Photo of Amber Nickerson, LISW-CP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Nickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, I provide a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental platform for clients to openly express their feelings and needs. I am passionate about walking alongside my clients on their journey to manage their life stressors. My goal is for each client to leave their session with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to reach their goals.
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, I provide a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental platform for clients to openly express their feelings and needs. I am passionate about walking alongside my clients on their journey to manage their life stressors. My goal is for each client to leave their session with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to reach their goals.
(803) 310-2923 View (803) 310-2923
Photo of Laine Jones, MA, LPC, Counselor
Laine Jones
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
Life does not stop and it can be hard. There are moments in which people find themselves unsure of how to keep going. It is important at these times for a person to have support and feel seen, heard, and understood. I am passionate about helping people who are hurting, especially adolescents and young adults. I believe that every person is uniquely designed and gifted. I adapt my therapeutic process to meet the needs and goals of each client I work with. I have specific training in the integration of counseling and biblical principals.
Life does not stop and it can be hard. There are moments in which people find themselves unsure of how to keep going. It is important at these times for a person to have support and feel seen, heard, and understood. I am passionate about helping people who are hurting, especially adolescents and young adults. I believe that every person is uniquely designed and gifted. I adapt my therapeutic process to meet the needs and goals of each client I work with. I have specific training in the integration of counseling and biblical principals.
(803) 866-3686 View (803) 866-3686
Photo of Leah Tolan, EdS, LPC-A
Leah Tolan
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, EdS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
Hello! Thank you for visiting my page, I am currently accepting new patients! When you reach out via phone or email, expect a personal response within 24 hours. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, anger management, or navigating relationships, I provide expert guidance to those seeking positive change in their lives. With extensive training in clinical work and a background in research, I can assist you in identifying and overcoming obstacles that may be hindering your personal growth and enjoyment of daily life. Let's work together!
Hello! Thank you for visiting my page, I am currently accepting new patients! When you reach out via phone or email, expect a personal response within 24 hours. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, anger management, or navigating relationships, I provide expert guidance to those seeking positive change in their lives. With extensive training in clinical work and a background in research, I can assist you in identifying and overcoming obstacles that may be hindering your personal growth and enjoyment of daily life. Let's work together!
(803) 676-8939 View (803) 676-8939
Photo of Roni Caw - Roni Caw, PhD, NCC, LPC, CCTP, CSAM, PhD, NCC, LPC, CCTP, CSAM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roni Caw, PhD, NCC, LPC, CCTP, CSAM
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, CCTP, CSAM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
I am an African American male, retired military with 24 service years. I counsel for a variety of emotional and mental disorders that include ADHD, Adjustment, Anxiety, Depression, High Functioning Autism, Grief, PTSD, and Trauma. I counsel children, adolescents, adults, families, Law Enforcement and Military, LGBTQI+ Affirming, marriage, and pre-marital. I have previous experience as a college psychology professor, juvenile correctional officer, residential counselor, substitute teacher, and special education community liaison.
I am an African American male, retired military with 24 service years. I counsel for a variety of emotional and mental disorders that include ADHD, Adjustment, Anxiety, Depression, High Functioning Autism, Grief, PTSD, and Trauma. I counsel children, adolescents, adults, families, Law Enforcement and Military, LGBTQI+ Affirming, marriage, and pre-marital. I have previous experience as a college psychology professor, juvenile correctional officer, residential counselor, substitute teacher, and special education community liaison.
(803) 610-4072 View (803) 610-4072
Photo of Fredric Mau, Mau, LPCS, DMin, BC-NCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fredric Mau
Licensed Professional Counselor, Mau, LPCS, DMin, BC-NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Named Outstanding Counselor by the SC Counseling Association. My approach to counseling is different in three major ways: (1) I focus on solutions in order to help you - this is a positive, future rather than past oriented approach. (2) I work on a brief therapy model which is designed to help you address specific issues in short periods of time, typically 3 to 9 weeks. (3) I believe emotion drives behavior; most therapy focuses on cognitive change, but you can know what you need to do, and still not have it happen. The goal here is to help healthier behaviors and beliefs to become emotionally comfortable habits.
Named Outstanding Counselor by the SC Counseling Association. My approach to counseling is different in three major ways: (1) I focus on solutions in order to help you - this is a positive, future rather than past oriented approach. (2) I work on a brief therapy model which is designed to help you address specific issues in short periods of time, typically 3 to 9 weeks. (3) I believe emotion drives behavior; most therapy focuses on cognitive change, but you can know what you need to do, and still not have it happen. The goal here is to help healthier behaviors and beliefs to become emotionally comfortable habits.
