Photo of Katherine Leahey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Leahey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hanover, VA 23069  (Online Only)
Katherine Leahey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from Richmond, Virginia. Katherine believes everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through new roles, experiences, and circumstances as well as understand, process, and reflect on past challenges and traumas. Katherine utilizes a person-centered, trauma informed approach to her work with individuals, families, parents, and adults.
Katherine Leahey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from Richmond, Virginia. Katherine believes everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through new roles, experiences, and circumstances as well as understand, process, and reflect on past challenges and traumas. Katherine utilizes a person-centered, trauma informed approach to her work with individuals, families, parents, and adults.
(804) 315-3381 View (804) 315-3381
Photo of Kaitlyn Nicholson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlyn Nicholson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hanover, VA 23069
Kaitlyn is a Long Island, New York native and recently relocated to the RVA area. Prior to joining the team at Lifestance, Kaitlyn held the position of Director of LICADD’s Open Arms EAP program where she worked to connect clients with appropriate community resources and address a vast array of issues including but not limited to: work-life balance, alcohol & substance use, crisis counseling, stress management, marital/family issues, grief & loss, conflict resolution & parenting skills & support.
Kaitlyn is a Long Island, New York native and recently relocated to the RVA area. Prior to joining the team at Lifestance, Kaitlyn held the position of Director of LICADD’s Open Arms EAP program where she worked to connect clients with appropriate community resources and address a vast array of issues including but not limited to: work-life balance, alcohol & substance use, crisis counseling, stress management, marital/family issues, grief & loss, conflict resolution & parenting skills & support.
(866) 488-2298 View (866) 488-2298
Photo of Michael Ellwood, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Ellwood
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hanover, VA 23069
Dr. Ellwood has been with LifeStance Health Associates since June of 2001. He currently is a Rehabilitation Psychologist with Sheltering Arms Institute primarily associated with the DDAC and Complex Care teams, and previously was affiliated with UVA/Encompass as well as the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Spinal Cord Injury Service. Other previous experience includes an Assistant Professorship of Psychiatry at the Medical College of Virginia. In that position, Dr. Ellwood provided assessments and treatment for geriatric, chronically ill, and pain patients and their families.
Dr. Ellwood has been with LifeStance Health Associates since June of 2001. He currently is a Rehabilitation Psychologist with Sheltering Arms Institute primarily associated with the DDAC and Complex Care teams, and previously was affiliated with UVA/Encompass as well as the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center Spinal Cord Injury Service. Other previous experience includes an Assistant Professorship of Psychiatry at the Medical College of Virginia. In that position, Dr. Ellwood provided assessments and treatment for geriatric, chronically ill, and pain patients and their families.
(804) 352-6934 View (804) 352-6934
Photo of Teresa Endsley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa Endsley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hanover, VA 23069
The counseling relationship to Dr. Endsley is unique where the therapist and client build a relationship built on trust and openness. It is a relationship where the client understands that the therapist is dedicated to the well-being of the client and that positive change is the ultimate goal of the therapy process. Dr. Endsley approaches therapy from a systemic view where the individual is seen as part of an environment, where all behaviors are explainable within their contexts and that understanding patterns assists in understanding issues and clarifying solutions.
The counseling relationship to Dr. Endsley is unique where the therapist and client build a relationship built on trust and openness. It is a relationship where the client understands that the therapist is dedicated to the well-being of the client and that positive change is the ultimate goal of the therapy process. Dr. Endsley approaches therapy from a systemic view where the individual is seen as part of an environment, where all behaviors are explainable within their contexts and that understanding patterns assists in understanding issues and clarifying solutions.
(804) 589-4979 View (804) 589-4979
Photo of Grace Bryan, MSW,  LMSW
Grace Bryan
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hanover, VA 23069
Grace Bryan, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, brings a unique blend of traditional therapeutic methods and creative techniques to her practice at LifeStance Health, serving patients in Virginia. With a background in art, she integrates expressive therapies, play therapy, and sand tray therapy to create a warm and welcoming environment. Grace's approach helps clients explore their feelings and find the most effective ways to open up, ensuring a relaxed and supportive therapeutic process. Grace is passionate about addressing anxiety, ADHD, and childhood behavior issues.
Grace Bryan, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, brings a unique blend of traditional therapeutic methods and creative techniques to her practice at LifeStance Health, serving patients in Virginia. With a background in art, she integrates expressive therapies, play therapy, and sand tray therapy to create a warm and welcoming environment. Grace's approach helps clients explore their feelings and find the most effective ways to open up, ensuring a relaxed and supportive therapeutic process. Grace is passionate about addressing anxiety, ADHD, and childhood behavior issues.
