Therapists in Berkeley Springs, WV

Photo of Alison McGrath Howard, PsyD, MEd, CGP, Psychologist
Alison McGrath Howard
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd, CGP
Verified Verified
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
As a generalist, I have experience working with many different people who seek help for a multitude of difficulties. I am an eclectic therapist with a rich grounding in psychological theory and decades of experience of practice. I use my theory of mind with practical skills, which helps me tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of all my patients.
As a generalist, I have experience working with many different people who seek help for a multitude of difficulties. I am an eclectic therapist with a rich grounding in psychological theory and decades of experience of practice. I use my theory of mind with practical skills, which helps me tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of all my patients.
(202) 798-0994 View (202) 798-0994
Photo of Tiffany N Hendershot, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany N Hendershot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Whether you’re feeling weighed down by anxiety, stuck in patterns of depression, or trying to heal from past trauma have hope that life can get better. My laid-back personality will put you at ease so you feel comfortable sharing your story. I will teach you about your mind so you can understand your emotions and behaviors. I focus on your family and friends to understand how they contribute to your symptoms. I’ll challenge and support you, helping you to step outside your comfort zone because that is where change happens.
Whether you’re feeling weighed down by anxiety, stuck in patterns of depression, or trying to heal from past trauma have hope that life can get better. My laid-back personality will put you at ease so you feel comfortable sharing your story. I will teach you about your mind so you can understand your emotions and behaviors. I focus on your family and friends to understand how they contribute to your symptoms. I’ll challenge and support you, helping you to step outside your comfort zone because that is where change happens.
(304) 969-7042 View (304) 969-7042
Photo of Lacee Nicole Kidwell - Solace Counseling and Wellness, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Solace Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Lacee's focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This is achieved by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that is right for you. Lacee promises to be there for you every step of your journey. Her goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life. Lacee Kidwell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of West Virginia and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Lacee received her Masters of Counseling from Marshall University.
Lacee's focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. This is achieved by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that is right for you. Lacee promises to be there for you every step of your journey. Her goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life. Lacee Kidwell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of West Virginia and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Lacee received her Masters of Counseling from Marshall University.
(304) 396-0584 View (304) 396-0584
Photo of Alexis Dixon, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
At times, we struggle through life’s challenges, perhaps feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure of the path forward. Maybe you’re going through a stressful transition, burdened by emotional pain or trauma, or just have a feeling that life isn’t supposed to be this way. Psychotherapy can help you navigate life’s challenges and develop tools to help you cope. My focus is to work with you to understand your concerns, explore underlying causes, and help you take back control of your stress and your life. Regardless of the intensity, severity, and frequency of your concerns, nothing is too big or too small for therapy.
At times, we struggle through life’s challenges, perhaps feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure of the path forward. Maybe you’re going through a stressful transition, burdened by emotional pain or trauma, or just have a feeling that life isn’t supposed to be this way. Psychotherapy can help you navigate life’s challenges and develop tools to help you cope. My focus is to work with you to understand your concerns, explore underlying causes, and help you take back control of your stress and your life. Regardless of the intensity, severity, and frequency of your concerns, nothing is too big or too small for therapy.
(240) 343-7083 View (240) 343-7083
Photo of Linda M Parkhill, MA, LPC, ALPS, Counselor
Linda M Parkhill
Counselor, MA, LPC, ALPS
Verified Verified
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
My approach in counseling is somewhat holistic and eclectic. I believe a supportive counseling environment works to help a client achieve awareness, thus leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. Hopefully, the value will be realized in both behavioral and emotional changes. Under all circumstances, my mission is to treat the client with the utmost regard and honor the human condition as it is. Counseling hours are available most days at your convenience. Often clients are able to schedule an appointment with 24 hours of calling my office.
My approach in counseling is somewhat holistic and eclectic. I believe a supportive counseling environment works to help a client achieve awareness, thus leading to healing and personal growth. My role is to help clients explore their emotional needs and provide feedback. Hopefully, the value will be realized in both behavioral and emotional changes. Under all circumstances, my mission is to treat the client with the utmost regard and honor the human condition as it is. Counseling hours are available most days at your convenience. Often clients are able to schedule an appointment with 24 hours of calling my office.
(304) 462-9991 View (304) 462-9991
Photo of Kristy-Ann Cook - Carpe Diem Counseling, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carpe Diem Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
I am compassionate and nonjudgmental who will offer the support you need to overcome life's difficulties. We are all different in the way we experience and manage life. I have always been interested in the wellness of others and have been blessed to watch many people find recovery. If you are feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, worried or sad, then together we can discover or revisit your healthy options to navigate those feelings. You have taken a step in the right direction to navigate those feelings and to reach out for help. Connection to others allows us to find peace and improved quality of life.
I am compassionate and nonjudgmental who will offer the support you need to overcome life's difficulties. We are all different in the way we experience and manage life. I have always been interested in the wellness of others and have been blessed to watch many people find recovery. If you are feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, worried or sad, then together we can discover or revisit your healthy options to navigate those feelings. You have taken a step in the right direction to navigate those feelings and to reach out for help. Connection to others allows us to find peace and improved quality of life.
(540) 340-5771 View (540) 340-5771
Photo of Brynn Simmons - Hometown Healing, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hometown Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Hometown Healing is a family owned practice. Brynn and Jesse Simmons established the practice in 2020 to provide the community with a new approach to therapy and overall wellness. We currently have two clinicians, Heather Carr, LGSW and Brynn Simmons, LPC. Hometown Healing offers therapy for all ages. Together we can identify goals to help make changes in your life, or manage hard, overwhelming feelings.
Hometown Healing is a family owned practice. Brynn and Jesse Simmons established the practice in 2020 to provide the community with a new approach to therapy and overall wellness. We currently have two clinicians, Heather Carr, LGSW and Brynn Simmons, LPC. Hometown Healing offers therapy for all ages. Together we can identify goals to help make changes in your life, or manage hard, overwhelming feelings.
(304) 449-3441 View (304) 449-3441

