yourself and about yourself. A difficult life has distorted your perception of healthy relationships and self-esteem. You're not sure what sparks joy anymore, and struggle to say no to things even if you don't want to do them. It is time for you to turn inwards and learn what makes you happy. My passion is getting you back on track to begin living a more fulfilled, purposeful life.
Do you feel unworthy, unrecognized, and unloved? Maybe you feel tired or resentful. A lot of time is spent worrying about what others thinks of you. You want to learn how to think for yourself and about yourself. A difficult life has distorted your perception of healthy relationships and self-esteem. You're not sure what sparks joy anymore, and struggle to say no to things even if you don't want to do them. It is time for you to turn inwards and learn what makes you happy. My passion is getting you back on track to begin living a more fulfilled, purposeful life.
(360) 845-1265 View (360) 845-1265
Photo of Josh Kraetsch, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Josh Kraetsch
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
We often learn ways of dealing with problems that can create more trouble than we intended. Maybe you become habitually hard on yourself or those around you. Maybe you feel stuck in indecision or backed into a corner by life's demands. Maybe you have found ways to soothe yourself that aren't serving you anymore. Or you might be facing the reality of one of life's painful truths such as loss, illness or an accident that has altered your course, leaving you unsure how to face what undeniably is, or how to move forward.
We often learn ways of dealing with problems that can create more trouble than we intended. Maybe you become habitually hard on yourself or those around you. Maybe you feel stuck in indecision or backed into a corner by life's demands. Maybe you have found ways to soothe yourself that aren't serving you anymore. Or you might be facing the reality of one of life's painful truths such as loss, illness or an accident that has altered your course, leaving you unsure how to face what undeniably is, or how to move forward.
(360) 732-8672 View (360) 732-8672
Photo of Andrea Knutson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Andrea Knutson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
(360) 585-4790 View (360) 585-4790
Photo of Kelley Swanstrom, Counselor, MAC, LMHC
Kelley Swanstrom
Counselor, MAC, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Limited openings now available: I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State with over 20 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, life transitions, burnout, and emotional overwhelm. My integrative approach is grounded in respect for the whole person—mind, body, spirit, and emotions—and is tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. I provide a calm, collaborative space where you can begin to move through what’s been keeping you stuck and reconnect with a life that feels meaningful and whole.
Limited openings now available: I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State with over 20 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, life transitions, burnout, and emotional overwhelm. My integrative approach is grounded in respect for the whole person—mind, body, spirit, and emotions—and is tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. I provide a calm, collaborative space where you can begin to move through what’s been keeping you stuck and reconnect with a life that feels meaningful and whole.
(360) 302-4969 View (360) 302-4969
Photo of Laila Josephine Ayyoub, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Laila Josephine Ayyoub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Not accepting new clients
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
All people are one of a kind, but here's where we're all alike: All of us come from a personal history and context: A past that got us through to where we are now. And "Right Now" is where all the choices and opportunities are. Some things we may want to change, other things we may choose to accept as they are. Therapy can be helpful in understanding yourself well enough to know which is which. And therapy can offer some things you may need to go forward with your choices: Hope, perspective and someone who believes in you while you practice believing in yourself.
(458) 207-2062 View (458) 207-2062
Photo of Kenneth R Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SAP
Kenneth R Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SAP
Online Only
As a therapist, I believe in being genuine, respectful and empathetic. For a therapeutic relationship to develop, clients need to feel seen and understood. I strive to help my clients understand their own emotions, cope with difficult feelings, improve their relationships with themselves and the people they care about. Years ago, as a beginning therapist, I was influenced by research showing that the critical therapeutic element in psychotherapy, regardless of the discipline, was the relationship between the therapist and the client. Contemporary research confirms the importance of relationship in fostering therapeutic change.
As a therapist, I believe in being genuine, respectful and empathetic. For a therapeutic relationship to develop, clients need to feel seen and understood. I strive to help my clients understand their own emotions, cope with difficult feelings, improve their relationships with themselves and the people they care about. Years ago, as a beginning therapist, I was influenced by research showing that the critical therapeutic element in psychotherapy, regardless of the discipline, was the relationship between the therapist and the client. Contemporary research confirms the importance of relationship in fostering therapeutic change.
(360) 467-8103 View (360) 467-8103
Photo of Sheena Uritz, Counselor, LMHCA
Sheena Uritz
Counselor, LMHCA
Online Only
In our fast paced culture that emphasizes productivity over presence, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected. When we experience major transitions in life, encounter loss and grief, experience trauma, enter periods of questioning or struggle with addiction or mental health challenges we can find ourselves feeling untethered and lost. As a counselor, I provide a safe, accepting, respectful and supportive space for individuals and couples to recover a sense of deep connection in their lives. I utilize person-centered approaches that support healthy attachment and attunement.
In our fast paced culture that emphasizes productivity over presence, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected. When we experience major transitions in life, encounter loss and grief, experience trauma, enter periods of questioning or struggle with addiction or mental health challenges we can find ourselves feeling untethered and lost. As a counselor, I provide a safe, accepting, respectful and supportive space for individuals and couples to recover a sense of deep connection in their lives. I utilize person-centered approaches that support healthy attachment and attunement.
(360) 641-7469 View (360) 641-7469
Photo of Joseph Meyering Sr - Intervention NW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, AAS, SUDP
Intervention NW
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, AAS, SUDP
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I am writing to you with a profound passion for helping individuals embark on their transformative journey towards recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. My commitment to fostering positive change, coupled with a wealth of experience and a genuine empathy for those facing the challenges of addiction, makes me the ideal choice for your counseling needs. As a dedicated drug and alcohol counselor, my primary goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the complexities of your journey. I bring a comprehensive understanding of addiction, drawing from both academic knowledge and years of hands-on experience.
