Heroes and Villains Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
Welcome Geeks one and all. We are geeks using geek culture to counsel other geeks. We believe that shared affinity helps aid the therapeutic process by strengthening the therapeutic alliance. We also believe that we as humans are often able to best see ourselves and the plight we find ourselves through the power of story. We see trauma in Batman, grief in Harry Potter, depression in One Punch Man, and so on. We believe in the power of friendship and thus we offer various kinds of groups- D&D, video games, and educational groups because the journey is best taken together.
Welcome Geeks one and all. We are geeks using geek culture to counsel other geeks. We believe that shared affinity helps aid the therapeutic process by strengthening the therapeutic alliance. We also believe that we as humans are often able to best see ourselves and the plight we find ourselves through the power of story. We see trauma in Batman, grief in Harry Potter, depression in One Punch Man, and so on. We believe in the power of friendship and thus we offer various kinds of groups- D&D, video games, and educational groups because the journey is best taken together.
(346) 220-1074 View (346) 220-1074
Photo of Carolyn Cowl-Witherspoon, PhD
Carolyn Cowl-Witherspoon
PhD
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
No matter what challenges you’ve endured or you're facing, you are worthy, complex, unique, and capable of striving for and achieving your goals and dreams. I’m here to help. I'll approach our interactions from an open, positive, and empowering perspective. I'll value and celebrate your strengths, courage, accomplishments, and limitless potential. I won't discriminate, judge, demean, or dismiss your concerns. I'll show respect for your beliefs, values, perceptions, and worldview as significant representations of your truth. I'll trust you as the expert in your life. You’re not alone. Let’s work together toward achieving your goals.
No matter what challenges you’ve endured or you're facing, you are worthy, complex, unique, and capable of striving for and achieving your goals and dreams. I’m here to help. I'll approach our interactions from an open, positive, and empowering perspective. I'll value and celebrate your strengths, courage, accomplishments, and limitless potential. I won't discriminate, judge, demean, or dismiss your concerns. I'll show respect for your beliefs, values, perceptions, and worldview as significant representations of your truth. I'll trust you as the expert in your life. You’re not alone. Let’s work together toward achieving your goals.
(281) 832-8681 View (281) 832-8681
Photo of Lorena Torres, MA, LPC-S, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lorena Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist with over 12 years of treating children, teens, adults and families. I have experience working with clients coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, defiant behaviors, adjustment, school issues, and family conflict. I work with children and families to identify goals for personal success and work collaboratively to assist them in reaching those goals. I want therapy to be a positive experience for children, teens, and adults.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist with over 12 years of treating children, teens, adults and families. I have experience working with clients coping with trauma, anxiety, depression, defiant behaviors, adjustment, school issues, and family conflict. I work with children and families to identify goals for personal success and work collaboratively to assist them in reaching those goals. I want therapy to be a positive experience for children, teens, and adults.
(832) 639-1822 View (832) 639-1822
Photo of Shamshad Haider - Wellness Restoration Counseling, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wellness Restoration Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
Therapy starts with understanding a person and seeing the world from that person's eyes.
Therapy starts with understanding a person and seeing the world from that person's eyes.
(281) 377-9687 View (281) 377-9687
Photo of Ariana Detert, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ariana Detert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with over 19 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in several areas which include schools, court systems, home health, outpatient mental health centers, and oncology. I have spent my career working in a wide range of areas that include but are not limited to relationships, parent/child dynamics, family conflicts, adolescence, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, caregivers, chronic illness, and health issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with over 19 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in several areas which include schools, court systems, home health, outpatient mental health centers, and oncology. I have spent my career working in a wide range of areas that include but are not limited to relationships, parent/child dynamics, family conflicts, adolescence, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, caregivers, chronic illness, and health issues.
(281) 916-1716 View (281) 916-1716
Photo of Larissa L White, MEd, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larissa L White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
In my professional as well as my personal life, I have observed that nearly every person is facing some sort of difficulty in their lives. Whether personal issues, family issues, parenting difficulties, anger, depression or lack of motivation, everyone struggles at some point in their life. What makes these difficulties potentially overwhelming is that many of us have been taught to keep our feelings to ourselves or maybe some feel as if they don't want to burden family or friends with their problems. Maybe we are fearful of being criticized, misunderstood or judged.
