Photo of Roberto Carlos Martinez - Roberto C. Martinez- Multicultural Career Center, NCC, LCPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roberto C. Martinez- Multicultural Career Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Roberto. I specialize in providing counseling for anxiety, loss, relationship challenges, and trauma with a focus on increasing self-esteem and building onto current resiliency. I am a firm believer that all of us go through tough times in our lives, but also that given the proper therapeutic tools you will meet your mental health goals. Each individual is different and together we will come up with a therapeutic approach to either improve or continue your ability to thrive. I also offer career exploration services. Congratulations on taking the first (and often most difficult step) of seeking mental health services!
Hello! I am Roberto. I specialize in providing counseling for anxiety, loss, relationship challenges, and trauma with a focus on increasing self-esteem and building onto current resiliency. I am a firm believer that all of us go through tough times in our lives, but also that given the proper therapeutic tools you will meet your mental health goals. Each individual is different and together we will come up with a therapeutic approach to either improve or continue your ability to thrive. I also offer career exploration services. Congratulations on taking the first (and often most difficult step) of seeking mental health services!
(703) 991-4948 View (703) 991-4948
Photo of Kimberly Thomas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Has anxiety or depression impacted your sex life? Do you feel like your sexual needs are not being met in your relationship and you’re unsure of how to navigate that with your partner? Or are you experiencing changes with your sexuality, pain during intercourse, libido changes or erectile dysfunction and feel unsure about how to properly cope? Take a deep breath and know that the things that you are experiencing are absolutely normal. It is not uncommon to experience a rush of feelings from shame to sadness to anxiety when discussing sexual changes.
Has anxiety or depression impacted your sex life? Do you feel like your sexual needs are not being met in your relationship and you’re unsure of how to navigate that with your partner? Or are you experiencing changes with your sexuality, pain during intercourse, libido changes or erectile dysfunction and feel unsure about how to properly cope? Take a deep breath and know that the things that you are experiencing are absolutely normal. It is not uncommon to experience a rush of feelings from shame to sadness to anxiety when discussing sexual changes.
(571) 339-0243 View (571) 339-0243
Photo of Anne Brennan Malec, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Anne Brennan Malec
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
Well trained in proven therapeutic techniques, the therapists at Symmetry Counseling adopt a direct, engaged, and active approach. Navigating life’s challenges often entails acquiring new skills. These can be learned and implemented during the course of therapy. Our therapists provide a supportive, empathetic, and hopeful environment. Sessions revolve around pragmatic approaches to strategically address and resolve issues clients bring to therapy. We help you identify problems, understand why past efforts at addressing these problems may have been ineffective, and then develop alternative solutions. Get in touch!
Well trained in proven therapeutic techniques, the therapists at Symmetry Counseling adopt a direct, engaged, and active approach. Navigating life’s challenges often entails acquiring new skills. These can be learned and implemented during the course of therapy. Our therapists provide a supportive, empathetic, and hopeful environment. Sessions revolve around pragmatic approaches to strategically address and resolve issues clients bring to therapy. We help you identify problems, understand why past efforts at addressing these problems may have been ineffective, and then develop alternative solutions. Get in touch!
(703) 884-8768 View (703) 884-8768
Photo of Cynthia Miller, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
I am offering telehealth services only. The purpose of therapy, as opposed to just talking with a friend or family member, is to facilitate personal and professional growth. This growth is typically most needed in the areas of relationships, mood, performance and an overall improved integration of one's identity and values. In order to make growth possible, one must feel safe in an objective, confidential environment. My primary goal is to offer a safe and supportive place for change. Throughout the entire process, I will encourage, guide, challenge and support you in making the changes you deem to be right for you.
I am offering telehealth services only. The purpose of therapy, as opposed to just talking with a friend or family member, is to facilitate personal and professional growth. This growth is typically most needed in the areas of relationships, mood, performance and an overall improved integration of one's identity and values. In order to make growth possible, one must feel safe in an objective, confidential environment. My primary goal is to offer a safe and supportive place for change. Throughout the entire process, I will encourage, guide, challenge and support you in making the changes you deem to be right for you.
(540) 277-9801 View (540) 277-9801
Photo of Megan Green, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
Megan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (VA, SC, FL) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (MD) and the Owner of Prismatic Therapy. She received her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount Universtiy in Arlington, Virginia. Megan has experience in working with clients with anxiety, depression, life transitions, mood disorders, personality disorders, post traumatic stress and more. She has worked in residential treatment for dual diagnosis, intensive outpatient and private practice.