I am writing to you with a profound passion for helping individuals embark on their transformative journey towards recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. My commitment to fostering positive change, coupled with a wealth of experience and a genuine empathy for those facing the challenges of addiction, makes me the ideal choice for your counseling needs. As a dedicated drug and alcohol counselor, my primary goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore the complexities of your journey. I bring a comprehensive understanding of addiction, drawing from both academic knowledge and years of hands-on experience.
(360) 615-2412 View (360) 615-2412
Photo of Gabriel Wisswaesser, Counselor, LMHCA, MA, MS
Gabriel Wisswaesser
Counselor, LMHCA, MA, MS
3 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Gaining awareness of your pain is an important first step. You may have noticed relationship complications, a harsh inner critic, the pangs of anxiety, or the ripples of trauma. However challenging these dilemmas may be, your hope is for a more compassionate understanding of yourself and authentic connection to others. It’s your curiosity and desire to explore these aching dilemmas that will serve to enrich your therapeutic experience.
Gaining awareness of your pain is an important first step. You may have noticed relationship complications, a harsh inner critic, the pangs of anxiety, or the ripples of trauma. However challenging these dilemmas may be, your hope is for a more compassionate understanding of yourself and authentic connection to others. It’s your curiosity and desire to explore these aching dilemmas that will serve to enrich your therapeutic experience.
(253) 465-9874 View (253) 465-9874
Photo of Sara Smithson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Sara Smithson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
It's the most socially appropriate time in modern history to be a bit of a mess, but that doesn't make it easier for most of us. Being intelligent can actually make it harder to adapt to new things outside your frames of reference. Being empathetic can cause you to feel like you're constantly letting others & yourself down. Being unique or outside norms can leave you feeling lonely & questioning yourself. If you tend to hold & hide everything inside, or if you're someone who can't help but dump everything out all over the place, you may be experiencing miscommunication & judgment from others on top of everything.
It's the most socially appropriate time in modern history to be a bit of a mess, but that doesn't make it easier for most of us. Being intelligent can actually make it harder to adapt to new things outside your frames of reference. Being empathetic can cause you to feel like you're constantly letting others & yourself down. Being unique or outside norms can leave you feeling lonely & questioning yourself. If you tend to hold & hide everything inside, or if you're someone who can't help but dump everything out all over the place, you may be experiencing miscommunication & judgment from others on top of everything.
View
Photo of Matt Nienow - Listening Point Counseling, Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LMHCA, NCC
Listening Point Counseling
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LMHCA, NCC
2 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
I am especially passionate about supporting individuals experiencing challenges with ADHD, healthy masculinity, parenting, life transitions, grief, depression, and anxiety. I also work with couples who are committed to growing through challenges toward a higher level of healthy functioning and connection. If you are looking for a place to be known and understood, while also receiving helpful, practical tools for growth, I may be a good fit for you.
I am especially passionate about supporting individuals experiencing challenges with ADHD, healthy masculinity, parenting, life transitions, grief, depression, and anxiety. I also work with couples who are committed to growing through challenges toward a higher level of healthy functioning and connection. If you are looking for a place to be known and understood, while also receiving helpful, practical tools for growth, I may be a good fit for you.
(360) 323-6782 View (360) 323-6782
Photo of Victor H. Plucy, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victor H. Plucy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Victor H. Plucy has been in practice for 40years. During that time he has seen a wide range of clients and is skilled with anxiety, depression, transitions, marriage/ relationships; and his orientation addresses spiritual needs. He is passionate about helping clients live meaningful lives. Sub-specialties include sleep disorders, weight management and sports psychology. Victor relies heavily on building trust-filled counseling relationships in order to pursue the kinds of challenges that clients experience and combines that with client centered/solution-based psychotherapy.
Victor H. Plucy has been in practice for 40years. During that time he has seen a wide range of clients and is skilled with anxiety, depression, transitions, marriage/ relationships; and his orientation addresses spiritual needs. He is passionate about helping clients live meaningful lives. Sub-specialties include sleep disorders, weight management and sports psychology. Victor relies heavily on building trust-filled counseling relationships in order to pursue the kinds of challenges that clients experience and combines that with client centered/solution-based psychotherapy.
(360) 223-2514 View (360) 223-2514
Photo of Melissa S Layer, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Melissa S Layer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Can you imagine that it's possible to behold your journey as an opportunity for growth, healing and enriched connections? What would it be like to know that you have the capacity to hold both grief and gratitude? It could be that you have come to a cross-road or are standing on significant thresholds as you face transitions, challenges and decision-making. Maybe grief has cracked you open, or you are struggling with illness and long to discover meaning and balance once again. Perhaps you have an emergent sense that there is “something more” that you are yearning for?
Can you imagine that it's possible to behold your journey as an opportunity for growth, healing and enriched connections? What would it be like to know that you have the capacity to hold both grief and gratitude? It could be that you have come to a cross-road or are standing on significant thresholds as you face transitions, challenges and decision-making. Maybe grief has cracked you open, or you are struggling with illness and long to discover meaning and balance once again. Perhaps you have an emergent sense that there is “something more” that you are yearning for?
(360) 205-9995 View (360) 205-9995

See more therapy options for Port Townsend

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Port Townsend, WA

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Port Townsend, WA who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
92% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
82% Trauma and PTSD
76% Self Esteem
73% Grief
65% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Premera Blue Cross
68% Aetna
65% Regence

How Therapists in Port Townsend, WA see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
23% Male
5% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Port Townsend?

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.