Therapists in Springfield, IL

Photo of Inspired Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Inspired Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Do you often ask yourself what is my life's purpose, is and struggle with emptiness each day? Are you struggling to make life decisions amid feelings of uncertainty, that you are always going to make a wrong decision? Do you question your current relationships, but struggle with relational patterns such as manipulations, attachment issues, co-dependency, problems setting boundaries, narcissism-controlled environments, and emotional abuse? At Inspired Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC we understand the pressures of life at these transition stages.
Do you often ask yourself what is my life's purpose, is and struggle with emptiness each day? Are you struggling to make life decisions amid feelings of uncertainty, that you are always going to make a wrong decision? Do you question your current relationships, but struggle with relational patterns such as manipulations, attachment issues, co-dependency, problems setting boundaries, narcissism-controlled environments, and emotional abuse? At Inspired Beginnings Counseling Services, PLLC we understand the pressures of life at these transition stages.
(217) 795-9878 View (217) 795-9878
Photo of Barb C. Sherman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Barb C. Sherman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PEL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Genuine, realistic help. What meeting with me will be like? This will very much be decided by me and you together. We will chart a journey toward what “better” could look like for you and what tools and skills we can build together to get you there. Above all, I want you to feel welcomed and comfortable. I have worked hard to create a setting that feels inviting, warm, and safe.
Genuine, realistic help. What meeting with me will be like? This will very much be decided by me and you together. We will chart a journey toward what “better” could look like for you and what tools and skills we can build together to get you there. Above all, I want you to feel welcomed and comfortable. I have worked hard to create a setting that feels inviting, warm, and safe.
(217) 262-1743 View (217) 262-1743
Photo of Jordan Grimm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Jordan Grimm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. I specialize in clients struggling with grief and loss. As a clinician I recognize that as we move through life many if not most experiences include loss, physical or otherwise. I also work with clients struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or birth trauma. I provide a safe space for clients to process experiences and emotions and navigate a path forward to healing. As a member of the Still Waters Counseling team I look forward to empowering my clients so they can live their lives to the fullest and heal from past trauma.
Accepting new clients. I specialize in clients struggling with grief and loss. As a clinician I recognize that as we move through life many if not most experiences include loss, physical or otherwise. I also work with clients struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or birth trauma. I provide a safe space for clients to process experiences and emotions and navigate a path forward to healing. As a member of the Still Waters Counseling team I look forward to empowering my clients so they can live their lives to the fullest and heal from past trauma.
(217) 269-1394 View (217) 269-1394
Photo of Tara Winkler, Counselor in Springfield, IL
Tara Winkler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Waitlist for new clients
As a mental health clinician, I consider it an honor to help individuals and their families as they navigate the challenges in their lives. My approach to therapy focuses on highlighting and building on my clients' personal strengths, as we work together to achieve treatment goals and simply feel better. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment that encourages emotional exploration, healing, and wellness. I have a holistic approach to therapy, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and interventions, with an emphasis on mindfulness, yogic interventions, and positive psychology.
As a mental health clinician, I consider it an honor to help individuals and their families as they navigate the challenges in their lives. My approach to therapy focuses on highlighting and building on my clients' personal strengths, as we work together to achieve treatment goals and simply feel better. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment that encourages emotional exploration, healing, and wellness. I have a holistic approach to therapy, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and interventions, with an emphasis on mindfulness, yogic interventions, and positive psychology.
(217) 487-6247 View (217) 487-6247
Photo of Linda Lanier, Psychologist in Springfield, IL
Linda Lanier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701
If you are stressed or depressed or working through a difficult time, it can be so helpful to have a safe, compassionate person to bounce things off of. I don't have all of the answers, but, after nearly 3 decades of experience, I have some of them. Using data-based techniques, I can help you correct unhelpful patterns and unlock answers within yourself. I love helping people live their best life.
If you are stressed or depressed or working through a difficult time, it can be so helpful to have a safe, compassionate person to bounce things off of. I don't have all of the answers, but, after nearly 3 decades of experience, I have some of them. Using data-based techniques, I can help you correct unhelpful patterns and unlock answers within yourself. I love helping people live their best life.
