Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Nichole Redic, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Nichole Redic
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, PCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am here to help you navigate through life's difficult circumstances. When you find yourself traveling down a path that is filled with stress, worry, pain, and/or grief, I will help you identify and draw on your strengths. You may not enjoy the things that used to make you smile. Perhaps, you are facing a family challenge that sparks ongoing conflict and tension. What ever you are experiencing, don't go through it alone! Allow me to partner with you to capture lost joy, build healthy relationships, and grow personally.
I am here to help you navigate through life's difficult circumstances. When you find yourself traveling down a path that is filled with stress, worry, pain, and/or grief, I will help you identify and draw on your strengths. You may not enjoy the things that used to make you smile. Perhaps, you are facing a family challenge that sparks ongoing conflict and tension. What ever you are experiencing, don't go through it alone! Allow me to partner with you to capture lost joy, build healthy relationships, and grow personally.
(614) 802-5717 View (614) 802-5717
Photo of Edward Luersman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Edward Luersman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Grief, infertility, and miscarriage leave us feeling alone, overwhelmed, and trapped. You may be fed up with a lack of recognition or helpful support from loved ones and the Church, feeling uncertain and scared about the future, or feeling guilty or worthless. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to have someone who understands you and can accompany you. You’re ready to learn how to better cope with your loss or infertility. Most of all, you’re ready to do what it takes to experience less pain and isolation and more peace and hope.
Grief, infertility, and miscarriage leave us feeling alone, overwhelmed, and trapped. You may be fed up with a lack of recognition or helpful support from loved ones and the Church, feeling uncertain and scared about the future, or feeling guilty or worthless. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to have someone who understands you and can accompany you. You’re ready to learn how to better cope with your loss or infertility. Most of all, you’re ready to do what it takes to experience less pain and isolation and more peace and hope.
(614) 957-3061 View (614) 957-3061
Photo of Emily Combes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Emily Combes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I believe great strides can be made through a strong therapeutic relationship. When you walk into my office you will be stepping into a judgement free space and met with compassion and support. Come as you are with everything you have. I have a passion for working with women throughout their journey to motherhood and parenting. Motherhood has been one of the most dramatic life transitions in my life. Whether you are trying to conceive, anxious during pregnancy, or walking through the throes of the fourth trimester (and beyond) I will walk by your side and help you to find who you are in this new stage of life.
I believe great strides can be made through a strong therapeutic relationship. When you walk into my office you will be stepping into a judgement free space and met with compassion and support. Come as you are with everything you have. I have a passion for working with women throughout their journey to motherhood and parenting. Motherhood has been one of the most dramatic life transitions in my life. Whether you are trying to conceive, anxious during pregnancy, or walking through the throes of the fourth trimester (and beyond) I will walk by your side and help you to find who you are in this new stage of life.
(380) 201-9689 View (380) 201-9689
Photo of Melanie Bergsten, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Melanie Bergsten
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Not accepting new clients
Life can be challenging and we all need a place where we can be seen, heard and understood without judgement. You may feel stuck as a result of depression or anxiety or you may want to grow, change or feel more confident and connected to others. I have a passion for helping others as they navigate their unique life path and encounter a variety of life stressors.
Life can be challenging and we all need a place where we can be seen, heard and understood without judgement. You may feel stuck as a result of depression or anxiety or you may want to grow, change or feel more confident and connected to others. I have a passion for helping others as they navigate their unique life path and encounter a variety of life stressors.
(740) 245-3669 View (740) 245-3669
Photo of Angela T. Horton, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Angela T. Horton
Counselor, MACMHC, LPCC-S, NCC, CCMHC, CDCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Waitlist for new clients
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
(614) 389-9452 View (614) 389-9452
Photo of Jennifer Eller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Jennifer Eller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Hi, I'm Jenny, a compassionate master’s level licensed social worker specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and strengths-based therapy. I help clients and their families who experience trauma, grief, anxiety, or depression. My mission is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can freely express yourself and work towards meaningful change.
Hi, I'm Jenny, a compassionate master’s level licensed social worker specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and strengths-based therapy. I help clients and their families who experience trauma, grief, anxiety, or depression. My mission is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can freely express yourself and work towards meaningful change.
(614) 756-3856 View (614) 756-3856
Photo of Ellen Papadeas, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Ellen Papadeas
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
Ellen Papadeas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor through the state of Ohio, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the state of Massachusetts. She earned her B.A. in English Literature from Davidson College and her Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. After a career in media production, Ellen turned to serve the realm of public mental health, through In Home Family Therapy and individual counseling for children and adults. She also provided social/emotional wellness support in a therapeutic elementary school.
