Photo of Lisa Swann - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Alexandria, Counselor
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(571) 554-5384 View (571) 554-5384
Photo of Lauren Lock, NCC
Lauren Lock
Resident in Counseling, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
In my practice, I focus on the client and the goals they want to achieve. You will find that I am empathetic, encouraging, non-judgmental and respectful. I’m also very down to earth and feel that counseling is nothing to be afraid of! The gift of self discovery is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. My hope is that the therapeutic journey will lead you toward being the best version of yourself. It is my intention to empower you in your growth process to the degree that you are capable of facing life’s challenges in the future without me.
In my practice, I focus on the client and the goals they want to achieve. You will find that I am empathetic, encouraging, non-judgmental and respectful. I’m also very down to earth and feel that counseling is nothing to be afraid of! The gift of self discovery is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. My hope is that the therapeutic journey will lead you toward being the best version of yourself. It is my intention to empower you in your growth process to the degree that you are capable of facing life’s challenges in the future without me.
(571) 556-3859 View (571) 556-3859
Photo of Kristi Gannon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristi Gannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
Kristi Gannon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both the state of Virginia and Florida. Kristi currently offers telehealth sessions in both of these states, specializing in offering treatment to adults and seniors who are faced with the negative effects of anxiety, depression, anger, relationship issues, ADHD, poor coping skills, gender identity issues, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, and more.
Kristi Gannon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both the state of Virginia and Florida. Kristi currently offers telehealth sessions in both of these states, specializing in offering treatment to adults and seniors who are faced with the negative effects of anxiety, depression, anger, relationship issues, ADHD, poor coping skills, gender identity issues, stress, trauma, PTSD, women’s issues, and more.
(571) 487-8607 View (571) 487-8607
Photo of Shelley Freeman, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Shelley Freeman
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
I help moms thrive without fear, anxiety and overwhelm. My clients struggle as you do. Despite being strong, capable and amazing, life is hard. Even harder really since becoming a mom. When you first come in, you’re struggling to know yourself, inundated with overwhelm, fear, worry and a heavy load. Everyone’s load may look different, but it’s heavy. With EMDR, moms can begin to feel less overwhelmed, less triggered, less anxious and there’s room for more joy!
I help moms thrive without fear, anxiety and overwhelm. My clients struggle as you do. Despite being strong, capable and amazing, life is hard. Even harder really since becoming a mom. When you first come in, you’re struggling to know yourself, inundated with overwhelm, fear, worry and a heavy load. Everyone’s load may look different, but it’s heavy. With EMDR, moms can begin to feel less overwhelmed, less triggered, less anxious and there’s room for more joy!
(703) 952-0407 View (703) 952-0407
Photo of Elena Papathanassiou, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elena Papathanassiou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310
Elena Papathanassiou is an LCSW in Virginia who is practiced in providing therapeutic care to teens and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidality, and the LGBTQIA+ community. She strives to maintain a high level of cultural competency while working with diverse groups of people and sensitivity to the unique struggles of those with intersecting identities. She completed her Bachelor of Arts at the University of Pittsburgh and her Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Elena Papathanassiou is an LCSW in Virginia who is practiced in providing therapeutic care to teens and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidality, and the LGBTQIA+ community. She strives to maintain a high level of cultural competency while working with diverse groups of people and sensitivity to the unique struggles of those with intersecting identities. She completed her Bachelor of Arts at the University of Pittsburgh and her Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University.
(571) 496-8259 View (571) 496-8259
Photo of Sara Duckery, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Duckery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
Therapy enables clients to safely examine painful emotions, false beliefs, and the unhelpful actions that accompany them, all on a foundation of established trust and objective acceptance. It is important that my clients feel their needs are met and they are heard. Clients can develop a better sense of self and improve the quality of their experiences and relationships with others by incorporating insights with tools and strategies for wellness in therapy.
Therapy enables clients to safely examine painful emotions, false beliefs, and the unhelpful actions that accompany them, all on a foundation of established trust and objective acceptance. It is important that my clients feel their needs are met and they are heard. Clients can develop a better sense of self and improve the quality of their experiences and relationships with others by incorporating insights with tools and strategies for wellness in therapy.
(571) 339-0187 View (571) 339-0187
Photo of Jaime Hoyle - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, LCSW
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(703) 544-7353 View (703) 544-7353
Photo of Patrycia Hatten, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrycia Hatten
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
Patrycia Hatten is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 12 years of experience providing services to various populations in the mental health and substance use field. She specializes in anxiety, trauma, grief, anger management, stress management, depression, and finding ways to smooth out those big challenges in life. Patrycia completed her Masters in Clinical Counseling with an emphasis in couples and family therapy at the University of Northern Colorado. She has worked extensively with all ages, with clients ranging from 5-70 years old.
