Therapists in 20813
![Photo of Dr. Emily Danon, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3add0e29-46ae-4c36-ae2c-08a5d217306a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist helping adults navigate major life changes and challenging family or interpersonal relationships. I also specialize in issues related to perinatal mental health, including fertility, pregnancy, and adjusting to parenthood. Often people’s plans for getting pregnant or ideas about how being a parent will feel do not match their lived experience. The differences between these expectations and reality can be painful. My goal in therapy is to help new moms and their partners cope with these challenges and feel better about their transition to parenthood.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist helping adults navigate major life changes and challenging family or interpersonal relationships. I also specialize in issues related to perinatal mental health, including fertility, pregnancy, and adjusting to parenthood. Often people’s plans for getting pregnant or ideas about how being a parent will feel do not match their lived experience. The differences between these expectations and reality can be painful. My goal in therapy is to help new moms and their partners cope with these challenges and feel better about their transition to parenthood.
![Photo of Molly J. McDonald, LCSW-C, LICSW, MBA, CDM, CSAT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/417fefb7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Molly J. McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MBA, CDM, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20813
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
I provide Psychotherapy, Life & Clinical Coaching, Divorce Coaching & Mediation, Financial psychology counseling & expatriate counseling for individuals, couples and families; treatment and intervention for those affected by mood disorders (depression and anxiety), trauma, grief, loss and professional & personal transition. I have lived abroad, experienced numerous cultural, personal, and professional transitions myself which I draw on in my work. My combined background in mental health & business gives me a unique perspective that allows me to work with individuals who are facing challenges in their personal and professional lives.
![Photo of Alicia Abell, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6c27fd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
It can be very helpful to talk to a supportive, experienced professional when facing challenges in your life. My goals as a therapist are to help you understand the source of your struggles, decide what to do with your newfound awareness, and feel better in your day-to-day life.
It can be very helpful to talk to a supportive, experienced professional when facing challenges in your life. My goals as a therapist are to help you understand the source of your struggles, decide what to do with your newfound awareness, and feel better in your day-to-day life.
I have been practicing as a Psychologist in the Bethesda- Chevy Chase area for 35 years. I work with older adolescents and adults in individual and couples counseling. My areas of expertise include relationship issue, depression, stress, anxiety, divorce and separation (and impact on families).
I have been practicing as a Psychologist in the Bethesda- Chevy Chase area for 35 years. I work with older adolescents and adults in individual and couples counseling. My areas of expertise include relationship issue, depression, stress, anxiety, divorce and separation (and impact on families).
![Photo of Karyne Messina, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8d0d90-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karyne Messina
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20813 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When I see a new patient for the first time, I try to assess what he or she wants from life or from what each person is struggling. I do this with individuals or parents so together so we can determine what is best for him or her or their child at the current time. Sometimes people want to work on one problem and then develop a curiosity about how their minds work. Often in those situations, I work more intensely and more frequency to search for what is meaning to people and how they wants to navigate in the world in a freer way.
When I see a new patient for the first time, I try to assess what he or she wants from life or from what each person is struggling. I do this with individuals or parents so together so we can determine what is best for him or her or their child at the current time. Sometimes people want to work on one problem and then develop a curiosity about how their minds work. Often in those situations, I work more intensely and more frequency to search for what is meaning to people and how they wants to navigate in the world in a freer way.
![Photo of Sondra Geller, MA, LPC, LCPAT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ee69fa7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sondra Geller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPAT
Not Verified Not Verified
Bethesda, MD 20813
I am a Diplomate Jungian Analyst, and a LPCAT, Licensed Professional Art Therapist in practice for many years. I work with adult clients ranging in age from their 20's to 80's+. I work with groups and individuals. The framework for my Clinical Practice combines both a Jungian Analytic A approach with a focus on Dream Work and Relational Psychotherapy with Art Therapy. This way of working is appropriate for a wide range of issues and is often transformational.
I am a Diplomate Jungian Analyst, and a LPCAT, Licensed Professional Art Therapist in practice for many years. I work with adult clients ranging in age from their 20's to 80's+. I work with groups and individuals. The framework for my Clinical Practice combines both a Jungian Analytic A approach with a focus on Dream Work and Relational Psychotherapy with Art Therapy. This way of working is appropriate for a wide range of issues and is often transformational.