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Emily Marie Roxberry - Finding your Path Therapy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Finding your Path Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Emily, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), has dedicated her career to bringing moments of clarity, understanding, and peace to individuals battling challenging issues. With nearly two decades of experience in the field, Emily's emphatic nature combined with her clinically-trained eye has helped numerous individuals and families navigate life's complexities.
Emily, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), has dedicated her career to bringing moments of clarity, understanding, and peace to individuals battling challenging issues. With nearly two decades of experience in the field, Emily's emphatic nature combined with her clinically-trained eye has helped numerous individuals and families navigate life's complexities.
(304) 944-4232 View (304) 944-4232
Photo of Starling Hathcock, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Starling Hathcock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Not accepting new clients
Has the state of the world left you fucking exhausted? Do you drag yourself through your day fakin’ it ‘til ya makin’ it? Do you find yourself spending more of your free time than you'd like stuck inside staring at the clock and a teapot like “The Beast” or doom scrolling to Matt Matthew’s chicken banter, ‘cause throat punchin’ a bitch will catch you a charge? Does Tatum My Dude’s take on “punch up” resonate with you as you are wishing your life away? Can you relate to Olivia Benson while she was assaulted by William Lewis and the hell that followed?
Has the state of the world left you fucking exhausted? Do you drag yourself through your day fakin’ it ‘til ya makin’ it? Do you find yourself spending more of your free time than you'd like stuck inside staring at the clock and a teapot like “The Beast” or doom scrolling to Matt Matthew’s chicken banter, ‘cause throat punchin’ a bitch will catch you a charge? Does Tatum My Dude’s take on “punch up” resonate with you as you are wishing your life away? Can you relate to Olivia Benson while she was assaulted by William Lewis and the hell that followed?
(240) 219-5583 View (240) 219-5583
Photo of Chase Butala, MS, LPC, LCPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chase Butala
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck, struggling with repetitive patterns in your life that leave you unsatisfied, or seeking more fulfilling relationships? Perhaps you're eager to establish new, healthier habits but find it challenging to take action. Finding a safe, trustworthy space to address these issues can be difficult, but it's essential to have a space where you are genuinely heard, understood, and supported in identifying and addressing your blind spots. Enhancing your emotional well-being and improving your overall quality of life is within reach.
Are you feeling stuck, struggling with repetitive patterns in your life that leave you unsatisfied, or seeking more fulfilling relationships? Perhaps you're eager to establish new, healthier habits but find it challenging to take action. Finding a safe, trustworthy space to address these issues can be difficult, but it's essential to have a space where you are genuinely heard, understood, and supported in identifying and addressing your blind spots. Enhancing your emotional well-being and improving your overall quality of life is within reach.
(240) 657-2547 View (240) 657-2547
Photo of Martin R. Mayfield, Psychologist
Martin R. Mayfield
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
As a parent and a psychologist, I believe there is nothing more important than the well being of our children. For over thirty years, I have specialized in providing psychological therapy and psychoeducational testing services to children and adolescents in the Winchester area. I believe in the notion that to tap a child's potential, we need to focus on his or her strengths. Psychological testing enables us to determine just what those strenghts are, and if there are significant weaknesses, direct intervention strategies are outlined and put into play. The child's parents are always central in the process.
As a parent and a psychologist, I believe there is nothing more important than the well being of our children. For over thirty years, I have specialized in providing psychological therapy and psychoeducational testing services to children and adolescents in the Winchester area. I believe in the notion that to tap a child's potential, we need to focus on his or her strengths. Psychological testing enables us to determine just what those strenghts are, and if there are significant weaknesses, direct intervention strategies are outlined and put into play. The child's parents are always central in the process.
(540) 929-0990 View (540) 929-0990