(803) 212-0329 View (803) 212-0329
Photo of Shameria Glover, LPC, Counselor
Shameria Glover
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
I provide a safe, supportive and non judgmental environment that allows you to process your feelings while learning coping skills during your difficult time. I want individuals to feel inner peace, happiness and hope.
I provide a safe, supportive and non judgmental environment that allows you to process your feelings while learning coping skills during your difficult time. I want individuals to feel inner peace, happiness and hope.
(352) 290-6259 View (352) 290-6259
Photo of Lynette Stewart, NCC, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynette Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
It can feel like distress, vulnerability, or loss are all that bring us to counseling. With these, though, I see courage & strength. Maybe you’ve been around the therapy block before and know exactly what you’re looking for. Maybe this is all new for you. Either way, courage brought you here and Fortitude Counseling is all about honoring that courage and partnering with you to strengthen identity, process trauma, and gain momentum where you’re stuck. I believe we all have courage and the "stuff of fortitude" in us. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside us and help us dig deep, find our courage, & let it take root.
It can feel like distress, vulnerability, or loss are all that bring us to counseling. With these, though, I see courage & strength. Maybe you’ve been around the therapy block before and know exactly what you’re looking for. Maybe this is all new for you. Either way, courage brought you here and Fortitude Counseling is all about honoring that courage and partnering with you to strengthen identity, process trauma, and gain momentum where you’re stuck. I believe we all have courage and the "stuff of fortitude" in us. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside us and help us dig deep, find our courage, & let it take root.
(803) 266-1769 View (803) 266-1769
Photo of Katie Castor, MA, LPCA
Katie Castor
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Life can be tough and painful at times, but you don't have to journey alone! Whether you are struggling with anxiety, panic, difficult life circumstances, or relational stress, I can help you make sense of your pain and work toward feeling better. As a counselor, it is my privilege to come alongside you and offer a safe and accepting atmosphere that will empower you toward healing and growth. I particularly enjoy working with college aged women.
Life can be tough and painful at times, but you don't have to journey alone! Whether you are struggling with anxiety, panic, difficult life circumstances, or relational stress, I can help you make sense of your pain and work toward feeling better. As a counselor, it is my privilege to come alongside you and offer a safe and accepting atmosphere that will empower you toward healing and growth. I particularly enjoy working with college aged women.
(803) 353-1822 View (803) 353-1822
Photo of Louis Q Carn - TRiY Counseling Services, LLC, MSW, LISW-CP, (S), Clinical Social Work/Therapist
TRiY Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, (S)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Life happens to all of us, but it's the ability to become stronger and 'bounce back' from life's challenges that is the test of our true strength. Can you adapt well in the face of adversity, depression, anger, anxiety, or stress? Have you experienced any behaviors, feelings, or symptoms at work, school or home that you don't quite understand? We want to work with you to earn your trust as we gain a deeper understanding of your individual needs and help discover what’s keeping you from achieving your goals in life. No matter how hard things get, we want to help you break barriers & overcome obstacles standing in your way. #YOUMATTER
Life happens to all of us, but it's the ability to become stronger and 'bounce back' from life's challenges that is the test of our true strength. Can you adapt well in the face of adversity, depression, anger, anxiety, or stress? Have you experienced any behaviors, feelings, or symptoms at work, school or home that you don't quite understand? We want to work with you to earn your trust as we gain a deeper understanding of your individual needs and help discover what’s keeping you from achieving your goals in life. No matter how hard things get, we want to help you break barriers & overcome obstacles standing in your way. #YOUMATTER
(803) 408-7182 View (803) 408-7182
Photo of Emily Snead, EdS
Emily Snead
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
My clients often express feeling disconnected from themselves and in their relationships. They have thoughts like, "no one will understand" or "what if's" followed by fears of being judged, seen as a burden, or receiving unwanted advice. You're unsure of who to trust, but recognize holding onto these experiences, feelings, and thoughts alone is only becoming more painful, isolating, and heavier. If any of this sounds familiar, you've come to the right place and you're not alone.
My clients often express feeling disconnected from themselves and in their relationships. They have thoughts like, "no one will understand" or "what if's" followed by fears of being judged, seen as a burden, or receiving unwanted advice. You're unsure of who to trust, but recognize holding onto these experiences, feelings, and thoughts alone is only becoming more painful, isolating, and heavier. If any of this sounds familiar, you've come to the right place and you're not alone.
