Therapists in Baldwin, WI

Photo of Karis Johns Heartfelt Therapy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karis Johns Heartfelt Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Baldwin, WI 54002
We have all felt the rumblings and eruptions of change in our personal and collective world the last few years. It is in compassionate and dynamic response to these changes that I have evolved in my practice as well. It is my great privilege and honor to serve those who are yearning for a spiritual component to guide and illuminate their personal and relational therapeutic work. It is my clinical and personal perspective that when we embrace our own deeply personal divine gifts, the potential for living a life of meaning and purpose arises. As we embrace the change within ourselves, we become the change our world so needs now.
We have all felt the rumblings and eruptions of change in our personal and collective world the last few years. It is in compassionate and dynamic response to these changes that I have evolved in my practice as well. It is my great privilege and honor to serve those who are yearning for a spiritual component to guide and illuminate their personal and relational therapeutic work. It is my clinical and personal perspective that when we embrace our own deeply personal divine gifts, the potential for living a life of meaning and purpose arises. As we embrace the change within ourselves, we become the change our world so needs now.
(534) 400-1656 View (534) 400-1656
Photo of Rachel Christiansen, MS, LMFT-IT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rachel Christiansen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-IT
Verified Verified
Baldwin, WI 54002
I believe we can all benefit from therapy by gaining insight into ourselves, creating new patterns in our relationships or finding helpful ways to cope with life’s difficulties. I draw heavily on person-centered, trauma-informed and culturally sensitive therapy approaches. In my sessions, I use a blend of theories with particular focus on internal family systems and emotionally-focused therapy. I believe each person has the ability to find contentment, peace and meaning in life. I take a systemic approach to therapy and have an approach that strives to be inclusive, equitable and LGBTQ+ affirming.
I believe we can all benefit from therapy by gaining insight into ourselves, creating new patterns in our relationships or finding helpful ways to cope with life’s difficulties. I draw heavily on person-centered, trauma-informed and culturally sensitive therapy approaches. In my sessions, I use a blend of theories with particular focus on internal family systems and emotionally-focused therapy. I believe each person has the ability to find contentment, peace and meaning in life. I take a systemic approach to therapy and have an approach that strives to be inclusive, equitable and LGBTQ+ affirming.
(715) 804-1213 View (715) 804-1213
Photo of Hannah Schmidt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Schmidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Baldwin, WI 54002
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, or difficult relationships? Do you want to be more assertive, develop coping skills, improve your self-esteem, and foster healthy relationships? I am honored to help adults and children work through challenging life circumstances and mental health concerns, and you can expect me to listen carefully to your concerns and ask thoughtful questions. I balance empathy and compassion with feedback and skill-building so that you feel supported while working toward your goals. My Christian faith is at the heart of my work, and I can incorporate this perspective upon request.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, or difficult relationships? Do you want to be more assertive, develop coping skills, improve your self-esteem, and foster healthy relationships? I am honored to help adults and children work through challenging life circumstances and mental health concerns, and you can expect me to listen carefully to your concerns and ask thoughtful questions. I balance empathy and compassion with feedback and skill-building so that you feel supported while working toward your goals. My Christian faith is at the heart of my work, and I can incorporate this perspective upon request.
(715) 227-6654 View (715) 227-6654
Photo of Krista Demuth, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krista Demuth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baldwin, WI 54002
I enjoy working with adults, adolescents and children who have been affected by trauma, anxiety or depression. I am trained to help individuals who are living with grief/loss and am passionate about helping individuals live the life they hope for. I believe that each individual is unique and as such, works as a team with my clients to integrate the best approach to help clients reach their goals. I enjoy incorporating a holistic approach with clients.
I enjoy working with adults, adolescents and children who have been affected by trauma, anxiety or depression. I am trained to help individuals who are living with grief/loss and am passionate about helping individuals live the life they hope for. I believe that each individual is unique and as such, works as a team with my clients to integrate the best approach to help clients reach their goals. I enjoy incorporating a holistic approach with clients.
(715) 883-3469 View (715) 883-3469