Megan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (VA, SC, FL) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (MD) and the Owner of Prismatic Therapy. She received her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount Universtiy in Arlington, Virginia. Megan has experience in working with clients with anxiety, depression, life transitions, mood disorders, personality disorders, post traumatic stress and more. She has worked in residential treatment for dual diagnosis, intensive outpatient and private practice.
(571) 450-9170 View (571) 450-9170
Photo of Lisa Kelleher, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa Kelleher
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307
Hello! I work with women and men who struggle with feeling unbalanced or lacking joy in their lives. In your early adulthood, this unsettled feeling may be brought on by an interest in self-improvement or finding purpose in life. From mid-life on, it can be brought on by sudden, unexpected, life changes such as divorce, other loss or noticing an absence of joy. I believe we all have the capacity to transform ourselves, yet sometimes we may need someone who can guide us on our path to wellness.
Hello! I work with women and men who struggle with feeling unbalanced or lacking joy in their lives. In your early adulthood, this unsettled feeling may be brought on by an interest in self-improvement or finding purpose in life. From mid-life on, it can be brought on by sudden, unexpected, life changes such as divorce, other loss or noticing an absence of joy. I believe we all have the capacity to transform ourselves, yet sometimes we may need someone who can guide us on our path to wellness.
(703) 940-0977 View (703) 940-0977
Photo of Rachael Johnson, LPC, MA, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
I believe as human beings that we all have times in our lives where we are struggling and feel stuck. This can stem from external factors such as major life changes and/or internal ones where our way of coping with things is no longer working. Therapy is the perfect opportunity to dive inward with a trained professional who can help you grow, implement healthy patterns, and find a sense of empowerment for change. As a licensed professional counselor, I will create an environment where you feel safe, validated, and heard.
I believe as human beings that we all have times in our lives where we are struggling and feel stuck. This can stem from external factors such as major life changes and/or internal ones where our way of coping with things is no longer working. Therapy is the perfect opportunity to dive inward with a trained professional who can help you grow, implement healthy patterns, and find a sense of empowerment for change. As a licensed professional counselor, I will create an environment where you feel safe, validated, and heard.
(571) 559-7184 View (571) 559-7184
Photo of Maria Rheba Estante - Exposure Therapy Designs , Marriage & Family Therapist
Exposure Therapy Designs
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
If someone asked you not to think for 10 minutes how hard would that be? Is overthinking about the “What Ifs” driving you to relentlessly check things over and over again? Are you determined to find certainty in an uncertain world? Do you frequently ask others repeatedly if something or someone is going to be OK? No matter how much you do a task or say a particular thing does peace of mind elude you? Does the compulsion to handwash, re-read, double check, pray, or re-arrange items never provide lasting relief? Do you find yourself burdened by intrusive thoughts that strike against your will and preoccupy your mind for hours a day?
If someone asked you not to think for 10 minutes how hard would that be? Is overthinking about the “What Ifs” driving you to relentlessly check things over and over again? Are you determined to find certainty in an uncertain world? Do you frequently ask others repeatedly if something or someone is going to be OK? No matter how much you do a task or say a particular thing does peace of mind elude you? Does the compulsion to handwash, re-read, double check, pray, or re-arrange items never provide lasting relief? Do you find yourself burdened by intrusive thoughts that strike against your will and preoccupy your mind for hours a day?
(571) 200-3779 View (571) 200-3779
Photo of Nicole Hargraves, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Hargraves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
Are you seeking to make life changes, increase self-awareness and fulfill a positive beginning? My mission is to empower and guide individuals through life transitions, process inner self-conflict, overcome stressful barriers, finding solutions to resolve problems, or simply providing empathy and understanding. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for individuals to express themselves. I bring an unwavering work ethic and a genuine desire to help others establish healthy coping skills and achieve meaningful goals.
Are you seeking to make life changes, increase self-awareness and fulfill a positive beginning? My mission is to empower and guide individuals through life transitions, process inner self-conflict, overcome stressful barriers, finding solutions to resolve problems, or simply providing empathy and understanding. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for individuals to express themselves. I bring an unwavering work ethic and a genuine desire to help others establish healthy coping skills and achieve meaningful goals.
