Photo of Elena Pezzuto, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elena Pezzuto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402  (Online Only)
I am open and looking forward to meeting you and discussing your thoughts and concerns which are bringing you into therapy. In our first session, we engage in discussion to help identify your current stressors. I have found the optimum scenario is a person-centered approach to help us find a direction and a meaningful immersion into our work together. Therapy is a sacred practice and process which optimally helps to free us from the weight of our burdensome worries and fears. I believe we can learn to understand these challenges and appreciate the lessons as an opportunity to become more resilient and enthusiastically peaceful!
I am open and looking forward to meeting you and discussing your thoughts and concerns which are bringing you into therapy. In our first session, we engage in discussion to help identify your current stressors. I have found the optimum scenario is a person-centered approach to help us find a direction and a meaningful immersion into our work together. Therapy is a sacred practice and process which optimally helps to free us from the weight of our burdensome worries and fears. I believe we can learn to understand these challenges and appreciate the lessons as an opportunity to become more resilient and enthusiastically peaceful!
(910) 863-8007 View (910) 863-8007
Photo of David Lee Crenshaw, D, Min, LMFT, LCAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Lee Crenshaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, D, Min, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402
I would like to help you with the many stressors that can make it difficult to make decisions and to live life with passion. My background in Marriage and Family Issue, Addictions, and Faith-Based Counseling help me to facilitate the peace of mind that is needed for you to effectively live life and address challenges. These challenges may include anxiety, depression, or addiction in your family. My greatest satisfaction is to help you to restore healing, hope, and balance to your life.
I would like to help you with the many stressors that can make it difficult to make decisions and to live life with passion. My background in Marriage and Family Issue, Addictions, and Faith-Based Counseling help me to facilitate the peace of mind that is needed for you to effectively live life and address challenges. These challenges may include anxiety, depression, or addiction in your family. My greatest satisfaction is to help you to restore healing, hope, and balance to your life.
(910) 479-4376 View (910) 479-4376
Photo of Bridget D Milliken - Family Ties Counseling Services, MA, LPC, LCASA, CSOTP, Counselor
Family Ties Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCASA, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402
I founded Family Ties Counseling Services in 2018 so that I could help others in their time of need. I am compassionate about my work. I meet people where they are and help them with the complexities life sometimes brings their way.
I founded Family Ties Counseling Services in 2018 so that I could help others in their time of need. I am compassionate about my work. I meet people where they are and help them with the complexities life sometimes brings their way.
(910) 294-4201 View (910) 294-4201
Photo of Emily Savard Barlas, MA, LCMHC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Savard Barlas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402
I especially enjoy helping people through life transitions - from young adults adjusting to college to pregnant women and new moms. Adapting to new roles and making changes is exhausting, draining, and can leave you feeling lost and overwhelmed. Together, we can work to help you better manage these changes and integrate new roles - helping you feel empowered and more like yourself.
I especially enjoy helping people through life transitions - from young adults adjusting to college to pregnant women and new moms. Adapting to new roles and making changes is exhausting, draining, and can leave you feeling lost and overwhelmed. Together, we can work to help you better manage these changes and integrate new roles - helping you feel empowered and more like yourself.
(910) 356-9633 View (910) 356-9633
Photo of Richard Brice, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard Brice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402
My name is Richard Brice. My counseling with you will be centered on your being "a whole person" not you being a collection of diagnoses. I will work with you in finding specific strategies that will help you in the treatment of your problems and concerns. Our overall goal will be for you to reach a state of wellness in your life. I am offering you a place of counsel where you can find peace, understanding and knowledge-you will never be judged-you will be respected and accepted.
My name is Richard Brice. My counseling with you will be centered on your being "a whole person" not you being a collection of diagnoses. I will work with you in finding specific strategies that will help you in the treatment of your problems and concerns. Our overall goal will be for you to reach a state of wellness in your life. I am offering you a place of counsel where you can find peace, understanding and knowledge-you will never be judged-you will be respected and accepted.
(910) 493-3794 View (910) 493-3794
Photo of Brenda B Knierim, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda B Knierim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My treatment approach is strength based and client centered. I thoroughly enjoy assiting others in identifying and overcoming current life stressors in order to move forward and create positive change. I work with children and parents in collaboration to treat childhood disorders including ADHD, ODD, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. I also treat adults experiencing similar symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life changes.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My treatment approach is strength based and client centered. I thoroughly enjoy assiting others in identifying and overcoming current life stressors in order to move forward and create positive change. I work with children and parents in collaboration to treat childhood disorders including ADHD, ODD, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. I also treat adults experiencing similar symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life changes.
