Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Stephanie Ann Jones - Harmony Haven Counseling, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Harmony Haven Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Hi there, I'm Stephanie Jones. I am currently under the supervision of M.K. Kasberg, LPCC-S. I specialize in providing guidance to individuals seeking to enhance their mental well-being, overcome obstacles, and cultivate healthier connections and self-confidence. I appreciate working with individuals and couples who are open to personal growth and willing to embrace techniques that can help shift their mindset from negative thoughts to more positive ones.
Hi there, I'm Stephanie Jones. I am currently under the supervision of M.K. Kasberg, LPCC-S. I specialize in providing guidance to individuals seeking to enhance their mental well-being, overcome obstacles, and cultivate healthier connections and self-confidence. I appreciate working with individuals and couples who are open to personal growth and willing to embrace techniques that can help shift their mindset from negative thoughts to more positive ones.
(614) 810-4987 View (614) 810-4987
Photo of Faith Beddick, Licensed Professional Counselor
Faith Beddick
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
You deserve to live a life that allows you to be who you truly are and release what no longer serves you. Faith will support you in the process of self-discovery. You will work collaboratively to choose goals and find ways that suit you best for achieving your goals. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or stress, there is hope. Often, our troubles feel as if we are walking alone on a dark path. Faith would be honored to join you on this journey, holding the flashlight to help you find your way, then passing you the flashlight when you are ready to continue on your own with a renewed sense of
You deserve to live a life that allows you to be who you truly are and release what no longer serves you. Faith will support you in the process of self-discovery. You will work collaboratively to choose goals and find ways that suit you best for achieving your goals. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or stress, there is hope. Often, our troubles feel as if we are walking alone on a dark path. Faith would be honored to join you on this journey, holding the flashlight to help you find your way, then passing you the flashlight when you are ready to continue on your own with a renewed sense of
(614) 412-8849 View (614) 412-8849
Photo of Ruth E. Friedman - Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, IMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Friedman Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Ruth Friedman established Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, in an effort to provide excellent and affordable counseling services to couples and adult individuals (ages 18+) across Ohio. Ruth has extensive experience counseling spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with infidelity, addiction, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Ruth also works with adults who are coping with the impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and/or challenging relationships.
Ruth Friedman established Friedman Counseling Services, LLC, in an effort to provide excellent and affordable counseling services to couples and adult individuals (ages 18+) across Ohio. Ruth has extensive experience counseling spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with infidelity, addiction, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Ruth also works with adults who are coping with the impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, and/or challenging relationships.
(614) 426-0206 View (614) 426-0206
Photo of Rebekah Fink, LPCC-S
Rebekah Fink
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you suffering from trauma & finding it holding you back from living your true, authentic life? From my experience, I can see how challenging a Borderline Personality Disorder diagnosis can be on a person, & working with someone open to learning new skills to manage it better can be very rewarding! I enjoy working with people who are suffering from anxiety or depressive disorder as I have seen the progress my clients have made in those areas & I love to watch them start to live a more satisfying life. I am here to assist with any life transitions, relationship issues, grief, or OCD/phobias that are preventing you from your goals.
Are you suffering from trauma & finding it holding you back from living your true, authentic life? From my experience, I can see how challenging a Borderline Personality Disorder diagnosis can be on a person, & working with someone open to learning new skills to manage it better can be very rewarding! I enjoy working with people who are suffering from anxiety or depressive disorder as I have seen the progress my clients have made in those areas & I love to watch them start to live a more satisfying life. I am here to assist with any life transitions, relationship issues, grief, or OCD/phobias that are preventing you from your goals.
(380) 201-9270 View (380) 201-9270
Photo of Devin Trevathan - One Recovery Company LLC, LPCC, CSAT, EMDR-tr, M
One Recovery Company LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CSAT, EMDR-tr, M
Verified Verified
2 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 Dani Fisher, CT, LPC Intern
Dani Fisher
LPC Intern, CT
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of where to turn next. Life can be challenging, and sometimes it feels like no matter what you do, things aren't getting better. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or just feel lost, know that you don't have to navigate these difficulties alone.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of where to turn next. Life can be challenging, and sometimes it feels like no matter what you do, things aren't getting better. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or just feel lost, know that you don't have to navigate these difficulties alone.