Photo of Maggie Wolford, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Wolford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from West Virginia University and am a licensed, independent clinician in both West Virginia and Maryland. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults and have experience working with depression, anxiety, life transitions, mood disorders, chronic illness and crisis intervention. I believe that all people possess the strengths and abilities to overcome life’s challenges and sometimes we just need a safe space, an open mind and some extra tools to cope with these inevitable parts of life.
I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from West Virginia University and am a licensed, independent clinician in both West Virginia and Maryland. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults and have experience working with depression, anxiety, life transitions, mood disorders, chronic illness and crisis intervention. I believe that all people possess the strengths and abilities to overcome life’s challenges and sometimes we just need a safe space, an open mind and some extra tools to cope with these inevitable parts of life.
(304) 396-0364 View (304) 396-0364
Photo of Kay R McCoy, MSW, WVLICSW, WVAADC, NYLCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kay R McCoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, WVLICSW, WVAADC, NYLCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Telehealth mental health therapy sessions with me provide a safe place, from the comfort of your own home, to share your your thoughts, feelings, fears, and as much of your personal story as you choose. You are always the center of my attention, and therapy is based on what you want to change about your behaviors, thoughts or feelings. I listen to what you have to say, and help you identify solutions to problems you may identify. I provide crisis counseling, brief therapy, and long term psychotherapy based on your needs.
Telehealth mental health therapy sessions with me provide a safe place, from the comfort of your own home, to share your your thoughts, feelings, fears, and as much of your personal story as you choose. You are always the center of my attention, and therapy is based on what you want to change about your behaviors, thoughts or feelings. I listen to what you have to say, and help you identify solutions to problems you may identify. I provide crisis counseling, brief therapy, and long term psychotherapy based on your needs.
(844) 204-9946 View (844) 204-9946
Photo of Jennifer Mitchell, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have constant feelings of anxiety, and panic? Do you find it difficult to do what matters to you because you're flooded with intrusive thoughts, and intense urges to engage in mental, and/or physical compulsive acts? I'm Jennifer, Licensed Professional Counselor with almost eight years of experience in the counseling field. I am most passionate about working with individuals that struggle with various anxiety disorders including panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. In addition to that, I work with individuals that feel overwhelmed with feelings of depression, and shame.
Do you have constant feelings of anxiety, and panic? Do you find it difficult to do what matters to you because you're flooded with intrusive thoughts, and intense urges to engage in mental, and/or physical compulsive acts? I'm Jennifer, Licensed Professional Counselor with almost eight years of experience in the counseling field. I am most passionate about working with individuals that struggle with various anxiety disorders including panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. In addition to that, I work with individuals that feel overwhelmed with feelings of depression, and shame.
(681) 214-2500 View (681) 214-2500
Photo of Kyle Yoder, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kyle Yoder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(304) 519-4896 View (304) 519-4896
Photo of Christal Hanson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christal Hanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
Waitlist for new clients
My therapy practice is grounded in the strong belief that each individual possesses a deep capacity for wisdom, growth and healing. My role as therapist is to provide my clients with a safe, nonjudgmental and highly effective environment where they can navigate life challenges, heal from painful experiences and enjoy tremendous personal growth.
My therapy practice is grounded in the strong belief that each individual possesses a deep capacity for wisdom, growth and healing. My role as therapist is to provide my clients with a safe, nonjudgmental and highly effective environment where they can navigate life challenges, heal from painful experiences and enjoy tremendous personal growth.
View
Photo of Janet Green Thomas, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Green Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charles Town, WV 25414
Waitlist for new clients