(217) 993-9006 View (217) 993-9006
Behavioral Health Center of Il-Jesse Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Jesse Gutierrez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16+ years working with a wide range of clinical experiences in community mental health, Memorial Health Systems, Memorial Medical Center Employee Award, outpatient private practice, Mental Health Centers of Central Illinois Crisis intervention programs, partial hospitalization Memorial Counseling Associates, Consulting, and Clinical Manager of Physicians Services at Vine Street. Jesse provides therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, life changes and transitions, grief, self-esteem, anger management, and stress management.
Jesse Gutierrez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16+ years working with a wide range of clinical experiences in community mental health, Memorial Health Systems, Memorial Medical Center Employee Award, outpatient private practice, Mental Health Centers of Central Illinois Crisis intervention programs, partial hospitalization Memorial Counseling Associates, Consulting, and Clinical Manager of Physicians Services at Vine Street. Jesse provides therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, life changes and transitions, grief, self-esteem, anger management, and stress management.
(217) 269-8542 View (217) 269-8542
Photo of J. 'andrew' Dewey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
J. 'andrew' Dewey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
J. "Andrew" Dewey offers individual, couples, and family therapy to the Springfield area. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois with six years of experience, which includes working within DCFS. Andrew is a veteran of the United States Army and has a passion for helping other veterans achieve overall wellness. Andrew is SMART (Self Management and Recovery Training) certified and is involved in advocacy for drug and alcohol policies. He hosts group therapy at the Springfield office starting March 2, 2023. It will run every Thursday in the evening.
J. "Andrew" Dewey offers individual, couples, and family therapy to the Springfield area. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois with six years of experience, which includes working within DCFS. Andrew is a veteran of the United States Army and has a passion for helping other veterans achieve overall wellness. Andrew is SMART (Self Management and Recovery Training) certified and is involved in advocacy for drug and alcohol policies. He hosts group therapy at the Springfield office starting March 2, 2023. It will run every Thursday in the evening.
(217) 906-4149 View (217) 906-4149
Photo of Janson Shehorn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Janson Shehorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Janson Shehorn, LPC, NCC, is a genuine, caring, and enthusiastic individual. He has spent many years working with young people, from early elementary age to college age, in a variety of professional settings. He has a passion for making the most of every moment and helping others to reach a similar point of view. He aims to cultivate a positive working relationship during the counseling process. Janson encourages his clients to develop new skills and to self-reflect to foster long lasting change within their lives. Janson works with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, addiction, anxiety, grief and more.
Janson Shehorn, LPC, NCC, is a genuine, caring, and enthusiastic individual. He has spent many years working with young people, from early elementary age to college age, in a variety of professional settings. He has a passion for making the most of every moment and helping others to reach a similar point of view. He aims to cultivate a positive working relationship during the counseling process. Janson encourages his clients to develop new skills and to self-reflect to foster long lasting change within their lives. Janson works with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, addiction, anxiety, grief and more.
(217) 727-8416 View (217) 727-8416
Photo of Seneca Stevenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Seneca Stevenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701  (Online Only)
I am a licensed social worker in the state of Illinois. I have more than 10 years of professional work experience. I work with my clients to create an open space, where it feels safe sorting through stress, trauma, anxiety, depression and any of life's challenges. I specialize in affirming clients and guiding them through utilizing the best parts of themselves. I am compassionate and understanding and strive to make sure clients feel heard. I have extensive experience working with youth and adolescents, as I have previously served as a school social worker.
I am a licensed social worker in the state of Illinois. I have more than 10 years of professional work experience. I work with my clients to create an open space, where it feels safe sorting through stress, trauma, anxiety, depression and any of life's challenges. I specialize in affirming clients and guiding them through utilizing the best parts of themselves. I am compassionate and understanding and strive to make sure clients feel heard. I have extensive experience working with youth and adolescents, as I have previously served as a school social worker.
(217) 765-8220 View (217) 765-8220
Photo of Cathy L Brown, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Cathy L Brown
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Offering 20+ years of skilled counseling experience specializing in child and adolescent issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression and all school issues. I have special training in adult issues related to self-improvement, anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders, codependency, abuse. parent/child relationships, and divorce recovery.