![Photo of Anna Maria R. Francis, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d37c321-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Discouraged by feelings of anxiety, sadness, or loneliness? Do you have insight into your issues but find yourself repeating the same mistakes? Come meet with me and let's decide if we're a good match. For over 25 years, I have been counseling individuals who feel stuck in familiar, negative patterns. I believe people possess the internal resources to be happier, manage stress better, and feel more satisfied in relationships. Working in a collaborative manner, I will help you tap into your inner wisdom. Together we'll set goals, track your progress, and adjust as we move forward.
Discouraged by feelings of anxiety, sadness, or loneliness? Do you have insight into your issues but find yourself repeating the same mistakes? Come meet with me and let's decide if we're a good match. For over 25 years, I have been counseling individuals who feel stuck in familiar, negative patterns. I believe people possess the internal resources to be happier, manage stress better, and feel more satisfied in relationships. Working in a collaborative manner, I will help you tap into your inner wisdom. Together we'll set goals, track your progress, and adjust as we move forward.
The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family Clinic is a non-profit organization that has been offering the community affordable psychotherapy to individuals and families for over 35 years. Our experienced clinicians help the client devote his or her best thinking and energy to working on self in the broader context of important relationships.
The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family Clinic is a non-profit organization that has been offering the community affordable psychotherapy to individuals and families for over 35 years. Our experienced clinicians help the client devote his or her best thinking and energy to working on self in the broader context of important relationships.
![Photo of Steven Alexander, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdb9f1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Selecting the right therapist is an important, personal decision. You deserve to work with someone who is compassionate and highly skilled in helping to bring about desired changes in your life. In nearly thirty years of clinical experience, I have helped people attain more satisfying personal and family relationships, cope with symptoms of anxiety or depression, and learn to better manage the stress of daily life.
Selecting the right therapist is an important, personal decision. You deserve to work with someone who is compassionate and highly skilled in helping to bring about desired changes in your life. In nearly thirty years of clinical experience, I have helped people attain more satisfying personal and family relationships, cope with symptoms of anxiety or depression, and learn to better manage the stress of daily life.
![Photo of Mamata Hotha - Women's Wellness and Counseling Center (WWCC), LCSW-C, RYT200, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa87a521-14ac-4cda-afe9-cd404f53d155/3/320x400.jpeg)
Women's Wellness and Counseling Center (WWCC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RYT200, RN
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20813 (Online Only)
Maximizing wellness and functionality is our approach at WWCC. Life happens - chronic illness and pain, infertility, divorce, etc. Our goal is to help you adjust to your new 'normal' and to restore your mental health to a place where you can cope and function effectively regardless of circumstances. Our yoga instructors and therapists have a wide range of experience some with nursing backgrounds that help clients understand underlying medical issues that may be their impacting chronic pain, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and other issues.
Maximizing wellness and functionality is our approach at WWCC. Life happens - chronic illness and pain, infertility, divorce, etc. Our goal is to help you adjust to your new 'normal' and to restore your mental health to a place where you can cope and function effectively regardless of circumstances. Our yoga instructors and therapists have a wide range of experience some with nursing backgrounds that help clients understand underlying medical issues that may be their impacting chronic pain, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and other issues.
![Photo of Stephen Rosen, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0bde1e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Would you like to make a change for the better in your life?
Life presents each of us with daily challenges, perhaps in the form of circumstances beyond our control - the loss of a loved one, sudden unemployment, failing health. Or, our difficulties arise from within - anxieties, depression, anger, addictions.
My approach is empathic, client centered and solution-focused. One's ability to navigate mindfully through stressful situations is key to living a more joyful life. I believe we each have the power to live happier lives through conscious choices and practical actions.
For 25 years, I have worked as a therapist and coach, assisting many people find relief from non-productive anxiety and discover their authentic voice.
Would you like to make a change for the better in your life?
Life presents each of us with daily challenges, perhaps in the form of circumstances beyond our control - the loss of a loved one, sudden unemployment, failing health. Or, our difficulties arise from within - anxieties, depression, anger, addictions.
My approach is empathic, client centered and solution-focused. One's ability to navigate mindfully through stressful situations is key to living a more joyful life. I believe we each have the power to live happier lives through conscious choices and practical actions.