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Patrick Westerham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick Westerham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roberts, WI 54023
Patrick Westerham is a Psychotherapist, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from St. Thomas and St. Catherine s Universities with a degree in Clinical Social Work, and is licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Patrick Westerham is a Psychotherapist, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from St. Thomas and St. Catherine s Universities with a degree in Clinical Social Work, and is licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
(715) 260-3073 View (715) 260-3073
Photo of Katie Robinson, MS, LPCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Roberts, WI 54023
Waitlist for new clients
When we struggle in life so many of us spend time blaming and shaming ourselves for “not doing better”. In society we've been taught to disconnect from our authentic selves and our bodies. Overtime this can cause us to feel lost, overwhelmed, and detached. As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist my focus is to help you reclaim those lost parts, integrate them, and regain self-trust through your own intuitive abilities. It may not feel like it now, but you are the wisest teacher in your life and I'm honored to assist you in believing so.
When we struggle in life so many of us spend time blaming and shaming ourselves for “not doing better”. In society we've been taught to disconnect from our authentic selves and our bodies. Overtime this can cause us to feel lost, overwhelmed, and detached. As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist my focus is to help you reclaim those lost parts, integrate them, and regain self-trust through your own intuitive abilities. It may not feel like it now, but you are the wisest teacher in your life and I'm honored to assist you in believing so.
(715) 354-0438 View (715) 354-0438
Photo of Angela Siler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Siler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roberts, WI 54023
Angela Siler is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been practicing since 2001. She graduated from Bethel Seminary in St. Paul with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is licensed in both Wisconsin and Minnesota. Angela believes in joining with clients and meeting them where they re at, knowing that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. Her therapeutic approach is mainly cognitive behavioral therapy, with an emphasis on mindfulness and awareness, encompassing mind, body and spirit.
Angela Siler is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been practicing since 2001. She graduated from Bethel Seminary in St. Paul with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is licensed in both Wisconsin and Minnesota. Angela believes in joining with clients and meeting them where they re at, knowing that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. Her therapeutic approach is mainly cognitive behavioral therapy, with an emphasis on mindfulness and awareness, encompassing mind, body and spirit.
(715) 553-5442 View (715) 553-5442
Photo of Bev Green, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bev Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roberts, WI 54023
Beverly Green is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 1990. Beverly has years of experience working with persons of all ages, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns including depression/mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Autism/Asperger's, grief, trauma, emotional/behavioral disorders of childhood and adolescents and life spectrum/life changing circumstances.
Beverly Green is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 1990. Beverly has years of experience working with persons of all ages, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns including depression/mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Autism/Asperger's, grief, trauma, emotional/behavioral disorders of childhood and adolescents and life spectrum/life changing circumstances.
(715) 519-8027 View (715) 519-8027
Photo of Lori Dore, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lori Dore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roberts, WI 54023
Lori Dore is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. She earned a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from University of Wisconsin-Stout with concentrations in eating disorders and alcohol and drug abuse. Lori also has a M. S in Management and Organizational Behavior from Silver Lake College. Lori has had a great amount of experience working with children and teenagers in the school settings.
Lori Dore is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2017. She earned a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from University of Wisconsin-Stout with concentrations in eating disorders and alcohol and drug abuse. Lori also has a M. S in Management and Organizational Behavior from Silver Lake College. Lori has had a great amount of experience working with children and teenagers in the school settings.
(715) 265-2709 View (715) 265-2709
Photo of Lee Folstad, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lee Folstad
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roberts, WI 54023
Lee Folstad is a licensed marriage and family therapist who has been practicing since 1989. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Stout in Menomonie, Wisconsin with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Lee Folstad is a licensed marriage and family therapist who has been practicing since 1989. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Stout in Menomonie, Wisconsin with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
(715) 230-3142 View (715) 230-3142