(804) 395-6623 View (804) 395-6623
Photo of Jennifer Sions, BS,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Sions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hanover, VA 23069
Jenn Sions is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia who has been practicing since 2006. Jenn takes an eclectic, person-centered approach to therapy, tailoring methods and theories to what is most appropriate for each individual. She believes the core of therapy is creating a safe, accepting, and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship. This provides a secure space for her to help clients process current and/or past traumas and other difficulties, build on their strengths and coping skills, and evaluate and change unhealthy beliefs, thoughts, and behavior patterns.
Jenn Sions is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia who has been practicing since 2006. Jenn takes an eclectic, person-centered approach to therapy, tailoring methods and theories to what is most appropriate for each individual. She believes the core of therapy is creating a safe, accepting, and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship. This provides a secure space for her to help clients process current and/or past traumas and other difficulties, build on their strengths and coping skills, and evaluate and change unhealthy beliefs, thoughts, and behavior patterns.
(804) 430-6465 View (804) 430-6465
Photo of Nicole Morgan - Commonwealth Clinical Services, LLP, PsyD, Psychologist
Commonwealth Clinical Services, LLP
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hanover, VA 23069
We at CCS work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services for adults, adolescents, and children that focus on trauma and PTSD, depression, grief counseling, parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. We provide therapy services to address: Trauma and PTSD, Military and Veteran Concerns, First Responder Concerns (Law Enforcement, Fire, etc.), Depression and Anxiety, Post-Partum Concerns, Stress Management, Substance Use Issues, Mood Disorders and Daily Life Stressors/Adjustment Issues. We also provide psychological assessments and testing.
We at CCS work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services for adults, adolescents, and children that focus on trauma and PTSD, depression, grief counseling, parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. We provide therapy services to address: Trauma and PTSD, Military and Veteran Concerns, First Responder Concerns (Law Enforcement, Fire, etc.), Depression and Anxiety, Post-Partum Concerns, Stress Management, Substance Use Issues, Mood Disorders and Daily Life Stressors/Adjustment Issues. We also provide psychological assessments and testing.
(804) 451-6766 View (804) 451-6766
Photo of Catherine D Merchut-Kruger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine D Merchut-Kruger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hanover, VA 23069
Hello there! I just wanted to start out by saying how courageous you are for taking the step towards growth in your mental health. Please call me "Cathy" and I wanted you to know that I take your journey very seriously. I provide a safe space where collaborative, empathetic and most importantly, person-centered space is available to you.
Hello there! I just wanted to start out by saying how courageous you are for taking the step towards growth in your mental health. Please call me "Cathy" and I wanted you to know that I take your journey very seriously. I provide a safe space where collaborative, empathetic and most importantly, person-centered space is available to you.
(804) 348-0262 View (804) 348-0262
Photo of Kara Metcalf, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kara Metcalf
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Hanover, VA 23069
Are you experiencing a challenging transition within your relationship? Are you looking for an additional support as you navigate stressors within your relationships? If this is true for you, counseling services may be beneficial. The counseling space offers non judgmental space to process challenges, explore the client and relationship history, and work towards understanding or solutions. My experience ranges from individual to couple and family services utilizing an eclectic approach for individual needs with focuses on play, expressive arts, and Gottman methods for relationships.
Are you experiencing a challenging transition within your relationship? Are you looking for an additional support as you navigate stressors within your relationships? If this is true for you, counseling services may be beneficial. The counseling space offers non judgmental space to process challenges, explore the client and relationship history, and work towards understanding or solutions. My experience ranges from individual to couple and family services utilizing an eclectic approach for individual needs with focuses on play, expressive arts, and Gottman methods for relationships.
(804) 391-0833 View (804) 391-0833
Photo of Danielle Snyder, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hanover, VA 23069
Taking the first step in identifying ways in which you would like to feel differently or aspects of behavior you'd like to change can be difficult. As a trauma-informed licensed professional counselor, I have found that one of the most important components of the therapeutic relationship is creating a nonjudgmental, safe environment that allows for growth and healing to transpire. We are a team that will work together in overcoming challenges you are experiencing and work towards changes you would like to make.
Taking the first step in identifying ways in which you would like to feel differently or aspects of behavior you'd like to change can be difficult. As a trauma-informed licensed professional counselor, I have found that one of the most important components of the therapeutic relationship is creating a nonjudgmental, safe environment that allows for growth and healing to transpire. We are a team that will work together in overcoming challenges you are experiencing and work towards changes you would like to make.