For 25 years, I have worked as a therapist and coach, assisting many people find relief from non-productive anxiety and discover their authentic voice.
15 Second Videos
Jessica Daniel
Better State of Mind
Nancy Rabb
Si Meng
![Photo of Peter Aron, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46251e90-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children and teens and their families. I address issues including problematical attachment with parents and/or caregivers, negative self-image, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, oppositionality, poor communication and social skills, acting out behaviors, sibling problems, and difficulties in school. As a therapist, I establish a safe "container" in which to work with children and parents together in order to strengthen a child's positive sense of self, reinforce the family system and bonds of attachment, and promote behavioral and emotional regulation. I work with teachers and school administrators to help children learn and thrive in school
I work with children and teens and their families. I address issues including problematical attachment with parents and/or caregivers, negative self-image, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, oppositionality, poor communication and social skills, acting out behaviors, sibling problems, and difficulties in school. As a therapist, I establish a safe "container" in which to work with children and parents together in order to strengthen a child's positive sense of self, reinforce the family system and bonds of attachment, and promote behavioral and emotional regulation. I work with teachers and school administrators to help children learn and thrive in school
![Photo of Michael A Vigorito, MFT, CGP, CST-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ba2b675-74bf-4e17-a604-e96220bc11fd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michael A Vigorito
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CGP, CST-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20813
How do you know if your sexual behavior is out of control? It's a subjective question that many men unfortunately wait until relationship, occupational or medical consequences accumulate before considering. I believe the most important person to evaluate concerns with regulating sexual behavior is the man experiencing the dilemma. I start with two basic questions: "What is your conflict with your sexual behavior?" and "What is your vision for your sexual health?" Since 2001, I have provided a safe, informed and confidential space for sexual health conversations with heterosexual, gay and bisexual men.
How do you know if your sexual behavior is out of control? It's a subjective question that many men unfortunately wait until relationship, occupational or medical consequences accumulate before considering. I believe the most important person to evaluate concerns with regulating sexual behavior is the man experiencing the dilemma. I start with two basic questions: "What is your conflict with your sexual behavior?" and "What is your vision for your sexual health?" Since 2001, I have provided a safe, informed and confidential space for sexual health conversations with heterosexual, gay and bisexual men.
![Photo of Sierra Silva, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1a7eded-35a3-4297-b8d8-9b554c7d095d/2/320x400.png)
Sierra Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20813 (Online Only)
My passion lies in providing compassionate support to individuals in Maryland or DC who identify as Black, Indigenous, or Person of Color (BIPOC). I understand the unique experiences you may encounter while navigating life's ups and downs and striving to establish meaningful connections. Exploring your sense of self and unlearning toxic lessons can feel completely transformative, but it might also feel overwhelming at times.
My passion lies in providing compassionate support to individuals in Maryland or DC who identify as Black, Indigenous, or Person of Color (BIPOC). I understand the unique experiences you may encounter while navigating life's ups and downs and striving to establish meaningful connections. Exploring your sense of self and unlearning toxic lessons can feel completely transformative, but it might also feel overwhelming at times.
![Photo of Jessica Daniel, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a2ff195-2d35-42f7-9d49-ca94d5842dec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Daniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20813 (Online Only)
As a modern and ambitious woman, you're standing at a pivotal crossroads—ready to break free from the limiting beliefs and generational patterns that have kept you feeling stuck. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression that doesn’t even feel like your own, sensing that it has been passed down and projected onto you by unhealed family members. These feelings often stem from a lack mindset—an inherited belief that you’re not enough or that abundance in all forms isn’t for you. But deep down, you know these old-fashioned ideals, born from a different time and place, no longer serve the vibrant, empowered woman you are.
As a modern and ambitious woman, you're standing at a pivotal crossroads—ready to break free from the limiting beliefs and generational patterns that have kept you feeling stuck. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression that doesn’t even feel like your own, sensing that it has been passed down and projected onto you by unhealed family members. These feelings often stem from a lack mindset—an inherited belief that you’re not enough or that abundance in all forms isn’t for you. But deep down, you know these old-fashioned ideals, born from a different time and place, no longer serve the vibrant, empowered woman you are.
