Therapists in 20117
![Photo of Mark P. de Villier, MSW, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40af7f44-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals, families and couples struggling with anxiety, affective disorders, anger issues, father - son relationships, oppositional behaviors, gender and sexual identity issues and developmental issues. I focus on the communication within relationships with emphasis on one's feelings, thoughts and behaviors.
I work with individuals, families and couples struggling with anxiety, affective disorders, anger issues, father - son relationships, oppositional behaviors, gender and sexual identity issues and developmental issues. I focus on the communication within relationships with emphasis on one's feelings, thoughts and behaviors.
![Photo of Kate Yeutter - Paws2Heal Mental Health Counseling Services, LPC, CCTP II, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8c30c6e-8f14-43fb-a8e1-f550951722d1/1/320x400.png)
Paws2Heal Mental Health Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP II, NCC
Verified Verified
Middleburg, VA 20117
Exploring therapy is not an easy decision; therefore it is our mission to make therapy as open, comfortable, and effective as possible for each client. The first goal for each individual entering my practice is to establish an environment of comfort and safety. For those interested, therapy animals are available to provide additional support throughout the experience. Each person who enters my practice is embraced as an individual, and the therapeutic experience is tailored specifically to best meet each person's needs.
Exploring therapy is not an easy decision; therefore it is our mission to make therapy as open, comfortable, and effective as possible for each client. The first goal for each individual entering my practice is to establish an environment of comfort and safety. For those interested, therapy animals are available to provide additional support throughout the experience. Each person who enters my practice is embraced as an individual, and the therapeutic experience is tailored specifically to best meet each person's needs.
![Photo of Judith Maria Hawley - Judith Hawley, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1a975ca-a3de-4fb5-99c8-3e86c0118e0b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and thank you for looking over my profile. I am excited to take on new clients virtually or in-person. I believe one of the bravest things a person can do is to take that first step and reach out and ask for help. I offer hope and a safe, collaborative place to explore change and moving forward.
Hello and thank you for looking over my profile. I am excited to take on new clients virtually or in-person. I believe one of the bravest things a person can do is to take that first step and reach out and ask for help. I offer hope and a safe, collaborative place to explore change and moving forward.
![Photo of Katie Kernus, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e676e5c-0ac5-4604-978d-1449d10bb9ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Kernus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. No one's path in life is the same and thus therapy, in my eyes, should not be a cookie cutter approach. Therapy should be tough but rewarding. I specialize in meeting clients where they are at and challenging them to move forward in their future. True growth comes from pushing past your comfort zone to come out stronger on the other side.
Accepting New Clients. No one's path in life is the same and thus therapy, in my eyes, should not be a cookie cutter approach. Therapy should be tough but rewarding. I specialize in meeting clients where they are at and challenging them to move forward in their future. True growth comes from pushing past your comfort zone to come out stronger on the other side.
![Photo of Kate Ashley Lankford, MA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74645a0b-7642-4ecf-99fb-76cd83f35698/2/320x400.jpeg)
There are many reasons people seek mental health care, perhaps they're going through a tough season in life or there has been complex trauma. Regardless of a client's reason for seeking therapy, my primary goal is to create a relationship supported by comfort and safety. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a therapeutic plan that is specifically tailored to their individual needs and goals. For those interested I do offer a therapy animal to sit in on sessions and provide additional support.
There are many reasons people seek mental health care, perhaps they're going through a tough season in life or there has been complex trauma. Regardless of a client's reason for seeking therapy, my primary goal is to create a relationship supported by comfort and safety. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a therapeutic plan that is specifically tailored to their individual needs and goals. For those interested I do offer a therapy animal to sit in on sessions and provide additional support.
![Photo of Lindsay Benedict Brancato, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5063e67c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a psychologist and psychoanalyst who practices in Middleburg, Virginia and in Chevy Chase, Maryland (Friendship Heights), right on the border of Washington, DC. I provide psychological evaluation, psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to kids (ages 12 on up) and professionals. With teens and pre-teens, I have expertise in helping the anxious kid feel comfortable in their own skin. With adults, I have expertise in anxiety, work-life balance, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, self-assertion, sexuality and other difficulties.