(804) 494-7917 View (804) 494-7917
Photo of Aaron Rowe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aaron Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hanover, VA 23069
Not accepting new clients
Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use, Trauma, and other issues can all hinder our ability to experience peace and fulfillment in life. To look inward and explore the root of suffering is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. If you find yourself in need of support on this journey, I would be honored to accompany you.
Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use, Trauma, and other issues can all hinder our ability to experience peace and fulfillment in life. To look inward and explore the root of suffering is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. If you find yourself in need of support on this journey, I would be honored to accompany you.
(804) 352-6564 View (804) 352-6564
Photo of Pamela L Collins, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela L Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hanover, VA 23069  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with everyday life while relying on your faith to help you on your healing journey? This is an aspect of life many individuals of faith experience when they are striving to rely fully on their beliefs while grappling with anxiety, fear, or uncertainty. If you find yourself in this delicate balance, Balanced Life Therapy Center is tailored to help you integrate your faith with emotional wellness. As a therapist who understands the power of deliverance, I also understand the need for guidance as you create a new normal and find freedom in the life you are destined to live.
Are you dealing with everyday life while relying on your faith to help you on your healing journey? This is an aspect of life many individuals of faith experience when they are striving to rely fully on their beliefs while grappling with anxiety, fear, or uncertainty. If you find yourself in this delicate balance, Balanced Life Therapy Center is tailored to help you integrate your faith with emotional wellness. As a therapist who understands the power of deliverance, I also understand the need for guidance as you create a new normal and find freedom in the life you are destined to live.
(757) 699-5144 View (757) 699-5144
Photo of Ederis Martinez-Cunion - Your Path Counseling Center, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Your Path Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hanover, VA 23069
We work with children, adolescents, adults and families struggling with various challenges including depression, anxiety, grief, self-confidence, trauma and addictions in a variety of settings.
We work with children, adolescents, adults and families struggling with various challenges including depression, anxiety, grief, self-confidence, trauma and addictions in a variety of settings.
(804) 299-4643 View (804) 299-4643

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Patricia Grigoryev, PhD, Psychologist
Patricia Grigoryev
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsville, VA 23116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a broad range of psychological services to adults and adolescents of all ages. I have been a practicing, Licensed Clinical Psychologist since 1997. My approach to therapy and counseling is integrative, meaning I provide a blend of cutting edge, evidence-based therapies and interventions which are matched to the specific problems and the needs of the client. My approach is affirming and open and I am experienced working with people from diverse backgrounds of ethnicity, sexual orientation and religious persuasion. I am committed to helping clients find a true and lasting sense of wholeness and well-being.
I offer a broad range of psychological services to adults and adolescents of all ages. I have been a practicing, Licensed Clinical Psychologist since 1997. My approach to therapy and counseling is integrative, meaning I provide a blend of cutting edge, evidence-based therapies and interventions which are matched to the specific problems and the needs of the client. My approach is affirming and open and I am experienced working with people from diverse backgrounds of ethnicity, sexual orientation and religious persuasion. I am committed to helping clients find a true and lasting sense of wholeness and well-being.
(804) 375-4762 View (804) 375-4762
Photo of Chelsea Stipe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelsea Stipe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chelsea Stipe is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2003. She earned a Master's degree in Professional Counseling and Guidance from New Mexico State University. With a background in wilderness therapy and in crisis stabilization, Chelsea brings creativity and a unique perspective to the therapeutic encounter. Clients are the experts in their own lives, so Chelsea meets each client where they are, addressing the most salient concerns in the therapy session. Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys learning about art, and of course practicing what she learns.
Chelsea Stipe is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2003. She earned a Master's degree in Professional Counseling and Guidance from New Mexico State University. With a background in wilderness therapy and in crisis stabilization, Chelsea brings creativity and a unique perspective to the therapeutic encounter. Clients are the experts in their own lives, so Chelsea meets each client where they are, addressing the most salient concerns in the therapy session. Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys learning about art, and of course practicing what she learns.
(804) 494-4875 View (804) 494-4875
Photo of John H Hamlett, MEd, MDiv, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
John H Hamlett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MDiv, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
I'd like to congratulate you for finding the courage to acknowledge that you have a problem and the need to seek help. Whether you are stressed, can't sleep and completely overwhelmed or you have experienced a major loss. I can help you sort things out and give you some effective strategies for coping with the problems you are facing. I offer a needs-based approach to counseling and help you develop healthy effective strategies for getting your needs met and can teach you how to express your feelings and needs in a nonviolent way. I am a seasoned counselor and an EMDR Certified Therapist who works with trauma and abuse survivors.