In my professional as well as my personal life, I have observed that nearly every person is facing some sort of difficulty in their lives. Whether personal issues, family issues, parenting difficulties, anger, depression or lack of motivation, everyone struggles at some point in their life. What makes these difficulties potentially overwhelming is that many of us have been taught to keep our feelings to ourselves or maybe some feel as if they don't want to burden family or friends with their problems. Maybe we are fearful of being criticized, misunderstood or judged.
(713) 997-8622 View (713) 997-8622
Photo of Kathryn Gallier, MSW, MBA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Gallier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
I believe it is an honor to be able to work with clients during particularly challenging periods of their lives. I believe God has a purpose and a plan for each of us. Sometimes we need a time of reflection and evaluation of our perspectives to be able to move forward. Seeds of depression and anxiety can be hindering God’s best for our lives. The great news is that these can be overcome.
I believe it is an honor to be able to work with clients during particularly challenging periods of their lives. I believe God has a purpose and a plan for each of us. Sometimes we need a time of reflection and evaluation of our perspectives to be able to move forward. Seeds of depression and anxiety can be hindering God’s best for our lives. The great news is that these can be overcome.
(346) 616-0945 View (346) 616-0945
Photo of Keriomi Timpson-Bey - RiseTherapy.org, LCSW, PhD, CART, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
RiseTherapy.org
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, CART
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
Seeking help during challenging times takes courage and strength; your commitment to taking the first step in your counseling journey is all you need at this moment. Therapy doesn't indicate a sign of failure or weakness; instead, it represents a healthy way to cope with life’s stressors, difficulties, and disruptions. My goal is to help you develop a deeper understanding and awareness of yourself, achieve symptom relief, and address your problems at the root to make meaningful and lasting change. I promise to listen with compassion, empathy, sensitivity, and always support your highest potential.
Seeking help during challenging times takes courage and strength; your commitment to taking the first step in your counseling journey is all you need at this moment. Therapy doesn't indicate a sign of failure or weakness; instead, it represents a healthy way to cope with life’s stressors, difficulties, and disruptions. My goal is to help you develop a deeper understanding and awareness of yourself, achieve symptom relief, and address your problems at the root to make meaningful and lasting change. I promise to listen with compassion, empathy, sensitivity, and always support your highest potential.
(832) 500-8140 View (832) 500-8140
Photo of Cassie Grochett, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassie Grochett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
My scope of practice includes a wide range of issues such as interpersonal trauma, complex trauma, cultural/identity based trauma, gender confirmation, substance addiction, process addictions, intimate partner violence, grief, divorce, sexual violence, depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, co-occurring disorders, dual diagnosis, self-harm behaviors, and relationship concerns.
My scope of practice includes a wide range of issues such as interpersonal trauma, complex trauma, cultural/identity based trauma, gender confirmation, substance addiction, process addictions, intimate partner violence, grief, divorce, sexual violence, depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, co-occurring disorders, dual diagnosis, self-harm behaviors, and relationship concerns.
(281) 374-1734 View (281) 374-1734
Photo of Tara S Petty, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara S Petty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
Hello, glad you have made it here! If you are feeling lost and in need of peace, purpose, belonging, fulfillment, or happiness, I am here to create a safe space for you to obtain it. With a profound commitment to enhancing mental and emotional well-being, I am a licensed clinical social worker with a decade of experience in medical social work, have transitioned into private practice. Throughout my career in diverse healthcare settings, I have developed expertise in life transitions and women's issues, including prenatal, postnatal, and fertility concerns, understanding deeply the intersection of physical and mental health.
Hello, glad you have made it here! If you are feeling lost and in need of peace, purpose, belonging, fulfillment, or happiness, I am here to create a safe space for you to obtain it. With a profound commitment to enhancing mental and emotional well-being, I am a licensed clinical social worker with a decade of experience in medical social work, have transitioned into private practice. Throughout my career in diverse healthcare settings, I have developed expertise in life transitions and women's issues, including prenatal, postnatal, and fertility concerns, understanding deeply the intersection of physical and mental health.
(832) 743-1815 View (832) 743-1815
Photo of L. Michela Giordano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
L. Michela Giordano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
I am bicultural, raised between Italy and the US. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am experienced and passionate about helping clients heal from trauma to better manage stress and anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, and more. I also have experience in and love to help those struggling with religious or spiritual beliefs, OCD/control issues, aging, motherhood, depression, and self esteem. I also support women with sexuality/intimacy challenges.
I am bicultural, raised between Italy and the US. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am experienced and passionate about helping clients heal from trauma to better manage stress and anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, and more. I also have experience in and love to help those struggling with religious or spiritual beliefs, OCD/control issues, aging, motherhood, depression, and self esteem. I also support women with sexuality/intimacy challenges.