I'm a psychologist and psychoanalyst who practices in Middleburg, Virginia and in Chevy Chase, Maryland (Friendship Heights), right on the border of Washington, DC. I provide psychological evaluation, psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to kids (ages 12 on up) and professionals. With teens and pre-teens, I have expertise in helping the anxious kid feel comfortable in their own skin. With adults, I have expertise in anxiety, work-life balance, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, self-assertion, sexuality and other difficulties.
![Photo of Kimberly Miner, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5521939e-d7a1-4df2-aaf1-a7662b12c2ad/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 20 years and am currently providing outpatient psychotherapy for adults. One of the most important parts of therapy is establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship so that you may be heard and truly understood. We will meet together to conduct a comprehensive intake evaluation to assess your needs and concerns and work collaboratively to develop realistic and achievable goals. I use empirically-based treatment strategies and consider it an honor to work with you and to support you during this process.
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 20 years and am currently providing outpatient psychotherapy for adults. One of the most important parts of therapy is establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship so that you may be heard and truly understood. We will meet together to conduct a comprehensive intake evaluation to assess your needs and concerns and work collaboratively to develop realistic and achievable goals. I use empirically-based treatment strategies and consider it an honor to work with you and to support you during this process.
![Photo of Dr. Jennifer Kaufman Walker, PhD, LPC, CFRC, CCTS, CAGCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/809d1413-5a6e-4bdf-b3f5-633c5dc9c4e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Kaufman Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CFRC, CCTS, CAGCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117
I believe that you came across this page for a reason. I know that reaching out for help can be a daunting process that takes a lot of courage. I am here to remind you that you have the strength and courage within you to take that next step!
I believe that you came across this page for a reason. I know that reaching out for help can be a daunting process that takes a lot of courage. I am here to remind you that you have the strength and courage within you to take that next step!
![Photo of Dr. Jenna Budreau, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7d87599-2820-4fc7-b745-6c99ba63dd50/1/320x400.png)
Let’s be honest here, there’s a lot of variability in the quality of therapists out there. I know that finding the right one, someone who will REALLY help, is daunting. You’re overwhelmed by making one more choice, when all you want to do is get better. I’ll do the work hard; & talking with me will be as comfortable as confiding in a dear friend. I work best with determined WOMEN who love making their own way, but sometimes get derailed by their own thoughts, bad relationships or family history. I also love working with MEN who want to understand life, but balk at traditional therapy - and like straight talk as much as support.
Let’s be honest here, there’s a lot of variability in the quality of therapists out there. I know that finding the right one, someone who will REALLY help, is daunting. You’re overwhelmed by making one more choice, when all you want to do is get better. I’ll do the work hard; & talking with me will be as comfortable as confiding in a dear friend. I work best with determined WOMEN who love making their own way, but sometimes get derailed by their own thoughts, bad relationships or family history. I also love working with MEN who want to understand life, but balk at traditional therapy - and like straight talk as much as support.
![Photo of Jenna Budreau, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e58eeecf-d805-4d00-a812-7cac99953727/2/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling stuck or fed up with your current therapist? Let's get real – life can be tough. It’s especially hard on ambitious people, parents & perfectionists who are expected to have it all together. The more successful you are (or are expected to be), the more difficult it is to keep it all together. Add anxiety, depression, & relationship issues – forget it. And the more that you achieve, the harder it becomes to find a therapist of your caliber or solutions that work for your complex issues. But I'm not here to hand out generic advice or quick fixes. I'm here to help you uncover the root of your challenges & build lasting changes.
Feeling stuck or fed up with your current therapist? Let's get real – life can be tough. It’s especially hard on ambitious people, parents & perfectionists who are expected to have it all together. The more successful you are (or are expected to be), the more difficult it is to keep it all together. Add anxiety, depression, & relationship issues – forget it. And the more that you achieve, the harder it becomes to find a therapist of your caliber or solutions that work for your complex issues. But I'm not here to hand out generic advice or quick fixes. I'm here to help you uncover the root of your challenges & build lasting changes.
![Photo of Melissa Hunter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fe39bb6-c221-43ac-b8dd-e3d5cc6fca60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117
Accepting New Clients. Is your teen struggling? It’s hard to be a teen in todays world. They are managing stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and relationships. Sometimes having an outside perspective can help. Helping teens with strategies to help with these important issues is a passion of mine. I also know how important the relationship is between teens and their families. As a parent of two grown children, I know how important this connection is and how challenging it can be as our children become teens.