(803) 974-8528 View (803) 974-8528
Photo of Christopher L. Berry, PhD, LPC, MAPC, NCC, AACC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher L. Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MAPC, NCC, AACC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
All of us deserve to savor what life has to offer to the fullest extent possible. Many experience that journey as compromised by difficult transitions or painful circumstances in their lives, threatening to rob them of their joy. These blockages may come from events in the present such as loss of a loved one or a deteriorating relationship; or they may result from earlier events that have left wounds/scars unhealed. We provide individual, group, and family sessions to help create awareness and understanding of how to get back to 'Me'. We explore issues and allow clients to choose to heal mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
All of us deserve to savor what life has to offer to the fullest extent possible. Many experience that journey as compromised by difficult transitions or painful circumstances in their lives, threatening to rob them of their joy. These blockages may come from events in the present such as loss of a loved one or a deteriorating relationship; or they may result from earlier events that have left wounds/scars unhealed. We provide individual, group, and family sessions to help create awareness and understanding of how to get back to 'Me'. We explore issues and allow clients to choose to heal mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
(803) 489-8143 x10 View (803) 489-8143 x10
Photo of Ashley Young, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Waitlist for new clients
It's a privilege to be a part of one's therapeutic process and to bear witness to your successful and positive change. As a therapist, I provide a non judgmental and safe place that allows you to process your feelings, identify healthy coping skills, and maintain an environment that allows us to work together to find your way through difficult times.
It's a privilege to be a part of one's therapeutic process and to bear witness to your successful and positive change. As a therapist, I provide a non judgmental and safe place that allows you to process your feelings, identify healthy coping skills, and maintain an environment that allows us to work together to find your way through difficult times.
(803) 675-7876 View (803) 675-7876
Photo of Jim Brown, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jim Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Psychotherapy can bring a combination of uneasiness and hope. Seeking therapy is a courageous step. My hope is that it is a process in which you will be able to feel safe to express yourself openly and honestly. The goal is to find a “fit” with a therapist in which they will be able to help you with the questions and dilemmas that you are facing. We have the same goal: to get you to the point where you can "fire" me as quickly as possible. I love working with people who are willing to allow another person join them for a season on their journey through a life of healing and becoming the person they were meant to be.
Psychotherapy can bring a combination of uneasiness and hope. Seeking therapy is a courageous step. My hope is that it is a process in which you will be able to feel safe to express yourself openly and honestly. The goal is to find a “fit” with a therapist in which they will be able to help you with the questions and dilemmas that you are facing. We have the same goal: to get you to the point where you can "fire" me as quickly as possible. I love working with people who are willing to allow another person join them for a season on their journey through a life of healing and becoming the person they were meant to be.
(803) 403-0491 View (803) 403-0491
Photo of Taurus D Sanders, LPC, LPCS, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taurus D Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCS, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Life can be complicated and overwhelming at times. In response to difficult situations people often lose sight of themselves, which can create internal conflict, leading to external issues. Integrity Counseling and Wellness provides individual, group, and family counseling to help create awareness and understanding of how to get back to 'Me'. Our approach to the internal conflict includes a holistic perspective that brings about a sense of wholeness from the dis-ease of life's challenges. Change can be an uncomfortable and scary process. With the help of professionals that understand the normalcy of crisis situations, the process of healing, growth, and truth is attainable.
Life can be complicated and overwhelming at times. In response to difficult situations people often lose sight of themselves, which can create internal conflict, leading to external issues. Integrity Counseling and Wellness provides individual, group, and family counseling to help create awareness and understanding of how to get back to 'Me'. Our approach to the internal conflict includes a holistic perspective that brings about a sense of wholeness from the dis-ease of life's challenges. Change can be an uncomfortable and scary process. With the help of professionals that understand the normalcy of crisis situations, the process of healing, growth, and truth is attainable.
(803) 753-4676 View (803) 753-4676
Photo of D'Arion Johnston, EdS, LPCA, CPT
D'Arion Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, EdS, LPCA, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Not accepting new clients
Ever been in a situation where you felt like there was no escape? No where to run. No where to hide? Most importantly no one to talk to? When asked why I wanted to be a therapist, my reason why is for those individuals who feel as though there is nowhere to go. My why is for those who lost sight of happy endings because they have grown up through survival instead of being nurtured. My why is for those who feel trapped in discomfort and suffocated from their anxiety. My why is for you.
Ever been in a situation where you felt like there was no escape? No where to run. No where to hide? Most importantly no one to talk to? When asked why I wanted to be a therapist, my reason why is for those individuals who feel as though there is nowhere to go. My why is for those who lost sight of happy endings because they have grown up through survival instead of being nurtured. My why is for those who feel trapped in discomfort and suffocated from their anxiety. My why is for you.