(380) 230-3757 x702 View (380) 230-3757 x702
Photo of Tiffany Swanson, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Tiffany Swanson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Welcome! Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in your current situation? I am here to help you navigate through life's challenges and support you in finding clarity and peace. With a warm, empathetic approach, I strive to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Welcome! Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in your current situation? I am here to help you navigate through life's challenges and support you in finding clarity and peace. With a warm, empathetic approach, I strive to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
(380) 208-0305 View (380) 208-0305
Photo of Mary K Wright, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary K Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults who are in need of mental health counseling to address life issues of stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, work issues, relationships, sexual issues and family dynamic issues. I enjoy helping individuals learn new coping skills for depression and anxiety. I also specialize with individuals who have trauma and grief and will help you resolve those issues. I especially enjoy working with families and couples in learning how to resolve conflict and improve intimacy, communication and trust issues. My belief is that Life is a journey and at some point, we all need help.
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults who are in need of mental health counseling to address life issues of stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, work issues, relationships, sexual issues and family dynamic issues. I enjoy helping individuals learn new coping skills for depression and anxiety. I also specialize with individuals who have trauma and grief and will help you resolve those issues. I especially enjoy working with families and couples in learning how to resolve conflict and improve intimacy, communication and trust issues. My belief is that Life is a journey and at some point, we all need help.
(614) 702-2581 View (614) 702-2581
Photo of Amy Weller, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Weller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am passionate about trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBQT concerns, personality disorders, and neurodivergence. An ideal client is an individual who has a growth mindset and explores their thoughts and feelings and how they impact their behavior. They may not understand how those thoughts derived from past experiences, but they are willing to open old wounds given the right tools. They feel safe and secure and want to heal through hard work and determination.
I am passionate about trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBQT concerns, personality disorders, and neurodivergence. An ideal client is an individual who has a growth mindset and explores their thoughts and feelings and how they impact their behavior. They may not understand how those thoughts derived from past experiences, but they are willing to open old wounds given the right tools. They feel safe and secure and want to heal through hard work and determination.
(380) 600-8835 View (380) 600-8835
Photo of Brittany Edelbrock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Edelbrock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
I am an Independently Licensed Therapist from Ohio with 4 years of professional work experience. My strongest area of expertise is trauma and helping parents with children of special needs.
I am an Independently Licensed Therapist from Ohio with 4 years of professional work experience. My strongest area of expertise is trauma and helping parents with children of special needs.
(380) 227-3471 View (380) 227-3471
Photo of Joel T Hardin, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, NCC, Counselor
Joel T Hardin
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
(614) 980-0460 View (614) 980-0460
Photo of Heather Nicol, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Nicol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
3 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
Photo of Emanuel Werner, LPCC-S, LICDC
Emanuel Werner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I specialize in treating generalized anxiety, OCD, depression, complex trauma and PTSD, substance and alcohol use, couples & marital issues, grief, major life transitions, vocational/career discernment, and a variety of everyday and lifelong existential questions and realities we all face. Are you depressed and anxious about many things, with sleepless nights and moments of quiet desperation, helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness? Are you searching for answers to questions both known and unknown, looking to share with someone who can validate the reality of suffering in your life & help you find ways to navigate?
I specialize in treating generalized anxiety, OCD, depression, complex trauma and PTSD, substance and alcohol use, couples & marital issues, grief, major life transitions, vocational/career discernment, and a variety of everyday and lifelong existential questions and realities we all face. Are you depressed and anxious about many things, with sleepless nights and moments of quiet desperation, helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness? Are you searching for answers to questions both known and unknown, looking to share with someone who can validate the reality of suffering in your life & help you find ways to navigate?
(380) 600-2836 View (380) 600-2836
Photo of Afton Avalos, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Afton Avalos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You're incredibly insightful and self-aware. You’ve read countless self-help books about healing - your copy of The Body Keeps the Score has been read through so many times it's falling apart. You know your attachment style and can identify the attachment styles of those around you. You know how to label your thoughts as irrational but then don’t know what to do with the actual feelings you’re experiencing. You’re aware of the same patterns that keep coming up for you over and over again, yet you feel powerless to actually change them. You've tried so many different things, yet you’re still feeling anxious, depressed, and confused.
You're incredibly insightful and self-aware. You’ve read countless self-help books about healing - your copy of The Body Keeps the Score has been read through so many times it's falling apart. You know your attachment style and can identify the attachment styles of those around you. You know how to label your thoughts as irrational but then don’t know what to do with the actual feelings you’re experiencing. You’re aware of the same patterns that keep coming up for you over and over again, yet you feel powerless to actually change them. You've tried so many different things, yet you’re still feeling anxious, depressed, and confused.