Offering 20+ years of skilled counseling experience specializing in child and adolescent issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression and all school issues. I have special training in adult issues related to self-improvement, anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders, codependency, abuse. parent/child relationships, and divorce recovery.
(217) 481-8078 View (217) 481-8078
Photo of Personal Counseling Services - Vicki Vandeveer, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist in Springfield, IL
Personal Counseling Services - Vicki Vandeveer, MA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCPC, CADC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
People sometimes need help. Stress/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, health problems, substance abuse, traumatic events, difficult relationships or family problems can interfere with a persons health & happiness. Since 1991, Vicki Vandeveer and staff have had the privilege to work with many people who were looking for answers to the difficulties in their lives. The agency mission is simple: We work with you to develop your goals and identify next steps to achieve them. PCS is dedicated to providing professional counseling services to assist individuals, families and groups in improving their lives "one step at a time."
People sometimes need help. Stress/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, health problems, substance abuse, traumatic events, difficult relationships or family problems can interfere with a persons health & happiness. Since 1991, Vicki Vandeveer and staff have had the privilege to work with many people who were looking for answers to the difficulties in their lives. The agency mission is simple: We work with you to develop your goals and identify next steps to achieve them. PCS is dedicated to providing professional counseling services to assist individuals, families and groups in improving their lives "one step at a time."
(217) 216-8284 View (217) 216-8284
Cynthia Martin Wadsworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701
Compassionate, active, and evidence-based treatment help you heal with a focus on your goals. I am trained in working with young children. I see children 0-5, school aged children, teens, and adults. We will work as a team together to meet your needs. Our relationship will help you gain and maintain mental health and overcome difficulties. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you.
Compassionate, active, and evidence-based treatment help you heal with a focus on your goals. I am trained in working with young children. I see children 0-5, school aged children, teens, and adults. We will work as a team together to meet your needs. Our relationship will help you gain and maintain mental health and overcome difficulties. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you.
(833) 969-1309 View (833) 969-1309
Photo of Tommy Thompson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Tommy Thompson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Starting a new year can be an exciting and motivational time. Starting the journey of building a new you or changing your life to be more authentic. My counseling approach focuses on helping you better understand you, your life, to find clarity, and purpose. This can help you become more genuine and deepen your relationships with those you care most about. I see couples, families, and individuals with a keen interest in teenagers and those experiencing transitions in their life, especially with grief. I am accepting and welcoming of different spiritual views, gender, gender expression, sexualities, etc.
Starting a new year can be an exciting and motivational time. Starting the journey of building a new you or changing your life to be more authentic. My counseling approach focuses on helping you better understand you, your life, to find clarity, and purpose. This can help you become more genuine and deepen your relationships with those you care most about. I see couples, families, and individuals with a keen interest in teenagers and those experiencing transitions in their life, especially with grief. I am accepting and welcoming of different spiritual views, gender, gender expression, sexualities, etc.
(217) 262-1276 View (217) 262-1276
Photo of Devin Henderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Devin Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. - Life often brings us through unexpected twists and turns. My mission is to help people navigate these experiences, whether they be past, current, anticipatory, or all the above. I am passionate about helping people in the perinatal stage(s) of life, as well as those struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I strive to build a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship which helps clients engage in reflection, learning, and the pursuit of their fullest potential.
Accepting new clients. - Life often brings us through unexpected twists and turns. My mission is to help people navigate these experiences, whether they be past, current, anticipatory, or all the above. I am passionate about helping people in the perinatal stage(s) of life, as well as those struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I strive to build a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship which helps clients engage in reflection, learning, and the pursuit of their fullest potential.
(217) 846-9760 View (217) 846-9760
Photo of Margie Wheelhouse, Marriage & Family Therapist in Springfield, IL
Margie Wheelhouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Hope is better when it's combined with a plan. If you're having too many fights without resolution, I can help you. I help couples figure out how to resolve stuff once and for all. Even when you're successful in most areas of life, It's hard to be happy when problems are chronically unresolved. It's even worse when the past hangs over the relationship, or you feel like room-mates. If your relationship problems are weighing down your otherwise great life, then counseling can make a big difference.