Patrycia Hatten is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 12 years of experience providing services to various populations in the mental health and substance use field. She specializes in anxiety, trauma, grief, anger management, stress management, depression, and finding ways to smooth out those big challenges in life. Patrycia completed her Masters in Clinical Counseling with an emphasis in couples and family therapy at the University of Northern Colorado. She has worked extensively with all ages, with clients ranging from 5-70 years old.
(703) 783-4039 View (703) 783-4039
Photo of Jessica Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310
Jessica Lee is a Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) with more than 2 years of experience working with children, adults, and families who are seeking help in coping with depression, anxiety, stress, self esteem, and life transitions.
Jessica Lee is a Licensed Master's Social Worker (LMSW) with more than 2 years of experience working with children, adults, and families who are seeking help in coping with depression, anxiety, stress, self esteem, and life transitions.
(571) 568-7552 View (571) 568-7552
Photo of Matilde Sarmiento Reyes, MS, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Matilde Sarmiento Reyes
Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
Hello! Welcome to my practice. Hola! Bienvenido/a a mi practica. I am a bilingual psychotherapist with over fifteen years of experience, providing therapy services for individuals with diverse Mental Health conditions in Maryland and Virginia. As a clinician, I strive for therapy to become a safe place for you to discuss your past and current experiences, thoughts, concerns, and life goals. I have great admiration and respect for my clients and their unique life stories: their life experiences are important to understand their process of healing and resilience during treatment with me.
Hello! Welcome to my practice. Hola! Bienvenido/a a mi practica. I am a bilingual psychotherapist with over fifteen years of experience, providing therapy services for individuals with diverse Mental Health conditions in Maryland and Virginia. As a clinician, I strive for therapy to become a safe place for you to discuss your past and current experiences, thoughts, concerns, and life goals. I have great admiration and respect for my clients and their unique life stories: their life experiences are important to understand their process of healing and resilience during treatment with me.
(703) 783-3049 View (703) 783-3049
Photo of Lillian Mae Jenkins, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lillian Mae Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22310
I want to help you to become the best version of yourself and to help you advance to your highest potential. I believe you don’t change your life by changing your life, you change your life by changing the way you think. In other words, changing your perspective on how you respond to life stressors. Your responses will either cause you to be “bitter” or “better". I want to help you understand how your thoughts, feelings and behaviors are constantly interacting and influence one another.
I want to help you to become the best version of yourself and to help you advance to your highest potential. I believe you don’t change your life by changing your life, you change your life by changing the way you think. In other words, changing your perspective on how you respond to life stressors. Your responses will either cause you to be “bitter” or “better". I want to help you understand how your thoughts, feelings and behaviors are constantly interacting and influence one another.
(703) 398-1486 View (703) 398-1486
Photo of Tommy Frye, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tommy Frye
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310
Tommy Frye, PhD, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience in addressing individual issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, coping with traumatic experiences, and decreasing negative behaviors. Tommy has extensive experience with family issues, including conflicts with parents and children, escalated trouble due to financial problems, and substance abuse impact on the whole family. Tommy enjoys counseling couples and feels that it is one of his varied strengths. He is an Army Veteran with ample experience assisting his clients navigate through life's stressors.
Tommy Frye, PhD, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience in addressing individual issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, coping with traumatic experiences, and decreasing negative behaviors. Tommy has extensive experience with family issues, including conflicts with parents and children, escalated trouble due to financial problems, and substance abuse impact on the whole family. Tommy enjoys counseling couples and feels that it is one of his varied strengths. He is an Army Veteran with ample experience assisting his clients navigate through life's stressors.
(571) 568-7720 View (571) 568-7720
Photo of Brian Ede, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Ede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310
Life's journey can rough. Not every path is smooth or easy and many are difficult and even dangerous. There are times we need someone to walk with us; perhaps help us find a new direction. Having someone that understands because they've been there, makes all the difference in the world. Brian Ede is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia, who has 30 years of experience working alongside individuals, couples and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, addiction, life transitions, relationship issues, men's issues, trauma and PTSD.
Life's journey can rough. Not every path is smooth or easy and many are difficult and even dangerous. There are times we need someone to walk with us; perhaps help us find a new direction. Having someone that understands because they've been there, makes all the difference in the world. Brian Ede is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia, who has 30 years of experience working alongside individuals, couples and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, addiction, life transitions, relationship issues, men's issues, trauma and PTSD.
(571) 568-5250 View (571) 568-5250
Photo of Dee Jacobi-Edwards, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dee Jacobi-Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
Dee Jacobi-Edwards is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia and a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice (LISW-CP) in South Carolina who has helped individuals, couples, and families for over 20 years. Dee works with clients 18 to 99 years old. Her clients have presented with issues including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and relationship difficulties. Dee has also helped clients who have experienced fear or isolation caused by COVID-19. She understands that grief, loss, and bereavement do not only occur when someone dies, but also when a job is lost, or poor health occurs.