(804) 567-8575 View (804) 567-8575
Photo of Dr. Carey Incledon, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Carey Incledon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307
I consider it a privilege to do the work I do—in fact, helping others heal, grow, and thrive every day brings great meaning to my life. I know from personal experience how life can sometimes feel unbearable. I also know from personal experience what it is like to work closely with a gifted psychologist to create a new perspective and a new life that are even better than before. I am passionate about providing the highest-quality mental health services to each of my clients and would love the opportunity to support you through this time.
I consider it a privilege to do the work I do—in fact, helping others heal, grow, and thrive every day brings great meaning to my life. I know from personal experience how life can sometimes feel unbearable. I also know from personal experience what it is like to work closely with a gifted psychologist to create a new perspective and a new life that are even better than before. I am passionate about providing the highest-quality mental health services to each of my clients and would love the opportunity to support you through this time.
(703) 844-4038 View (703) 844-4038
Photo of Andrea Zalzal Sanderson, MS, LPC, Counselor
Andrea Zalzal Sanderson
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307
At times, we all struggle with the inevitable trials of being human. You may be a parent or partner in a significant relationship struggling with connection, and in need of both practical and emotional support. At times, feelings of anxiety, apathy, and depression arise, and feelings of disconnection and loneliness can take hold. For others, we may be at a crossroads in our life, brought about by divorce, relocation, caregiving for a loved one, or a desire to have a bigger impact in our communities and the world. We may be asking ourselves BIG questions, “what’s next”, “what should I do”, and “what do I want from life”.
At times, we all struggle with the inevitable trials of being human. You may be a parent or partner in a significant relationship struggling with connection, and in need of both practical and emotional support. At times, feelings of anxiety, apathy, and depression arise, and feelings of disconnection and loneliness can take hold. For others, we may be at a crossroads in our life, brought about by divorce, relocation, caregiving for a loved one, or a desire to have a bigger impact in our communities and the world. We may be asking ourselves BIG questions, “what’s next”, “what should I do”, and “what do I want from life”.
(571) 252-5549 View (571) 252-5549
Margaret T Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Thank you for visiting my site. I am licensed in Virginia and Maryland and offer a free 15 minute teletherapy session to help you decide if I am the therapist you are looking for. My clients often come to therapy because they are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and life transitions. During my hospice grad school practicum and the next five years working with a local hospice I helped patients and familes as they encourntered death, loss and bereavement. I honor each individual's worth and inherent dignity and believe that by working together we can face the challenges and difficulties that lay ahead.
Thank you for visiting my site. I am licensed in Virginia and Maryland and offer a free 15 minute teletherapy session to help you decide if I am the therapist you are looking for. My clients often come to therapy because they are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and life transitions. During my hospice grad school practicum and the next five years working with a local hospice I helped patients and familes as they encourntered death, loss and bereavement. I honor each individual's worth and inherent dignity and believe that by working together we can face the challenges and difficulties that lay ahead.
(571) 470-6783 View (571) 470-6783
Photo of Karina Garcia- Multicultural Career Center, MA, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Karina Garcia- Multicultural Career Center
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
I work with clients to develop healthy coping strategies to promote wellness as it relates to the impact of trauma or stressful experiences from the past. Sometimes we need to take a step back and strategize our next move. I will work with you on utilizing your resources, strengths, and skills to overcome challenges and work through setbacks. I also specialize in working with college and graduate students. Congratulations on taking the first (and often most difficult step) of seeking mental health services. The best day to start is today!
I work with clients to develop healthy coping strategies to promote wellness as it relates to the impact of trauma or stressful experiences from the past. Sometimes we need to take a step back and strategize our next move. I will work with you on utilizing your resources, strengths, and skills to overcome challenges and work through setbacks. I also specialize in working with college and graduate students. Congratulations on taking the first (and often most difficult step) of seeking mental health services. The best day to start is today!
(703) 782-5074 View (703) 782-5074
Photo of Jessica Moore, MS, NCC, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Moore
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
As a mental health therapist, it's important for me to understand the needs and goals of my ideal client. When I imagine my ideal client, I envision someone who is looking to make positive changes in their life and is committed to their own personal growth and healing. My ideal client may be struggling with a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship difficulties. They may be feeling stuck or overwhelmed by their emotions, and are looking for guidance and support to help them navigate their challenges and find lasting solutions.
As a mental health therapist, it's important for me to understand the needs and goals of my ideal client. When I imagine my ideal client, I envision someone who is looking to make positive changes in their life and is committed to their own personal growth and healing. My ideal client may be struggling with a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship difficulties. They may be feeling stuck or overwhelmed by their emotions, and are looking for guidance and support to help them navigate their challenges and find lasting solutions.