(380) 333-6794 View (380) 333-6794
Photo of Sara E Matlack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Sara E Matlack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I genuinely enjoy working with families and adults seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Parent child interaction, trauma, Domestic Violence and Spirituality. I love helping clients meet their individual goals and improving their coping skills to decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues and trauma.
I genuinely enjoy working with families and adults seeking help with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Parent child interaction, trauma, Domestic Violence and Spirituality. I love helping clients meet their individual goals and improving their coping skills to decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues and trauma.
(833) 579-7674 View (833) 579-7674
Photo of Josh Grashin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Josh Grashin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is one who is looking for more and may or may not be able to pinpoint what it is they are seeking. Many of the people I counsel are dealing with a new life situation or have always been struggling for awhile, and therefore I approach every client as an individual with their own unique circumstances and that it is my job to help determine how to navigate those challenges. My ultimate goal is to help people learn to ride the waves that day-to-day life throws at them.
My ideal client is one who is looking for more and may or may not be able to pinpoint what it is they are seeking. Many of the people I counsel are dealing with a new life situation or have always been struggling for awhile, and therefore I approach every client as an individual with their own unique circumstances and that it is my job to help determine how to navigate those challenges. My ultimate goal is to help people learn to ride the waves that day-to-day life throws at them.
(614) 665-5594 View (614) 665-5594
Photo of Peggy L Lucas, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Peggy L Lucas
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Peggy L. Lucas, LPCC Peggy L. Lucas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1997. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s in Education (Community and Agency Mental Health) from Ohio University.
Peggy L. Lucas, LPCC Peggy L. Lucas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1997. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s in Education (Community and Agency Mental Health) from Ohio University.
(614) 689-3451 View (614) 689-3451
Photo of Roy McClelland Jr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Roy McClelland Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
(380) 201-9508 View (380) 201-9508
Photo of Holly Mundon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Holly Mundon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LISWS , CCTP , CDCA
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you having struggles in your job or relationship? Have you been diagnosed with a mental illness and need coping skills as you learn to manage all that it entails? Do you need education, support, and encouragement? I work with grief/loss, trauma, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills & boundaries, relationship and job stressors, life transitions, and general support. I am passionate about helping those who are 'helping professions' and work with health professionals and first responders dealing with secondary trauma. We will work together to set goals for taking the next steps to feel better.
Are you having struggles in your job or relationship? Have you been diagnosed with a mental illness and need coping skills as you learn to manage all that it entails? Do you need education, support, and encouragement? I work with grief/loss, trauma, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills & boundaries, relationship and job stressors, life transitions, and general support. I am passionate about helping those who are 'helping professions' and work with health professionals and first responders dealing with secondary trauma. We will work together to set goals for taking the next steps to feel better.
(380) 333-9203 View (380) 333-9203
Photo of Kimberly Foreman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Kimberly Foreman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISWS
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is ready to do the hard work of making real change in their life. Sometimes, people think change has to be big to start therapeutic services; it doesn’t. Sometimes, learning to breathe, decrease anxiety, and be more mindful of your strengths can become a great asset. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever; sometimes, you just need help getting through the now. I help individuals & families dealing with chronic illnesses and end of life. At times like those, crises often happen: medical conflict, spiritual conflict, familial conflict, financial concerns, housing and food insecurity.
My ideal client is ready to do the hard work of making real change in their life. Sometimes, people think change has to be big to start therapeutic services; it doesn’t. Sometimes, learning to breathe, decrease anxiety, and be more mindful of your strengths can become a great asset. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever; sometimes, you just need help getting through the now. I help individuals & families dealing with chronic illnesses and end of life. At times like those, crises often happen: medical conflict, spiritual conflict, familial conflict, financial concerns, housing and food insecurity.
(380) 600-8826 View (380) 600-8826
Photo of Sharon Hawkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Sharon Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW , LICDC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I'm not sure I have an ideal client. I believe in meeting a person where they are and moving forward from there. I feel people often come to therapy to help find the best version of themselves. I enjoy helping others find solutions to their problems, helping them identify their strengths, and deciding how to improve their weaknesses.
I'm not sure I have an ideal client. I believe in meeting a person where they are and moving forward from there. I feel people often come to therapy to help find the best version of themselves. I enjoy helping others find solutions to their problems, helping them identify their strengths, and deciding how to improve their weaknesses.
(380) 210-3436 View (380) 210-3436
Photo of Kristin McConnell, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Kristin McConnell
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
If you entered motherhood with your idealistic views and are now buried under the demands of your family’s needs wondering what happened, or where things went awry, I get it! Whether it's the mental load, stress/burn out, sensory overwhelm, default parenting or things like anxiety, neurodivergent features or life transitions...I'm here for you. As a mother your first priority is everyone else but you deserve to have your needs met too. But how? It starts with feelings supported and empowered. It starts with you taking time for yourself. Let's work together and learn some tools and strategies so you can thrive.