(910) 506-3310 View (910) 506-3310
Photo of Katie Windham, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Windham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402
Times of difficulty and uncertainty can increase stress, anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors, and can place added strain on relationships. The therapeutic process can help you develop a sense of calming, clarity, flexibility, and resilience. Help is available. You can begin to heal and restore balance in your life. I can provide support and resources for you to develop self-awareness, coping skills, effective communication skills, and healthy boundaries.
Times of difficulty and uncertainty can increase stress, anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors, and can place added strain on relationships. The therapeutic process can help you develop a sense of calming, clarity, flexibility, and resilience. Help is available. You can begin to heal and restore balance in your life. I can provide support and resources for you to develop self-awareness, coping skills, effective communication skills, and healthy boundaries.
(910) 427-5540 View (910) 427-5540
Photo of Rhonda J Holmes, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhonda J Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402
Therapy involves a partnership built upon trust, support, and a non-judgmental approach. I believe each individual has a unique story that deserves to be respected and honored. We all have strengths and abilities, powerful catalysts for resilience and desired change. While my clinical practice relies on research based treatment interventions, I highly value the importance of humor and a no-nonsense, down to earth approach to communication.
Therapy involves a partnership built upon trust, support, and a non-judgmental approach. I believe each individual has a unique story that deserves to be respected and honored. We all have strengths and abilities, powerful catalysts for resilience and desired change. While my clinical practice relies on research based treatment interventions, I highly value the importance of humor and a no-nonsense, down to earth approach to communication.
(910) 779-4238 View (910) 779-4238
Photo of Deborah J Taylor - Deborah J. Taylor, Psy.D., PsyD, Psychologist
Deborah J. Taylor, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402
Our therapeutic experience will be a more interactive one. Whether you want to chat about current stressors, or have made the decision to work seriously on long-term goals for personal improvement in your emotional life, we will work together to determine where best to begin. In addition to working with clients around traditional counseling concerns such as depression, grief, loss, anxiety, stress, and addiction, I also focus on other challenges clients face.
Our therapeutic experience will be a more interactive one. Whether you want to chat about current stressors, or have made the decision to work seriously on long-term goals for personal improvement in your emotional life, we will work together to determine where best to begin. In addition to working with clients around traditional counseling concerns such as depression, grief, loss, anxiety, stress, and addiction, I also focus on other challenges clients face.
(910) 356-9956 View (910) 356-9956
Photo of Amanda E Durham, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCTP
Amanda E Durham
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervis, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402
Not accepting new clients
***Offering counseling for children, adolescents, adults, & couples.***Do you feel as if you have tried everything and nothing is working? Are you struggling to find your way through a difficult situation and don't know where to turn? Are you facing overwhelming challenges in your marriage or relationships? With your children? Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Whether you are facing job issues, relationship conflicts, death of a friend/relative, or other concerns therapy provides you someone who will listen, offer guidance, and offer support as you learn new coping strategies and gain insight.
***Offering counseling for children, adolescents, adults, & couples.***Do you feel as if you have tried everything and nothing is working? Are you struggling to find your way through a difficult situation and don't know where to turn? Are you facing overwhelming challenges in your marriage or relationships? With your children? Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Whether you are facing job issues, relationship conflicts, death of a friend/relative, or other concerns therapy provides you someone who will listen, offer guidance, and offer support as you learn new coping strategies and gain insight.
(910) 407-0503 View (910) 407-0503
Photo of Denise Marie Scearce, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Marie Scearce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402
I believe that everyone has a philosophy for their own success created by their beliefs, thoughts, words and actions. My approach to therapy is utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Strategic approaches. I have over 22 years of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families and in doing so I have come to understand that we can facilitate our own transformations to positive and healthy change. It is my goal to help others restore their sense of peace and happiness. My practice specialties include treatment of depression, anxiety, and coaching in many areas related to relationships. I am currently taking on new clients
I believe that everyone has a philosophy for their own success created by their beliefs, thoughts, words and actions. My approach to therapy is utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Strategic approaches. I have over 22 years of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families and in doing so I have come to understand that we can facilitate our own transformations to positive and healthy change. It is my goal to help others restore their sense of peace and happiness. My practice specialties include treatment of depression, anxiety, and coaching in many areas related to relationships. I am currently taking on new clients
(910) 218-9553 View (910) 218-9553
Photo of Howard S Grotsky, EdD, Psychologist
Howard S Grotsky
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402
After receiving my Doctorate degree from the University of Virginia in 1973, my family and I relocated to Wilmington, NC. I have been in full time private practice since 1981 and an integral part of the psychology community. My personality traits include sensitivity, compassion, and an active sense of humor. Nevertheless, no therapist is right for everyone, and I encourage new patients to have 3-4 sessions with any counselor before judging whether there is a connection. If we connect, great. If not, I am happy to assist patients in finding healthy and appropriate therapists suitable for them.