(571) 200-3870 View (571) 200-3870
Photo of Jewel Green, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jewel Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
You’ve reached a point in your life where you are wondering to yourself, “How did I get here? How can I get the life that I want?" You feel like you “should” be happy, but something is still missing. Perhaps you’ve been in therapy before and already identified negative patterns, but can’t seem to break them.
You’ve reached a point in your life where you are wondering to yourself, “How did I get here? How can I get the life that I want?" You feel like you “should” be happy, but something is still missing. Perhaps you’ve been in therapy before and already identified negative patterns, but can’t seem to break them.
(571) 601-3822 View (571) 601-3822
Photo of Nelva Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nelva Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
I am Nelva, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently living and providing services in Northern Virginia. Raised in Washington, DC, where I completed my studies, including my Masters in Social Work at Howard University.
I am Nelva, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently living and providing services in Northern Virginia. Raised in Washington, DC, where I completed my studies, including my Masters in Social Work at Howard University.
(703) 372-9263 View (703) 372-9263
Photo of Dawn M Eichin, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn M Eichin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
Welcome! If you are reading this, you are at least thinking about bringing healing, growth and change in your life. Maybe you need to forgive yourself, or somebody else. Maybe you want to break a pattern of behavior that no longer suits your needs. Maybe you just need a place to rest, reflect and learn about who you are. Whatever your reason or need, be proud of yourself for taking a step toward something extraordinary. I would be honored to support your journey.
Welcome! If you are reading this, you are at least thinking about bringing healing, growth and change in your life. Maybe you need to forgive yourself, or somebody else. Maybe you want to break a pattern of behavior that no longer suits your needs. Maybe you just need a place to rest, reflect and learn about who you are. Whatever your reason or need, be proud of yourself for taking a step toward something extraordinary. I would be honored to support your journey.
(703) 386-7537 View (703) 386-7537
Photo of William Hollingsworth, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Hollingsworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I strive to create a safe and warm space where therapeutic rapport can thrive. I love working with clients to not only work on symptomology, but to create deep and meaningful change at the identity level. My practice seeks to attack symptoms while creating space for powerful growth. I believe that the heart, mind, and soul are all connected, and that therapy should focus on this intersectionality as a mechanism for change.
As a therapist, I strive to create a safe and warm space where therapeutic rapport can thrive. I love working with clients to not only work on symptomology, but to create deep and meaningful change at the identity level. My practice seeks to attack symptoms while creating space for powerful growth. I believe that the heart, mind, and soul are all connected, and that therapy should focus on this intersectionality as a mechanism for change.
(571) 470-5264 View (571) 470-5264
Photo of Emma Hacker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Hacker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 15 years of experience in behavioral healthcare. I see adults (18+) with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma related disorders. I have collaborated with clients to adjust to life transitions, improve personal relationships, grieve the loss of loved ones, build a more robust social life, manage workplace stressors, build self-esteem, recover from trauma, and achieve a higher quality of life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 15 years of experience in behavioral healthcare. I see adults (18+) with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma related disorders. I have collaborated with clients to adjust to life transitions, improve personal relationships, grieve the loss of loved ones, build a more robust social life, manage workplace stressors, build self-esteem, recover from trauma, and achieve a higher quality of life.
(571) 517-2008 View (571) 517-2008
Photo of Lauren Brown, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307
Hello and welcome. I'm Lauren and I am passionate about helping LGBTQIA+ individuals and their loved ones navigate through life transitions. The majority of my practice focuses on topics related to life transitions, religious abuse, trauma recovery, identity development and family of origin issues. My approach is narrative therapy-based, attachment oriented, culturally sensitive and collaborative. My style in the counseling room is warm, explorative and transparent. NOTE: I do not currently offer couples counseling.
Hello and welcome. I'm Lauren and I am passionate about helping LGBTQIA+ individuals and their loved ones navigate through life transitions. The majority of my practice focuses on topics related to life transitions, religious abuse, trauma recovery, identity development and family of origin issues. My approach is narrative therapy-based, attachment oriented, culturally sensitive and collaborative. My style in the counseling room is warm, explorative and transparent. NOTE: I do not currently offer couples counseling.
(703) 951-4894 View (703) 951-4894
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22307

50+

Average cost per session

$170

Therapists in 22307 who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
85% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
73% Self Esteem
71% Grief
65% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Cigna and Evernorth
64% CareFirst

How Therapists in 22307 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22307?

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.