Online Therapists

Photo of Kayla Johnson, MS, LMHC, LPC
Kayla Johnson
MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hudson, WI 54016
I enjoy my work with clients who are navigating post-traumatic stress, family of origin pain, codependent attachment patterns, body image/disordered eating difficulties, religious trauma, anxiety, and depression. I affirm and value inclusivity in the therapy space for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals. I prioritize compassion, humor, and warmth in my work with clients. I believe each of us has an important story to tell and I work to create an empathic space for clients to begin the journey inward. My favorite part about being a therapist is accompanying clients as they realize their inherent value.
I enjoy my work with clients who are navigating post-traumatic stress, family of origin pain, codependent attachment patterns, body image/disordered eating difficulties, religious trauma, anxiety, and depression. I affirm and value inclusivity in the therapy space for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals. I prioritize compassion, humor, and warmth in my work with clients. I believe each of us has an important story to tell and I work to create an empathic space for clients to begin the journey inward. My favorite part about being a therapist is accompanying clients as they realize their inherent value.
(715) 800-8266 View (715) 800-8266
Photo of Gina R Young, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina R Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Relationships impact every aspect of our lives. It is especially problematic when the relationship with your spouse or partner is losing hope, joy, and satisfaction. Perhaps the distress is due to communication, betrayal, lack of care, expectations, or other relational issue. If you are experiencing disconnect and pain within your primary relationship, reach out. You do not have to walk through this type of distress alone.
Relationships impact every aspect of our lives. It is especially problematic when the relationship with your spouse or partner is losing hope, joy, and satisfaction. Perhaps the distress is due to communication, betrayal, lack of care, expectations, or other relational issue. If you are experiencing disconnect and pain within your primary relationship, reach out. You do not have to walk through this type of distress alone.
(715) 288-2859 View (715) 288-2859
Photo of Loary Viola Coates, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Loary Viola Coates
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Richmond, WI 54017  (Online Only)
I provide professional and clinical counseling. My goal is to promote the beauty of restoration and that healing and transformation are real possibilities. I believe that within a trusting relationship, I will be able to help my clients identify the pain areas that need the most work. As a licensed professional, I am committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. I draw upon my clinical training and formal education to address each unique need. I am licensed in the State of Florida and the State of Wisconsin.
I provide professional and clinical counseling. My goal is to promote the beauty of restoration and that healing and transformation are real possibilities. I believe that within a trusting relationship, I will be able to help my clients identify the pain areas that need the most work. As a licensed professional, I am committed to the highest standards of therapeutic practice and adhere to state ethical codes. I draw upon my clinical training and formal education to address each unique need. I am licensed in the State of Florida and the State of Wisconsin.
(715) 243-4753 View (715) 243-4753
Photo of Lana R.g. Buchner, MS, LPC, ADHD-, CCSP, Counselor
Lana R.g. Buchner
Counselor, MS, LPC, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
La Crosse, WI 54601
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be complicated, wrought with difficult challenges, unexpected events, and seemingly impossible choices. Everyone encounters unique experiences that shape who we are. Some of those experiences can be painful and cause us to question, doubt ourselves, or live with emotional pain. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and unload our burdens. I will help you to gain insight into what may be keeping you feeling like you cannot move forward and help you to find healing within. I will customize the best plan for you and together we will journey to discover your strengths and accessing your inner power. I am here for you.
Life can be complicated, wrought with difficult challenges, unexpected events, and seemingly impossible choices. Everyone encounters unique experiences that shape who we are. Some of those experiences can be painful and cause us to question, doubt ourselves, or live with emotional pain. Sometimes, we need someone to talk to and unload our burdens. I will help you to gain insight into what may be keeping you feeling like you cannot move forward and help you to find healing within. I will customize the best plan for you and together we will journey to discover your strengths and accessing your inner power. I am here for you.
(608) 470-6292 View (608) 470-6292
Photo of Kim Oglesby, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kim Oglesby
Pre-Licensed Professional, LADC
Verified Verified
New Richmond, WI 54017  (Online Only)
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance use, addictive behaviors, or hoarding? Does your environment reflect the chaos you feel inside? Sometimes people get stuck in patterns and behaviors we don't want, and we don't know how or can't move forward in spite of our best efforts. We often berate ourselves for our behaviors or for not being able to help someone we love. You might feel frustrated, defeated, scared or stuck. Maybe you don’t even know where to begin.
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance use, addictive behaviors, or hoarding? Does your environment reflect the chaos you feel inside? Sometimes people get stuck in patterns and behaviors we don't want, and we don't know how or can't move forward in spite of our best efforts. We often berate ourselves for our behaviors or for not being able to help someone we love. You might feel frustrated, defeated, scared or stuck. Maybe you don’t even know where to begin.
(715) 603-6743 View (715) 603-6743
Photo of Traci H Regis, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Traci H Regis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Eau Claire, WI 54701  (Online Only)
Are you easily overwhelmed by your surroundings and your nervous system’s responses? Do you find yourself avoiding certain situations and other people because you feel they drain your energy? It’s possible that you could have The Highly Sensitive Person/Sensory Processing Sensitivity trait (HSP/SPS). This trait is present in 15-20% of the population and explains how a sensitive nervous system can be difficult to manage if not given the right tools. I’m passionate about helping adults with the highly sensitive person trait, neurodiversity, and trauma develop tools to help them navigate this stressful world and find self-compassion.