Finding yourself in a place in life where you feel alone, even when you are surrounded by others? Struggling to find meaning with your identity through your faith, relationships, or life in general because of grief, trauma or anxiety? Therapy can provide relief for those suffering from religious trauma, grief, depression, & trauma. Offering a safe space to process & heal from these experiences, allowing individuals to work through their emotions & find a sense of peace & understanding. Through therapy, individuals can learn coping mechanisms and develop a support system to navigate the challenges they may be facing.
Finding yourself in a place in life where you feel alone, even when you are surrounded by others? Struggling to find meaning with your identity through your faith, relationships, or life in general because of grief, trauma or anxiety? Therapy can provide relief for those suffering from religious trauma, grief, depression, & trauma. Offering a safe space to process & heal from these experiences, allowing individuals to work through their emotions & find a sense of peace & understanding. Through therapy, individuals can learn coping mechanisms and develop a support system to navigate the challenges they may be facing.
(304) 758-3229 View (304) 758-3229
Photo of Daniel Speis - Inner Awakening Counseling & Consultation, PLLC, DSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Awakening Counseling & Consultation, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25404
Awaken Hope: we help individuals by addressing some of life's most difficult challenges and experiences. Whether it's recovering from something terrible that has happened to you, dealing with life-crippling anxiety, or struggling because of overwhelming emotions, we can help. Show us the broken parts of you and let us help you awaken your ability to heal.
Awaken Hope: we help individuals by addressing some of life's most difficult challenges and experiences. Whether it's recovering from something terrible that has happened to you, dealing with life-crippling anxiety, or struggling because of overwhelming emotions, we can help. Show us the broken parts of you and let us help you awaken your ability to heal.
(304) 244-0606 View (304) 244-0606
Photo of Kierra Whitman, LPC, Counselor
Kierra Whitman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kearneysville, WV 25430
Are you a teenager trying to navigate the overwhelming feelings and thoughts that life brings on? Are you a survivor of sexual assault or domestic violence/ intimate partner abuse? Are there moments when you notice that the traumas from your past are affecting your relationships and everyday livelihood? So often, we ignore our inner hurts and we force ourselves to smile when we want to scream or laugh when we want to cry. Keeping up an act like that can be exhausting, and it can disconnect you from yourself.
Are you a teenager trying to navigate the overwhelming feelings and thoughts that life brings on? Are you a survivor of sexual assault or domestic violence/ intimate partner abuse? Are there moments when you notice that the traumas from your past are affecting your relationships and everyday livelihood? So often, we ignore our inner hurts and we force ourselves to smile when we want to scream or laugh when we want to cry. Keeping up an act like that can be exhausting, and it can disconnect you from yourself.
(681) 248-5029 View (681) 248-5029
Photo of Sue Ann DeVall, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Ann DeVall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
My goal as a therapist is to help clients who are having difficulty in our fast-paced environment dealing with life’s stressors related to marriages/partnerships, families, friendships, social isolation, employment and finances. I provide a safe place where clients know they can share in a confidential environment without judgment. All of us have negative thoughts. Realizing that we are more than our thoughts, though, can be truly liberating and allow a person to live a full and meaningful life, even when faced with struggles that may seem impossible to overcome.
My goal as a therapist is to help clients who are having difficulty in our fast-paced environment dealing with life’s stressors related to marriages/partnerships, families, friendships, social isolation, employment and finances. I provide a safe place where clients know they can share in a confidential environment without judgment. All of us have negative thoughts. Realizing that we are more than our thoughts, though, can be truly liberating and allow a person to live a full and meaningful life, even when faced with struggles that may seem impossible to overcome.
(304) 876-3500 View (304) 876-3500

See more therapy options for Berkeley Springs

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Berkeley Springs, WV

< 10

Therapists in Berkeley Springs, WV who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Relationship Issues
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Coping Skills
71% Addiction
71% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
83% Highmark

How Therapists in Berkeley Springs, WV see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Berkeley Springs?

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.