View
Photo of Jackie L. Savel - Central Ohio Wellness Collective, LISW-S, LPCC-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Central Ohio Wellness Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
There are countless possibilities that may have lead you here - whether life feels like too much or too little; over or underwhelming; in need of more energy or calm; Maybe you don’t know whether you want to focus on the past or present, beginnings or endings – wherever you find yourself, our space and our providers extend a welcome and secure environment to create, edit and sometimes – rewrite your story.
There are countless possibilities that may have lead you here - whether life feels like too much or too little; over or underwhelming; in need of more energy or calm; Maybe you don’t know whether you want to focus on the past or present, beginnings or endings – wherever you find yourself, our space and our providers extend a welcome and secure environment to create, edit and sometimes – rewrite your story.
(614) 662-1374 View (614) 662-1374
Photo of Cassandra Tapia, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Tapia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
I am a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Bachelors of Arts degree in English Literature, with a minor in Rhetoric in Human Rights Narrative, from The Ohio State University in 2011. I am currently a student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program. I am a certified trauma sensitive yoga instructor with 5 years' experience as a yoga teacher and over 10 years as a yoga student.
(380) 205-0144 View (380) 205-0144
Photo of Dawn Miller
Dawn Miller
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
I am a problem solver. I am a supporter. I am an encourager. I will work to help you figure things out so you can feel better as quickly as possible. You set the pace. I have practice for over 18 years and specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in EMDR therapy modality and use it with most clients to achieve amazing and quick results for depression, anxiety, trauma, or negative core beliefs that were put in us from our early years.
I am a problem solver. I am a supporter. I am an encourager. I will work to help you figure things out so you can feel better as quickly as possible. You set the pace. I have practice for over 18 years and specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in EMDR therapy modality and use it with most clients to achieve amazing and quick results for depression, anxiety, trauma, or negative core beliefs that were put in us from our early years.
(614) 662-1784 View (614) 662-1784
Photo of Leah Thornton, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating various populations such as those with Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Adjustment disorders and other life stressors. I also assist with social and self-esteem issues, phobias, and mild-moderate OCD symptoms. In addition, I have experience with childhood disorders including ADHD, ODD, and high-functioning Autism/Asperger's. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and children, and I use an individualized and collaborative approach to treatment.
I specialize in treating various populations such as those with Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Adjustment disorders and other life stressors. I also assist with social and self-esteem issues, phobias, and mild-moderate OCD symptoms. In addition, I have experience with childhood disorders including ADHD, ODD, and high-functioning Autism/Asperger's. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and children, and I use an individualized and collaborative approach to treatment.
(614) 368-0206 View (614) 368-0206
Photo of Aida Diallo, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aida Diallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a licensed Independent Social Worker with nine years of experience in the mental health field. As a client centered therapist, I aim to create a safe space where you can verbalize, process, be truly heard and empowered while becoming the best version of yourself. I have experience in advocacy, management services, outpatient psychotherapy services and I have worked with many different populations as well.
I am a licensed Independent Social Worker with nine years of experience in the mental health field. As a client centered therapist, I aim to create a safe space where you can verbalize, process, be truly heard and empowered while becoming the best version of yourself. I have experience in advocacy, management services, outpatient psychotherapy services and I have worked with many different populations as well.
(614) 635-7969 View (614) 635-7969
Photo of Melissa Stavana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Stavana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Optimism is the foundation of courage.” As a therapist, I strive to help clients find hope. The world may not always present us with rainbows and sunshine, and we must process and name the storms we endure. I knew I wanted to be a therapist when my family and I were enduring multiple storms and found value in having someone outside of my family to talk to about it all. I wanted to help others feel less alone, and to know that their thoughts/feelings/behaviors tied to the storm are likely pretty normal. It’s normal to feel stuck sometimes, and my hope is that our work in counseling lends to you feeling unstuck.
Optimism is the foundation of courage.” As a therapist, I strive to help clients find hope. The world may not always present us with rainbows and sunshine, and we must process and name the storms we endure. I knew I wanted to be a therapist when my family and I were enduring multiple storms and found value in having someone outside of my family to talk to about it all. I wanted to help others feel less alone, and to know that their thoughts/feelings/behaviors tied to the storm are likely pretty normal. It’s normal to feel stuck sometimes, and my hope is that our work in counseling lends to you feeling unstuck.
(380) 228-8723 View (380) 228-8723
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

400+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
91% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Stress
68% Grief
64% Relationship Issues
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
73% Cigna and Evernorth
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% 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.