![Photo of Dr. Princess Souvenir - Turntable Counseling, LLC, DBH, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32465410-de36-4203-b094-d985d765e332/1/320x400.png)
Turntable Counseling, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, DBH, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20813
Do you need an out-of-the-box therapist? Are you feeling sad or feel that you have little to no energy or oomph? Or maybe you just feel differently than normal and can't quite explain what's going on? Is life just flat out hard?! We get it, come talk to us! We are not your conventional therapists, and we are invested in you making it through this period of your life. We have a knack for empathizing and assisting real people find real solutions within themselves.
Do you need an out-of-the-box therapist? Are you feeling sad or feel that you have little to no energy or oomph? Or maybe you just feel differently than normal and can't quite explain what's going on? Is life just flat out hard?! We get it, come talk to us! We are not your conventional therapists, and we are invested in you making it through this period of your life. We have a knack for empathizing and assisting real people find real solutions within themselves.
Sometimes, just getting through the day can be very hard. There are so many roles that we play: Perhaps we are working, studying, parenting, teaching, coaching, not to mention shopping, cooking, maintaining a household, sharing life with someone and trying our best to do it all. Am I talking about you?
Sometimes, just getting through the day can be very hard. There are so many roles that we play: Perhaps we are working, studying, parenting, teaching, coaching, not to mention shopping, cooking, maintaining a household, sharing life with someone and trying our best to do it all. Am I talking about you?
![Photo of Bar Lehmann - Better State of Mind, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, BCN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/519e0333-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Better State of Mind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, BCN
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20813
Integrated Mental Wellness is an approach combining traditional approaches to mental health such as talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, medications with other modalities that together more comprehensively support wellbeing. Wellness has many domains including relationships/community, health/diet/physical activity, creativity, meaning/spirituality. This approach addresses a whole person as a unique individual attempting to deal in their own ways with their challenges.
Integrated Mental Wellness is an approach combining traditional approaches to mental health such as talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, medications with other modalities that together more comprehensively support wellbeing. Wellness has many domains including relationships/community, health/diet/physical activity, creativity, meaning/spirituality. This approach addresses a whole person as a unique individual attempting to deal in their own ways with their challenges.
![Photo of Nancy Rabb, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cf3c57d-d2b4-497d-96a2-f618ad78ddd8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy Rabb
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20813
Nancy understands that reaching out for help is difficult when you are hurting and not sure what to do about it. She offers a compassionate ear to listen and support you in finding freedom from your suffering. If you have been fighting with your painful thoughts and feelings, what if it were possible to step outside of that conflict? Nancy will assist you in finding peace and healing by helping you to see your difficulties with new clarity. She will teach you how to open up to your emotions and feel them completely, without giving over control of your choices to them.
Nancy understands that reaching out for help is difficult when you are hurting and not sure what to do about it. She offers a compassionate ear to listen and support you in finding freedom from your suffering. If you have been fighting with your painful thoughts and feelings, what if it were possible to step outside of that conflict? Nancy will assist you in finding peace and healing by helping you to see your difficulties with new clarity. She will teach you how to open up to your emotions and feel them completely, without giving over control of your choices to them.
![Photo of Si Meng, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53150df5-af00-4bdb-9b04-0a1f2ac2e6ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who are motivated to free themselves from past traumas. You have an idea of where you want to be, but you realize that it is extremely hard to get there on your own given the lack of inner strengths, skill set or external support. It is not uncommon that we develop "learned helplessness" in repeated experiences of stress. Yet, the secret of "unstuck" is in understanding how human brain learns new things (i.e., moving beyond the past). My work with many clients has proved that a combination of trauma-informed approaches has been extremely effective in healing traumatized brains.
I work with clients who are motivated to free themselves from past traumas. You have an idea of where you want to be, but you realize that it is extremely hard to get there on your own given the lack of inner strengths, skill set or external support. It is not uncommon that we develop "learned helplessness" in repeated experiences of stress. Yet, the secret of "unstuck" is in understanding how human brain learns new things (i.e., moving beyond the past). My work with many clients has proved that a combination of trauma-informed approaches has been extremely effective in healing traumatized brains.
See more therapy options for 20813
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in 20813
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in 20813 who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
88% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
71% | Coping Skills |
67% | Grief |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | CareFirst |
55% | Aetna |
How Therapists in 20813 see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in 20813?
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.