After receiving my Doctorate degree from the University of Virginia in 1973, my family and I relocated to Wilmington, NC. I have been in full time private practice since 1981 and an integral part of the psychology community. My personality traits include sensitivity, compassion, and an active sense of humor. Nevertheless, no therapist is right for everyone, and I encourage new patients to have 3-4 sessions with any counselor before judging whether there is a connection. If we connect, great. If not, I am happy to assist patients in finding healthy and appropriate therapists suitable for them.
(910) 447-4202 View (910) 447-4202
Photo of Mary Krenzel, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Krenzel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402
Waitlist for new clients
Take a deep breath. How do you feel? Has the stress of life drained your joy, leaving you tired and overwhelmed? Picture yourself filled with energy, peace and stability. Balancing work, family and other life stressors can be difficult and can impact both our mind and body causing pain and suffering. Together we can reduce your stress, balance your mood and find your passion. We may work to improve communication and create deeper connections, process old wounds and cultivate happiness. Now take another deep breath. You can do this.
Take a deep breath. How do you feel? Has the stress of life drained your joy, leaving you tired and overwhelmed? Picture yourself filled with energy, peace and stability. Balancing work, family and other life stressors can be difficult and can impact both our mind and body causing pain and suffering. Together we can reduce your stress, balance your mood and find your passion. We may work to improve communication and create deeper connections, process old wounds and cultivate happiness. Now take another deep breath. You can do this.
(910) 817-4409 View (910) 817-4409
Photo of Michelle Rowan, LPC, LCMHC
Michelle Rowan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402  (Online Only)
Welcome! Mental health is my passion. If you're constantly feeling exhausted, stuck, overwhelmed, unheard, and misunderstood - you've come to the right place. My hope is to give folks a place to safely explore and connect with their authentic self. In sessions I like to engage folks in mindfulness and body-oriented/somatic techniques. I am EMDR trained and enjoy utilizing this tool to help clients move forward with healing. I am empathetic and direct, while helping clients find healing and new ways of coping.
Welcome! Mental health is my passion. If you're constantly feeling exhausted, stuck, overwhelmed, unheard, and misunderstood - you've come to the right place. My hope is to give folks a place to safely explore and connect with their authentic self. In sessions I like to engage folks in mindfulness and body-oriented/somatic techniques. I am EMDR trained and enjoy utilizing this tool to help clients move forward with healing. I am empathetic and direct, while helping clients find healing and new ways of coping.
(910) 586-3446 View (910) 586-3446
Photo of Mitchell Mallard, LCMHC-S, Counselor
Mitchell Mallard
Counselor, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402  (Online Only)
Mitchell Mallard is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina who has 12 years of experience partnering with adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, anger, men’s issues and relationship issues. He completed his Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Charleston Southern University and received his Master of Arts in Counseling from Cornerstone University.
Mitchell Mallard is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina who has 12 years of experience partnering with adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, anger, men’s issues and relationship issues. He completed his Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Charleston Southern University and received his Master of Arts in Counseling from Cornerstone University.
(910) 400-8891 View (910) 400-8891
Photo of David James Bolton, MEd, LMHC , Licensed Professional Counselor
David James Bolton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402
What do most people want? We want peace in the valley! In our relationships, in ourselves. As we move through life, we undoubtedly will experience resistance from others, or have circumstances that catch us off guard and shake our confidence. Anxiety, fear and depression move in, and past failures can have us feeling trapped. Resignation and cynicism zap our energy and happiness. We know there is a better way, but we just can’t seem to find it. In my sessions with you, we will identify and focus on ways to navigate these challenges to restore what has gone missing in your life.
What do most people want? We want peace in the valley! In our relationships, in ourselves. As we move through life, we undoubtedly will experience resistance from others, or have circumstances that catch us off guard and shake our confidence. Anxiety, fear and depression move in, and past failures can have us feeling trapped. Resignation and cynicism zap our energy and happiness. We know there is a better way, but we just can’t seem to find it. In my sessions with you, we will identify and focus on ways to navigate these challenges to restore what has gone missing in your life.