(803) 805-7585 View (803) 805-7585
Photo of Amanda D Polk - Midlands Behavior Therapy, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Midlands Behavior Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201
Are you living the life that you envisioned when you were growing up? Were you well on your way to building the future you imagined, when all of a sudden, life hit you from out of nowhere and temporarily derailed you? Do you struggle with big emotions that show up at the most unexpected times and result in continuous relational conflict? Do you find yourself struggling to function in various social settings? Do past traumatic events tend to keep you held hostage in your "safe place"? If you answered yes there is hope.
Are you living the life that you envisioned when you were growing up? Were you well on your way to building the future you imagined, when all of a sudden, life hit you from out of nowhere and temporarily derailed you? Do you struggle with big emotions that show up at the most unexpected times and result in continuous relational conflict? Do you find yourself struggling to function in various social settings? Do past traumatic events tend to keep you held hostage in your "safe place"? If you answered yes there is hope.
(803) 805-7803 View (803) 805-7803
Photo of Maryanne Banich Massey, LPC, EdS, MPH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maryanne Banich Massey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
At Guidance, Growth & Grace, my counseling provides the direction to help clients balance their lives. By working with me, clients will be able to realize their true potential and gain freedom from stress, grief and conflict. I have experience in private practice, college counseling, adolescent group home and sexual trauma center settings. My approach to therapy is designed to help clients meet the following needs: *the chance to safely express feelings to reduce anxiety; *approach issues of life, illness and death with support; *learn to develop relationships with humor, dignity and grace.
At Guidance, Growth & Grace, my counseling provides the direction to help clients balance their lives. By working with me, clients will be able to realize their true potential and gain freedom from stress, grief and conflict. I have experience in private practice, college counseling, adolescent group home and sexual trauma center settings. My approach to therapy is designed to help clients meet the following needs: *the chance to safely express feelings to reduce anxiety; *approach issues of life, illness and death with support; *learn to develop relationships with humor, dignity and grace.
(803) 598-1621 View (803) 598-1621
Photo of Germaine Middleton - GLMmer Of Hope Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
GLMmer Of Hope Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201  (Online Only)
If I can help someone along the way then my life's living won't be in vain. Sometimes we can imagine where we want to be but just not quite sure how to get there. Life can throw us curve balls that take us off course. It can be beneficial to have someone to help navigate the rough waters and obstacles in our paths.
If I can help someone along the way then my life's living won't be in vain. Sometimes we can imagine where we want to be but just not quite sure how to get there. Life can throw us curve balls that take us off course. It can be beneficial to have someone to help navigate the rough waters and obstacles in our paths.
(803) 888-4076 View (803) 888-4076
Photo of Asha D Purohit, LISW-CP, MSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Asha D Purohit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, MSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Waitlist for new clients
Emotions can be hard, life can be hard, dealing with trauma, depression and anxiety is hard, dealing with chronic pain is hard. So many things that we have to navigate in life can feel overwhelming and the struggle can feel unwinnable. You don’t have to do it alone! We can work together to make a plan for making sure you have the tools you need to deal with any situation that arises in life, the big and the small and everything in between. I am a compassionate understanding open minded person who approaches mental health treatment through a trauma informed lens.
Emotions can be hard, life can be hard, dealing with trauma, depression and anxiety is hard, dealing with chronic pain is hard. So many things that we have to navigate in life can feel overwhelming and the struggle can feel unwinnable. You don’t have to do it alone! We can work together to make a plan for making sure you have the tools you need to deal with any situation that arises in life, the big and the small and everything in between. I am a compassionate understanding open minded person who approaches mental health treatment through a trauma informed lens.
(803) 258-6499 View (803) 258-6499
Photo of Catherine Bixler, LPC, Counselor
Catherine Bixler
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
You can call me Cathy. Are you stuck in your head, overthinking, and/or experiencing physical symptoms of depression, anxiety or trauma? As we go through the experience of life, we learn things about our environment and how to function within that environment. We are always learning and sometimes our brain solidifies messages that are harmful to our mental health, I want to help you restructure those messages so that they are more accurate or helpful. Additionally, I will assist you in the development of skills to manage strong emotions and finally assist you to form solutions to your problems.
You can call me Cathy. Are you stuck in your head, overthinking, and/or experiencing physical symptoms of depression, anxiety or trauma? As we go through the experience of life, we learn things about our environment and how to function within that environment. We are always learning and sometimes our brain solidifies messages that are harmful to our mental health, I want to help you restructure those messages so that they are more accurate or helpful. Additionally, I will assist you in the development of skills to manage strong emotions and finally assist you to form solutions to your problems.
(803) 784-1399 View (803) 784-1399
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 29201

200+

Average cost per session

$123

Therapists in 29201 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
75% Self Esteem
74% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
72% Stress
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% BlueCross and BlueShield
54% Aetna
51% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 29201 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 29201?

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.