Dee Jacobi-Edwards is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia and a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice (LISW-CP) in South Carolina who has helped individuals, couples, and families for over 20 years. Dee works with clients 18 to 99 years old. Her clients have presented with issues including anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and relationship difficulties. Dee has also helped clients who have experienced fear or isolation caused by COVID-19. She understands that grief, loss, and bereavement do not only occur when someone dies, but also when a job is lost, or poor health occurs.
(571) 946-7448 View (571) 946-7448
Photo of Tammy Reade, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Reade
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310
I'm Tammy Reade, a licensed professional counselor, having earned my degree from George Mason University in 2020. My path to counseling has been shaped by my personal journey, spanning over 25 years in the field. My diverse experience encompasses working with adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I've held roles such as a child protection worker, juvenile probation officer, advocate for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, foster parent trainer, and jail therapist. Yet, my most meaningful role has been as an adoptive and foster parent for more than 22 years.
I'm Tammy Reade, a licensed professional counselor, having earned my degree from George Mason University in 2020. My path to counseling has been shaped by my personal journey, spanning over 25 years in the field. My diverse experience encompasses working with adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I've held roles such as a child protection worker, juvenile probation officer, advocate for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, foster parent trainer, and jail therapist. Yet, my most meaningful role has been as an adoptive and foster parent for more than 22 years.
(703) 552-5783 x1 View (703) 552-5783 x1
Photo of George Wanke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
George Wanke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310
George Wanke is a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 49 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, from pre-teens to adults. George specializes in treating individuals who are struggling with mood management, thought distress, and behavioral mental health conditions such as ADHD, conduct disorder, or substance abuse issues. George received his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas and was a Family Therapy Training Supervisor for the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry.
George Wanke is a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 49 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, from pre-teens to adults. George specializes in treating individuals who are struggling with mood management, thought distress, and behavioral mental health conditions such as ADHD, conduct disorder, or substance abuse issues. George received his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas and was a Family Therapy Training Supervisor for the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry.
(571) 470-6615 View (571) 470-6615
Photo of Bethany Gravely - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Whether you prefer in-person sessions at our locations or online through telehealth, we've got you covered. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Whether you prefer in-person sessions at our locations or online through telehealth, we've got you covered. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
(703) 936-6509 View (703) 936-6509
Photo of Kristi Gannon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristi Gannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
Kristi Gannon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both the state of Virginia and Florida. Kristi currently offers telehealth sessions only for both of those states. Kristi completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Northern Illinois University and received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University. Kristi has worked with diverse adult populations with different backgrounds throughout her career, including both on an individual basis and with couples.
Kristi Gannon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both the state of Virginia and Florida. Kristi currently offers telehealth sessions only for both of those states. Kristi completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Northern Illinois University and received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University. Kristi has worked with diverse adult populations with different backgrounds throughout her career, including both on an individual basis and with couples.
(571) 570-3656 View (571) 570-3656
Photo of Krista Hale, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krista Hale
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
Krista Hale is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in a variety of settings in the mental health field for 45 years. At the age of 54, she went back to school to earn her master's degree and became a licensed clinician. She is currently offering counseling to individuals, families, and couples via telehealth. Krista enjoys working with clients with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and major life transitions.
Krista Hale is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in a variety of settings in the mental health field for 45 years. At the age of 54, she went back to school to earn her master's degree and became a licensed clinician. She is currently offering counseling to individuals, families, and couples via telehealth. Krista enjoys working with clients with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and major life transitions.
(571) 450-8678 View (571) 450-8678
Photo of Lisa Swann, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Swann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22310
Lisa Swann is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia; has been a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Addiction Counselor II in the District of Columbia for the last 9 years. Lisa is also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Her specialties include depression, suicide ideation, anxiety, complex trauma, PTSD, sexual trauma, substance abuse, support recovery, grief and loss, low self-esteem, chronic pain, and more. Lisa holds a Bachelor’s in Human Development & Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling.
Lisa Swann is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia; has been a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Addiction Counselor II in the District of Columbia for the last 9 years. Lisa is also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Her specialties include depression, suicide ideation, anxiety, complex trauma, PTSD, sexual trauma, substance abuse, support recovery, grief and loss, low self-esteem, chronic pain, and more. Lisa holds a Bachelor’s in Human Development & Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling.
(703) 420-7021 View (703) 420-7021

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22310

60+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 22310 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
93% Depression
81% Trauma and PTSD
81% Stress
75% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 22310 see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22310?

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.