I'd like to congratulate you for finding the courage to acknowledge that you have a problem and the need to seek help. Whether you are stressed, can't sleep and completely overwhelmed or you have experienced a major loss. I can help you sort things out and give you some effective strategies for coping with the problems you are facing. I offer a needs-based approach to counseling and help you develop healthy effective strategies for getting your needs met and can teach you how to express your feelings and needs in a nonviolent way. I am a seasoned counselor and an EMDR Certified Therapist who works with trauma and abuse survivors.
(804) 409-0587 View (804) 409-0587
Photo of James Craft, PhD, Psychologist
James Craft
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
J. Randolph Craft is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been practicing since 1997. He received his Doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1995. Randy practices a collaborative approach to treatment incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused therapy. His practice is also informed by Gestalt, Interpersonal, and Buddhist psychological approaches. His main areas of focus include mood disorders, anxiety, personal growth, and life transitions. In his spare time Randy enjoys travel, keeping fit, and going on adventures with his wife.
J. Randolph Craft is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been practicing since 1997. He received his Doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1995. Randy practices a collaborative approach to treatment incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused therapy. His practice is also informed by Gestalt, Interpersonal, and Buddhist psychological approaches. His main areas of focus include mood disorders, anxiety, personal growth, and life transitions. In his spare time Randy enjoys travel, keeping fit, and going on adventures with his wife.
(804) 600-4672 View (804) 600-4672
Photo of Mary Joelle Messerschmidt, LCSW, CLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Joelle Messerschmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, VA 23005  (Online Only)
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page. I am a licensed therapist with over 25 years of experience in the field of counseling. I believe in creating a safe space for clients to work through challenges in life. After a thorough bio-psychosocial perspective and assessment, my services consist of diagnosis, treatment (including psychotherapy and counseling), evaluation, and maintenance of recovery. In addition to providing psychotherapy, I am a certified licensure supervisor to new professionals.
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page. I am a licensed therapist with over 25 years of experience in the field of counseling. I believe in creating a safe space for clients to work through challenges in life. After a thorough bio-psychosocial perspective and assessment, my services consist of diagnosis, treatment (including psychotherapy and counseling), evaluation, and maintenance of recovery. In addition to providing psychotherapy, I am a certified licensure supervisor to new professionals.
(804) 538-3894 View (804) 538-3894
Photo of Keesha Anderson, MEd,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keesha Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Keesha Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2019. Keesha helps her clients by creating a safe and supportive environment for them. She displays empathy and active listening skills and empowers clients to be the best that they can be in their journey of life. Keesha helps clients improve their interpersonal relationships by developing better communication skills, setting healthy boundaries, and understanding relational dynamics. Outside of work, Keesha loves to spend time with her family and friends.
Keesha Anderson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2019. Keesha helps her clients by creating a safe and supportive environment for them. She displays empathy and active listening skills and empowers clients to be the best that they can be in their journey of life. Keesha helps clients improve their interpersonal relationships by developing better communication skills, setting healthy boundaries, and understanding relational dynamics. Outside of work, Keesha loves to spend time with her family and friends.
(804) 966-0045 View (804) 966-0045
Photo of Alicia Gist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Gist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alicia Gist, LCSW Alicia Gist is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia who has been practicing since 2015. She studied at Virginia Commonwealth University for her Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees in Clinical Social Work. Alicia meets her clients where they are, with an open mind and full non-judgmental attitude. Her approach combines CBT techniques to help clients identify negative or disruptive thought patterns with DBT skills to help them learn to cope with distressing thoughts/feelings and interactions with self/others/world around them.
Alicia Gist, LCSW Alicia Gist is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia who has been practicing since 2015. She studied at Virginia Commonwealth University for her Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees in Clinical Social Work. Alicia meets her clients where they are, with an open mind and full non-judgmental attitude. Her approach combines CBT techniques to help clients identify negative or disruptive thought patterns with DBT skills to help them learn to cope with distressing thoughts/feelings and interactions with self/others/world around them.
(804) 455-7786 View (804) 455-7786

See more therapy options for 23069

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 23069

10+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in 23069 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
85% Trauma and PTSD
69% Grief
69% Life Transitions
62% Relationship Issues
54% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
85% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 23069 see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 23069?

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.