Accepting New Clients. Is your teen struggling? It’s hard to be a teen in todays world. They are managing stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and relationships. Sometimes having an outside perspective can help. Helping teens with strategies to help with these important issues is a passion of mine. I also know how important the relationship is between teens and their families. As a parent of two grown children, I know how important this connection is and how challenging it can be as our children become teens.
15 Second Videos
Jenna Budreau
Jenna Budreau
Erica Cornelius
![Photo of Meghan Kolcum, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6257f0c8-50f3-48b4-913a-3ef4960cd0f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan Kolcum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Middleburg, VA 20117
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel like you’re floundering, overwhelmed, or burned out, but don’t know why, or where to start? First and foremost, know that you are not alone. I am passionate about helping individuals whether they may be facing uncertainty, navigating transitions, or even the nuances of life. I strive to help you so that you feel equipped to develop self-awareness and cultivate the change that you may seek. By incorporating a safe space and using a non-judgmental stance, I will walk with you.
Do you feel like you’re floundering, overwhelmed, or burned out, but don’t know why, or where to start? First and foremost, know that you are not alone. I am passionate about helping individuals whether they may be facing uncertainty, navigating transitions, or even the nuances of life. I strive to help you so that you feel equipped to develop self-awareness and cultivate the change that you may seek. By incorporating a safe space and using a non-judgmental stance, I will walk with you.
![Photo of Kate Vitolo, LGPC, CSAC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34d9b90d-5d5a-4dc9-b225-d61257fe9be7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you thriving professionally but struggling internally? Have you always been an exceptional student while also being overwhelmed by what that takes out of you? If you have it all together but still struggle with your mental health, I can help. Whether it's anxiety, depression, issues with relationships, or maybe leaning on that glass of wine a bit too much, therapy can help you overcome the issues you may be experiencing.
Are you thriving professionally but struggling internally? Have you always been an exceptional student while also being overwhelmed by what that takes out of you? If you have it all together but still struggle with your mental health, I can help. Whether it's anxiety, depression, issues with relationships, or maybe leaning on that glass of wine a bit too much, therapy can help you overcome the issues you may be experiencing.
![Photo of Karina McGovern Chace, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6f60c8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karina McGovern Chace
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Middleburg, VA 20117
I am a depth psychologist and psychotherapist with a peaceful therapy studio in Purcellville, Virginia. I excel in bereavement, adolescents, military families, and women's issues including fertility. My goal is to provide a sanctuary for you to explore and discover who you authentically are. In this safe space, you will be encouraged to unveil your strengths, and to confidently present the "real you" to the world. My style of therapy is uniquely comfortable, creative, and grounding. I can help you safely work through trauma and confusion related to life changes and identity, helping to clear obstacles in your path.
I am a depth psychologist and psychotherapist with a peaceful therapy studio in Purcellville, Virginia. I excel in bereavement, adolescents, military families, and women's issues including fertility. My goal is to provide a sanctuary for you to explore and discover who you authentically are. In this safe space, you will be encouraged to unveil your strengths, and to confidently present the "real you" to the world. My style of therapy is uniquely comfortable, creative, and grounding. I can help you safely work through trauma and confusion related to life changes and identity, helping to clear obstacles in your path.
![Photo of Laura C Lillicotch - Laura C Lillicotch, LPC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ce76fae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura C Lillicotch, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Middleburg, VA 20117
You are looking for some guidance and direction. You need assistance navigating through difficulties you are having. You want someone who isn't in your family or friend circle to give you perspective.
You are looking for some guidance and direction. You need assistance navigating through difficulties you are having. You want someone who isn't in your family or friend circle to give you perspective.
![Photo of Tim Teague - Real Relationships, LLC, PhD, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45d5acd7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Real Relationships, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Middleburg, VA 20117
For over 35 years, I have been helping individuals find purpose and direction and overcome grief, anxiety and depression; couples prepare for marriage and couples grow from unhappiness to renewed marital satisfaction; and children face the challenges of too much stress as well as teenagers and young adults learn to cope and manage the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood. People often close me because of my extensive Biblical training and Christian values: every person is important; marriage is worth hard work; and children deserve to be well loved and respected.
For over 35 years, I have been helping individuals find purpose and direction and overcome grief, anxiety and depression; couples prepare for marriage and couples grow from unhappiness to renewed marital satisfaction; and children face the challenges of too much stress as well as teenagers and young adults learn to cope and manage the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood. People often close me because of my extensive Biblical training and Christian values: every person is important; marriage is worth hard work; and children deserve to be well loved and respected.