If you entered motherhood with your idealistic views and are now buried under the demands of your family’s needs wondering what happened, or where things went awry, I get it! Whether it's the mental load, stress/burn out, sensory overwhelm, default parenting or things like anxiety, neurodivergent features or life transitions...I'm here for you. As a mother your first priority is everyone else but you deserve to have your needs met too. But how? It starts with feelings supported and empowered. It starts with you taking time for yourself. Let's work together and learn some tools and strategies so you can thrive.
(614) 802-6010 View (614) 802-6010
Photo of Marti Gottfried, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Marti Gottfried
Counselor, MSEd, PCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
As Emerson once said, "Life is a journey not a destination". And I believe we all face challenges on our journey. I help people who are struggling with those challenges by providing a safe, confidential, and supportive environment. I have over 10 years experience working with individuals, adolescents and families with a focus on helping clients grow, heal, and transform. We join together to build on strengths rather than focus on weaknesses. I provide practical feed-back, problem solving, and coping skills for issues such as, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, divorce, life transitions, communication, and grief and loss.
As Emerson once said, "Life is a journey not a destination". And I believe we all face challenges on our journey. I help people who are struggling with those challenges by providing a safe, confidential, and supportive environment. I have over 10 years experience working with individuals, adolescents and families with a focus on helping clients grow, heal, and transform. We join together to build on strengths rather than focus on weaknesses. I provide practical feed-back, problem solving, and coping skills for issues such as, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, divorce, life transitions, communication, and grief and loss.
(614) 212-5199 View (614) 212-5199
Photo of Grace Crawley, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Grace Crawley
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am passionate about helping clients learn to love themselves in their current space. Life is hard and unpredictable and all of us come to points in our life where we need some extra help. Maybe you are finding yourself at a crossroad in life and are struggling to identify where to turn. Maybe you are wrestling with ongoing depression and anxiety that is beginning to feel debilitating. Maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or an old way of thinking. Wherever you are, if you have found yourself here, you have identified that you need support and I would love to meet you in that space.
I am passionate about helping clients learn to love themselves in their current space. Life is hard and unpredictable and all of us come to points in our life where we need some extra help. Maybe you are finding yourself at a crossroad in life and are struggling to identify where to turn. Maybe you are wrestling with ongoing depression and anxiety that is beginning to feel debilitating. Maybe you are grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, a dream, or an old way of thinking. Wherever you are, if you have found yourself here, you have identified that you need support and I would love to meet you in that space.
(380) 207-0521 View (380) 207-0521
Photo of One Recovery Company LLC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
One Recovery Company LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CSAT, EMDR-tr, M
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Is your relationship with a loved one or spouse suffering? Are you keeping secrets from loved ones or feel you are at the place where you need intervention? At One Recovery Company, I specialize in addressing internal and external systems that create dysfunction in relationships. Furthermore, I help my clients reconstruct the parts of themselves that seem to fall short of achieving healthy attachment. If your goal is to establish recovery that can restore your relationships, mental health, and overall life satisfaction, here is your invitation. The space I offer is one that is safe, judgment-free, and equipped to help you succeed.
Is your relationship with a loved one or spouse suffering? Are you keeping secrets from loved ones or feel you are at the place where you need intervention? At One Recovery Company, I specialize in addressing internal and external systems that create dysfunction in relationships. Furthermore, I help my clients reconstruct the parts of themselves that seem to fall short of achieving healthy attachment. If your goal is to establish recovery that can restore your relationships, mental health, and overall life satisfaction, here is your invitation. The space I offer is one that is safe, judgment-free, and equipped to help you succeed.
(614) 739-9406 View (614) 739-9406
Photo of Eric C Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Eric C Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
(614) 980-2290 View (614) 980-2290
Photo of Heather Nicol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Heather Nicol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Is it time to focus on you? Are you experiencing relationship issues or parenting difficulties? Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or irritability? Is your job bringing you more sorrow than joy? If you answered yes to any of these questions you may benefit from the insight of a therapist. As a mental health therapist for the past 25 years I take pride in joining with my clients to sort through whatever issues are challenging to them in a warm, nurturing environment. Together we can reach the successes in life YOU desire either in person or via Telehealth.
Is it time to focus on you? Are you experiencing relationship issues or parenting difficulties? Are you struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, or irritability? Is your job bringing you more sorrow than joy? If you answered yes to any of these questions you may benefit from the insight of a therapist. As a mental health therapist for the past 25 years I take pride in joining with my clients to sort through whatever issues are challenging to them in a warm, nurturing environment. Together we can reach the successes in life YOU desire either in person or via Telehealth.
(614) 683-3294 View (614) 683-3294

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
66% Grief
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
75% Optum
69% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

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.