(346) 639-2833 View (346) 639-2833
Photo of Max Arzola, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Max Arzola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
I'm the Founder of Empathy First. We are committed to helping people from all walks of life. No matter your personal, spiritual, or social beliefs, or whether your values are traditional or non-conforming; regardless of gender, race, sexuality or economic background, We strive for all to receive the best treatment. We are a compassionate, innovative and creative practice who will support you during your most vulnerable times. We use a dynamic person-centered approach and work at your desired pace. Max is not personally taking new clients, however he clinically supervises clinicians in his practice who currently have availability.
I'm the Founder of Empathy First. We are committed to helping people from all walks of life. No matter your personal, spiritual, or social beliefs, or whether your values are traditional or non-conforming; regardless of gender, race, sexuality or economic background, We strive for all to receive the best treatment. We are a compassionate, innovative and creative practice who will support you during your most vulnerable times. We use a dynamic person-centered approach and work at your desired pace. Max is not personally taking new clients, however he clinically supervises clinicians in his practice who currently have availability.
(346) 472-3686 View (346) 472-3686
Photo of Natasha T. Prier - Interpersonal Wellness LLC, LMSW
Interpersonal Wellness LLC
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
I am an Emotional Support Specialist, who facilitates psychoeducational groups and individual sessions on various topics. I assist clients navigate life in a community (group) setting via telehealth. I specialize in Self-esteem, Grief, Anger Management, Communication Skills and Relationship Issues. If you would like an individual session or to join a community for support in one of the aforementioned areas, from the convenience of your own home, please contact me! I look forward to you joining our group.
I am an Emotional Support Specialist, who facilitates psychoeducational groups and individual sessions on various topics. I assist clients navigate life in a community (group) setting via telehealth. I specialize in Self-esteem, Grief, Anger Management, Communication Skills and Relationship Issues. If you would like an individual session or to join a community for support in one of the aforementioned areas, from the convenience of your own home, please contact me! I look forward to you joining our group.
(832) 536-5952 View (832) 536-5952
Photo of Sherry Herring, MA, LPC, CART, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherry Herring
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
Seeking counseling can be difficult. It can be hard to ask for help, especially when you don't specifically know why you need assistance. If you're reading this profile, you have already taken the first step towards getting help and I commend you for making this important decision. I would like the opportunity to help you learn how to work through obstacles, significantly change negative behaviors and thought processes, and achieve successful outcomes.
Seeking counseling can be difficult. It can be hard to ask for help, especially when you don't specifically know why you need assistance. If you're reading this profile, you have already taken the first step towards getting help and I commend you for making this important decision. I would like the opportunity to help you learn how to work through obstacles, significantly change negative behaviors and thought processes, and achieve successful outcomes.
(832) 462-7686 View (832) 462-7686
Photo of Marrion Turner, MS
Marrion Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
My ideal clients are diverse: BIPOC, military personnel, veterans, adolescents, and adults. They face challenges like trauma, depression, anxiety, or adjustment issues. They seek a therapist who understands their unique experiences, provides culturally sensitive care, and uses Person-Centered and Humanistic approaches to create a non-judgmental therapeutic space. My clients desire empathy, understanding, and guidance on their path toward healing and growth. My specialized training as a Registered Behavior Technician allows me to integrate ABA techniques, enhancing their therapy with evidence-based strategies tailored to their needs.
My ideal clients are diverse: BIPOC, military personnel, veterans, adolescents, and adults. They face challenges like trauma, depression, anxiety, or adjustment issues. They seek a therapist who understands their unique experiences, provides culturally sensitive care, and uses Person-Centered and Humanistic approaches to create a non-judgmental therapeutic space. My clients desire empathy, understanding, and guidance on their path toward healing and growth. My specialized training as a Registered Behavior Technician allows me to integrate ABA techniques, enhancing their therapy with evidence-based strategies tailored to their needs.
(281) 843-5767 View (281) 843-5767
Photo of Kelly Poirot, PhD, LP, LSSP, Psychologist
Kelly Poirot
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LSSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
When your child is struggling, seeking out therapy or an evaluation can be incredibly overwhelming. I am here to walk with you through this process! My areas of expertise include assessing and providing therapy to neurodiverse children/adolescents ages 2-23. I love empowering individuals with symptoms of autism, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, learning disorders, and twice exceptional learners (and their parents!). I worked in a local school district for several years and bring that knowledge with me into sessions to support an individual's emotional and behavioral functioning not only at home, but also at school.