Are you easily overwhelmed by your surroundings and your nervous system’s responses? Do you find yourself avoiding certain situations and other people because you feel they drain your energy? It’s possible that you could have The Highly Sensitive Person/Sensory Processing Sensitivity trait (HSP/SPS). This trait is present in 15-20% of the population and explains how a sensitive nervous system can be difficult to manage if not given the right tools. I’m passionate about helping adults with the highly sensitive person trait, neurodiversity, and trauma develop tools to help them navigate this stressful world and find self-compassion.
(715) 600-5813 View (715) 600-5813
Photo of Tammy Janke, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tammy Janke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
I have a passion for helping people re-experience themselves. Sometimes it is necessary to share your story with someone who can be objective and give you an alternative perspective. Life comes with many struggles, and there are times when managing them can seem difficult. We imagine our feelings as chains that hold us down. The energy we once had to live and love, no longer seems available. When we walk in shame and fear we give others our power and become powerless. We often fall into old patterns that don’t work for us any longer. We can feel stuck.
I have a passion for helping people re-experience themselves. Sometimes it is necessary to share your story with someone who can be objective and give you an alternative perspective. Life comes with many struggles, and there are times when managing them can seem difficult. We imagine our feelings as chains that hold us down. The energy we once had to live and love, no longer seems available. When we walk in shame and fear we give others our power and become powerless. We often fall into old patterns that don’t work for us any longer. We can feel stuck.
(715) 200-8270 View (715) 200-8270
Photo of Shelly Callais-Odell, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelly Callais-Odell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Master of Science in Professional Counseling in 2013. I bring both a responsive and proactive focus in my clinical practice. I have been honored to work with individuals and families from all walks of life, backgrounds and with a variety of presenting problems. Over the past 15 years of skills training with physically and mentally challenged individuals I have experienced the best of humanity. Using person centered, and strength-based approaches. I guide individuals and families in finding their inner strength and motivation to facilitate changes to create their best life. I specialize with parenting and child behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. I am here to help you evoke your inner strengths to resolve life’s challenges.
I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Master of Science in Professional Counseling in 2013. I bring both a responsive and proactive focus in my clinical practice. I have been honored to work with individuals and families from all walks of life, backgrounds and with a variety of presenting problems. Over the past 15 years of skills training with physically and mentally challenged individuals I have experienced the best of humanity. Using person centered, and strength-based approaches. I guide individuals and families in finding their inner strength and motivation to facilitate changes to create their best life. I specialize with parenting and child behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. I am here to help you evoke your inner strengths to resolve life’s challenges.
(534) 429-0950 View (534) 429-0950
Photo of Ashley Lemke, LPC, SAC-IT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Lemke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eau Claire, WI 54701  (Online Only)
I provide online counseling services to individuals struggling with life changes, relationships, family conflict, anxiety and any other stressors life can bring. If you are feeling overwhelmed due to current circumstances, COVID-19, past memories and experiences that keep resurfacing, maladaptive coping, low self-esteem, difficulty maintaining boundaries and/or are just feeling stuck, I am here to support you. I understand the difficulty of finding a compassionate therapist you feel connected to.
I provide online counseling services to individuals struggling with life changes, relationships, family conflict, anxiety and any other stressors life can bring. If you are feeling overwhelmed due to current circumstances, COVID-19, past memories and experiences that keep resurfacing, maladaptive coping, low self-esteem, difficulty maintaining boundaries and/or are just feeling stuck, I am here to support you. I understand the difficulty of finding a compassionate therapist you feel connected to.
(608) 200-3112 View (608) 200-3112
Photo of Meg Jelen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meg Jelen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Crosse, WI 54601
You have made it far in life, so I know you are already strong and skilled! Sometimes it can be difficult to see that part of ourselves; we might lose sight of our abilities or be blinded by the stressors we face. Or perhaps the skills and abilities that carried us through past challenges are not supporting us through our current circumstances. My philosophy of care is holistic combining evidence-based practices with a multi-dimensional approach to well-being. I work to support and empower clients in improving their quality of life and achieving their goals.
You have made it far in life, so I know you are already strong and skilled! Sometimes it can be difficult to see that part of ourselves; we might lose sight of our abilities or be blinded by the stressors we face. Or perhaps the skills and abilities that carried us through past challenges are not supporting us through our current circumstances. My philosophy of care is holistic combining evidence-based practices with a multi-dimensional approach to well-being. I work to support and empower clients in improving their quality of life and achieving their goals.
(608) 200-2641 View (608) 200-2641

See more therapy options for Baldwin

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Baldwin, WI

< 10

Therapists in Baldwin, WI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Stress
75% Relationship Issues
75% Family Conflict
75% Peer Relationships

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% HealthPartners of MN and WI
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Baldwin, WI see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Baldwin?

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.