(910) 788-2140 View (910) 788-2140
Photo of Colin B Bergeson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colin B Bergeson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402
Accepting new clients both in person and virtually. Are you or your child struggling with mental health and school? Are you or your child struggling with anticipatory anxiety related to overwhelming workloads, talking to a teacher or coach, or interacting with peers? We all want to feel like we belong. We all want to find our place where we feel safe to be our true selves. Parents, have you been struggling with understanding why your child is struggling with negative behaviors, not listening, or disobeying rules? These are many, but not all, of the many impacts mental health can have on us individually and as a family unit.
Accepting new clients both in person and virtually. Are you or your child struggling with mental health and school? Are you or your child struggling with anticipatory anxiety related to overwhelming workloads, talking to a teacher or coach, or interacting with peers? We all want to feel like we belong. We all want to find our place where we feel safe to be our true selves. Parents, have you been struggling with understanding why your child is struggling with negative behaviors, not listening, or disobeying rules? These are many, but not all, of the many impacts mental health can have on us individually and as a family unit.
(252) 470-4639 View (252) 470-4639
Photo of Gina Zotz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Zotz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28402  (Online Only)
Welcome, I am so glad you are here. Experiencing a loss or trauma can feel alienating and leave you lacking connection. Maybe you have experienced a loss/trauma while also navigating pregnancy, postpartum or infertility. Maybe you are/were military but don't feel supported by the systems in place to "help". You might want to feel different but struggle to navigate the how. Or the opposite you understand the how, you have done lots of therapy and continue to feel like you are not making the progress you wish. Whether you've never been to therapy before or you have tried it before but feel stuck; you are in the right place.
Welcome, I am so glad you are here. Experiencing a loss or trauma can feel alienating and leave you lacking connection. Maybe you have experienced a loss/trauma while also navigating pregnancy, postpartum or infertility. Maybe you are/were military but don't feel supported by the systems in place to "help". You might want to feel different but struggle to navigate the how. Or the opposite you understand the how, you have done lots of therapy and continue to feel like you are not making the progress you wish. Whether you've never been to therapy before or you have tried it before but feel stuck; you are in the right place.
(252) 424-4886 View (252) 424-4886
Photo of Dr. Holly Miller, PhD, NCC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Dr. Holly Miller
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402  (Online Only)
It is exhausting dealing with mental health and wellness issues on your own. The clients I serve seek counseling for a variety of reasons. Some are dealing with depression and anxiety, others are having difficulty finding their way through some of life's rough patches dealing with issues such as adjustment issues, grief, divorce, trauma, or changes in life. Clients who come to counseling are ready for these issues and situations to stop controlling their lives. Clients are ready to find their inner strength, change from negative to positive coping, and work toward having a more positive and healthy life.
It is exhausting dealing with mental health and wellness issues on your own. The clients I serve seek counseling for a variety of reasons. Some are dealing with depression and anxiety, others are having difficulty finding their way through some of life's rough patches dealing with issues such as adjustment issues, grief, divorce, trauma, or changes in life. Clients who come to counseling are ready for these issues and situations to stop controlling their lives. Clients are ready to find their inner strength, change from negative to positive coping, and work toward having a more positive and healthy life.
(828) 623-3104 View (828) 623-3104
Photo of Janice Mann, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Janice Mann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28402
Waitlist for new clients
It is hard to focus on the current moment. It is a challenge to stay attached and connected to your body. There are so many things going on, and all you can experience are images, smells, and feelings of times when you were forced to survive. You may think, "How do I let go" "How do I find connection" There may be times that you lose hours or days, and come to ask yourself, "How did I get here" and "How do I talk about what's going on without feeling like a burden?" There may be times when you feel you cannot connect to others as your life experiences feel too big. You may feel shame in your experiences, and others may not relate to
It is hard to focus on the current moment. It is a challenge to stay attached and connected to your body. There are so many things going on, and all you can experience are images, smells, and feelings of times when you were forced to survive. You may think, "How do I let go" "How do I find connection" There may be times that you lose hours or days, and come to ask yourself, "How did I get here" and "How do I talk about what's going on without feeling like a burden?" There may be times when you feel you cannot connect to others as your life experiences feel too big. You may feel shame in your experiences, and others may not relate to
(910) 210-6160 View (910) 210-6160

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 28402

20+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 28402 who prioritize treating:

87% Anxiety
78% Depression
74% Self Esteem
65% Relationship Issues
61% Trauma and PTSD
61% Coping Skills
61% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Aetna
58% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 28402 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 28402?

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.