When your child is struggling, seeking out therapy or an evaluation can be incredibly overwhelming. I am here to walk with you through this process! My areas of expertise include assessing and providing therapy to neurodiverse children/adolescents ages 2-23. I love empowering individuals with symptoms of autism, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, learning disorders, and twice exceptional learners (and their parents!). I worked in a local school district for several years and bring that knowledge with me into sessions to support an individual's emotional and behavioral functioning not only at home, but also at school.
(281) 377-0974 View (281) 377-0974
Photo of Sara Tanner, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Tanner
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
I enjoy working and partnering with individuals who seek to enhance their well-being. Dealing with life's many trials can create a confusing environment for us and processing through those emotions can be difficult. I am here to walk with you and assist you through your journey. I am considered a trauma therapist through the life span and particularly work with adults and children struggling with complex PTSD and the effects of trauma. The specific traumas I work with are sexual trauma and childhood trauma. I also have a strong passion for individuals walking through the painful valley of infertility/reproductive trauma.
I enjoy working and partnering with individuals who seek to enhance their well-being. Dealing with life's many trials can create a confusing environment for us and processing through those emotions can be difficult. I am here to walk with you and assist you through your journey. I am considered a trauma therapist through the life span and particularly work with adults and children struggling with complex PTSD and the effects of trauma. The specific traumas I work with are sexual trauma and childhood trauma. I also have a strong passion for individuals walking through the painful valley of infertility/reproductive trauma.
(832) 219-6823 View (832) 219-6823
Photo of Sheri L Sanderson, MA, LPC, NCC, SYMBIS, ASDI, Counselor
Sheri L Sanderson
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, SYMBIS, ASDI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
One cannot pour from an empty cup. Are you impacted by family members with mental health challenges or special needs? Providing for yourself while giving care to your loved ones helps you develop balance for your needs as well as theirs. Let me help you figure out what it takes to refill your cup, so you are available to fill the cup of others. My practice accepts children over 5, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
One cannot pour from an empty cup. Are you impacted by family members with mental health challenges or special needs? Providing for yourself while giving care to your loved ones helps you develop balance for your needs as well as theirs. Let me help you figure out what it takes to refill your cup, so you are available to fill the cup of others. My practice accepts children over 5, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(832) 400-6086 View (832) 400-6086
Photo of Elaijia Eaton, MS, LPC, LPCC, LCMHC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elaijia Eaton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC, LCMHC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
How far have you pushed yourself before you noticed you were preparing to hit a standstill and require help? Had a new baby, job, spouse, or life event? Many clients have expressed anxious tendencies when it appears that they were ready to grow in some capacity. Have you been experiencing increased fear regarding anything? Feeling stuck? That build-up can be the pressure one needs to speak to a therapist. Sometimes life is super busy with all the demands people tackle each day, and non-judgmental spaces to explore thoughts and emotions can often lead to clarity. I am happy to provide that assistance and various methods.
How far have you pushed yourself before you noticed you were preparing to hit a standstill and require help? Had a new baby, job, spouse, or life event? Many clients have expressed anxious tendencies when it appears that they were ready to grow in some capacity. Have you been experiencing increased fear regarding anything? Feeling stuck? That build-up can be the pressure one needs to speak to a therapist. Sometimes life is super busy with all the demands people tackle each day, and non-judgmental spaces to explore thoughts and emotions can often lead to clarity. I am happy to provide that assistance and various methods.
(832) 219-6673 View (832) 219-6673
Photo of Peggy Wright - wRight Insight, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
wRight Insight
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a seasoned, well-rounded therapist? Peggy Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor in the State of Texas. Licensed since 2001, Peggy has extensive experience in the field of domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and relationship issues having worked with victims, abusers, child witnesses, and countless others striving for emotional wellbeing. In addition to being a counselor, Peggy is also Board Certified in Neurofeedback.
Are you looking for a seasoned, well-rounded therapist? Peggy Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Approved Supervisor in the State of Texas. Licensed since 2001, Peggy has extensive experience in the field of domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and relationship issues having worked with victims, abusers, child witnesses, and countless others striving for emotional wellbeing. In addition to being a counselor, Peggy is also Board Certified in Neurofeedback.
(469) 746-5772 View (469) 746-5772
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 77406

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 77406 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
91% Depression
77% Self Esteem
73% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
84% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
81% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 77406 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 77406?

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.