![Photo of Melissa Silagy - Silagy Family Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46b08ac5-33d0-4c38-9902-3674a3931051/3/320x400.jpeg)
Silagy Family Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Middleburg, VA 20117
Silagy Family Counseling is a private mental health practice. Melissa Silagy is a Licensed Professional Counselor offering professional and specialized evaluative and treatment services to a wide variety of patients. She provides a myriad of services for individuals, couples, and families seeking help in any of the following areas: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, marital discord, parent - child conflict, family conflict, trauma, grief and loss. She is a nationally certified trauma therapist specializing in sexual abuse, substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder.
Silagy Family Counseling is a private mental health practice. Melissa Silagy is a Licensed Professional Counselor offering professional and specialized evaluative and treatment services to a wide variety of patients. She provides a myriad of services for individuals, couples, and families seeking help in any of the following areas: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, marital discord, parent - child conflict, family conflict, trauma, grief and loss. She is a nationally certified trauma therapist specializing in sexual abuse, substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Britt Lindon, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e355b1c-5c97-4a74-9a62-28fc91e719cf/2/320x400.png)
Modern relationships are HARD. Maybe you have found it hard to find the right person or have started to question whether the person you are with now could possibly be the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your current marriage or dating situation. You’ve probably made choices or overlooked things that you now regret, yet, here you are. Or, maybe you have a relationship at work with a boss and coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires. Or, maybe you are even so far gone that you are more checked-
Modern relationships are HARD. Maybe you have found it hard to find the right person or have started to question whether the person you are with now could possibly be the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your current marriage or dating situation. You’ve probably made choices or overlooked things that you now regret, yet, here you are. Or, maybe you have a relationship at work with a boss and coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires. Or, maybe you are even so far gone that you are more checked-
![Photo of Dr. Angela M Butler - Grace Assessment & Therapy Services, LLC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1aaa375f-2093-4cc9-9ff9-5a169f59d159/1/320x400.png)
Note: Grace Assessment and Therapy Services would like to welcome Garland Caldwell, M.Ed. Resident in Counseling to our practice! Ms. Caldwell's areas of interest include couples and relationships. She enjoys working with adults at pivotal choice points in their lives. At Grace Assessment and Therapy Services, we specialize in psychological and educational evaluations. Our assessment, diagnostic, and treatment approaches integrate current research with time-tested methods. Our highly trained providers with multiple years of psychological testing experience provide thorough psychological and educational evaluations.
Note: Grace Assessment and Therapy Services would like to welcome Garland Caldwell, M.Ed. Resident in Counseling to our practice! Ms. Caldwell's areas of interest include couples and relationships. She enjoys working with adults at pivotal choice points in their lives. At Grace Assessment and Therapy Services, we specialize in psychological and educational evaluations. Our assessment, diagnostic, and treatment approaches integrate current research with time-tested methods. Our highly trained providers with multiple years of psychological testing experience provide thorough psychological and educational evaluations.
Mary Ann graduated from The George Washington University with her Master's in Counseling and currently does individual therapy with Lifestance Health, both in person and by televisit. She also holds a Master's in Interdisciplinary Studies from George Mason University. Her areas of expertise include PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management and Substance Abuse. Prior to coming to Lifestance, Mary Ann worked for Inova Loudoun Hospital as well as spent 9 years at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. She enjoys gardening, travel and snorkeling as hobbies.
Mary Ann graduated from The George Washington University with her Master's in Counseling and currently does individual therapy with Lifestance Health, both in person and by televisit. She also holds a Master's in Interdisciplinary Studies from George Mason University. Her areas of expertise include PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management and Substance Abuse. Prior to coming to Lifestance, Mary Ann worked for Inova Loudoun Hospital as well as spent 9 years at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. She enjoys gardening, travel and snorkeling as hobbies.
See more therapy options for 20117
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in 20117
30+
Average cost per session
$180
Therapists in 20117 who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Relationship Issues |
60% | Self Esteem |
60% | Women's Issues |
57% | Grief |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
65% | Elevance |
59% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in 20117 see their clients
97% | In Person and Online | |
3% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
92% | Female | |
8% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in 20117?
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
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.
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.
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.