Hope is better when it's combined with a plan. If you're having too many fights without resolution, I can help you. I help couples figure out how to resolve stuff once and for all. Even when you're successful in most areas of life, It's hard to be happy when problems are chronically unresolved. It's even worse when the past hangs over the relationship, or you feel like room-mates. If your relationship problems are weighing down your otherwise great life, then counseling can make a big difference.
(217) 703-1410 View (217) 703-1410
Photo of Sarah Spurling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Springfield, IL
Sarah Spurling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Sarah Spurling (she/they) is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, holding an MSW from the University at Buffalo, SUNY. With a commitment to cultural sensitivity and supporting LGBTQ+ populations, Sarah's practice is grounded in an identity-affirming, anti-oppressive framework that respects and validates diverse lived experiences. Drawing from a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, humanistic, existential, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Sarah tailors her approach to each individual's unique needs and circumstances.
Sarah Spurling (she/they) is a compassionate Licensed Social Worker based in Illinois, holding an MSW from the University at Buffalo, SUNY. With a commitment to cultural sensitivity and supporting LGBTQ+ populations, Sarah's practice is grounded in an identity-affirming, anti-oppressive framework that respects and validates diverse lived experiences. Drawing from a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, humanistic, existential, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapies, Sarah tailors her approach to each individual's unique needs and circumstances.
(217) 834-1983 View (217) 834-1983
Photo of Ashley N Mesey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Ashley N Mesey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. I have been in the mental health field for some time, and in my journey I have found a passion for helping others, especially when there are many things to consider: physical health, mental health, spiritual health, recovery from addiction, etc... It's my belief to look at the person as a whole rather than a list of concerns.
Hello and welcome. I have been in the mental health field for some time, and in my journey I have found a passion for helping others, especially when there are many things to consider: physical health, mental health, spiritual health, recovery from addiction, etc... It's my belief to look at the person as a whole rather than a list of concerns.
(217) 834-8189 View (217) 834-8189
Photo of Emily Baughman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Emily Baughman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Emily Baughman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has an MA in Human Development Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a BS and AA in Psychology. Emily is devoted to positively impacting the lives of her clients by helping them to develop skills necessary to survive and thrive in every season of life. She thrives in a collaborative therapeutic alliance that promotes safety, trust, and growth through supportive interactions with clients.
Emily Baughman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has an MA in Human Development Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a BS and AA in Psychology. Emily is devoted to positively impacting the lives of her clients by helping them to develop skills necessary to survive and thrive in every season of life. She thrives in a collaborative therapeutic alliance that promotes safety, trust, and growth through supportive interactions with clients.
(217) 628-7604 View (217) 628-7604
Photo of Rachel Rambach, Licensed Professional Counselor in Springfield, IL
Rachel Rambach
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
School, work, relationships — life in general — can be difficult, and we're not meant to do it alone. Are you navigating a life transition and experiencing some bumps along that road? Maybe you're preparing to graduate and move on to the next phase, starting a new career, becoming a parent, facing a divorce, heading into retirement...no matter what the case, change is difficult. You are already taking the first step by seeking support, and for that, I applaud you. Let's take the next step together.
School, work, relationships — life in general — can be difficult, and we're not meant to do it alone. Are you navigating a life transition and experiencing some bumps along that road? Maybe you're preparing to graduate and move on to the next phase, starting a new career, becoming a parent, facing a divorce, heading into retirement...no matter what the case, change is difficult. You are already taking the first step by seeking support, and for that, I applaud you. Let's take the next step together.
(217) 335-4850 View (217) 335-4850
Photo of J. Graham Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Springfield, IL
J. Graham Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703  (Online Only)
I am the only fully Certified Gottman Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gottman therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
I am the only fully Certified Gottman Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gottman therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
(217) 645-6741 View (217) 645-6741

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Springfield, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Springfield, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
67% Stress
64% Relationship Issues
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Springfield, IL see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
18% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Springfield?

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.