Photo of Suzan Watt, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzan Watt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina with 20+ years of experience. I have assisted clients with a wide range of concerns including Anxiety, Depression, Family/ Parenting Problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults and Children, Faith Based Concerns and Adolescent issues as well as Alcohol and other Drugs of Abuse/ Dependency Concerns.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina with 20+ years of experience. I have assisted clients with a wide range of concerns including Anxiety, Depression, Family/ Parenting Problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults and Children, Faith Based Concerns and Adolescent issues as well as Alcohol and other Drugs of Abuse/ Dependency Concerns.
(803) 274-5768 View (803) 274-5768
Photo of Jill L. McHugh, LISW-CP, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill L. McHugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LMSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Stressed out, trying to balance all that life throws at you while making time for self-care, parenting struggles, job challenges, grief, and more - people pursue therapy for a variety of reasons, but the important thing is that they pursue it and take the first step! I work mainly with motivated adults in leadership roles who want balance, fulfillment, support, guidance, stress management, and strategies to help move through challenges and achieve positive change. I'm direct yet compassionate and nonjudgemental. Therapy is an investment, and I am honored to work with you. I own a private practice - jlmchugh.com. Reach out today!
Stressed out, trying to balance all that life throws at you while making time for self-care, parenting struggles, job challenges, grief, and more - people pursue therapy for a variety of reasons, but the important thing is that they pursue it and take the first step! I work mainly with motivated adults in leadership roles who want balance, fulfillment, support, guidance, stress management, and strategies to help move through challenges and achieve positive change. I'm direct yet compassionate and nonjudgemental. Therapy is an investment, and I am honored to work with you. I own a private practice - jlmchugh.com. Reach out today!
(803) 291-4420 View (803) 291-4420
Photo of Kaye Randall, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaye Randall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Kathleen Randall, MSW, LISW, a clinical therapist specializing in transformative strategies. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or simply seeking personal growth in all areas of your life. I am here to provide support and guide you through solution focused strategies. Our discussions will be grounded in empathy, understanding and empowerment. I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 24 years of experience in private practice. I love helping people discover their innate strengths while sharing new strategies in order to implement and sustain lasting positive change.
Hi! My name is Kathleen Randall, MSW, LISW, a clinical therapist specializing in transformative strategies. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or simply seeking personal growth in all areas of your life. I am here to provide support and guide you through solution focused strategies. Our discussions will be grounded in empathy, understanding and empowerment. I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 24 years of experience in private practice. I love helping people discover their innate strengths while sharing new strategies in order to implement and sustain lasting positive change.
(803) 674-5732 View (803) 674-5732
Photo of Tracey Goldson, MA, LPCA, NCC
Tracey Goldson
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
There is no secret to fully avoiding the challenges of life. We all have faced obstacles that have deeply impacted our lives. The dynamics of our experiences have the potential to make us victorious or victims over our lives. Sometimes our life plans don’t pan out and we lose trust in our future and ability to move forward. The disappointment of people, idea of expectation, and complicated family dynamics can make life hard. If you’re looking for someone to help you navigate your feelings, experiences, and goals; together we can explore parts of your journey that you desire to change through strategy, truth and accountability.
There is no secret to fully avoiding the challenges of life. We all have faced obstacles that have deeply impacted our lives. The dynamics of our experiences have the potential to make us victorious or victims over our lives. Sometimes our life plans don’t pan out and we lose trust in our future and ability to move forward. The disappointment of people, idea of expectation, and complicated family dynamics can make life hard. If you’re looking for someone to help you navigate your feelings, experiences, and goals; together we can explore parts of your journey that you desire to change through strategy, truth and accountability.
(803) 991-4906 View (803) 991-4906
Photo of John Greco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm John, a licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience working with children, adults, and families. I hold a master’s degree in social work from the University of South Carolina and specialize in working with folks who are looking to process, overcome, and heal from the challenging experiences brought on by life.
Hi! I'm John, a licensed Clinical Social Worker with many years of experience working with children, adults, and families. I hold a master’s degree in social work from the University of South Carolina and specialize in working with folks who are looking to process, overcome, and heal from the challenging experiences brought on by life.
(803) 974-8339 View (803) 974-8339
Photo of Celita Hastie, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celita Hastie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
I love hearing people's stories and finding out how they got to where they are today. I have used this passion for the past 20 years to help a diverse range of clients with diverse needs. I have spent many years working with adolescents and love working with them, but I also enjoy the complexities of adulthood and helping adults process previous events and work on skills needed to move forward. I strive to create a safe space where everyone feels safe and supported so they can share their life experiences. We will work together to create the capacity for healthy relationships, better communication, and understanding ourselves.
I love hearing people's stories and finding out how they got to where they are today. I have used this passion for the past 20 years to help a diverse range of clients with diverse needs. I have spent many years working with adolescents and love working with them, but I also enjoy the complexities of adulthood and helping adults process previous events and work on skills needed to move forward. I strive to create a safe space where everyone feels safe and supported so they can share their life experiences. We will work together to create the capacity for healthy relationships, better communication, and understanding ourselves.
(803) 921-3169 View (803) 921-3169
Photo of Karina Williams, LISW-CP, LCSW, FNS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karina Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LCSW, FNS
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Welcome, glad you're here! Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. Creating a trusting environment for you is paramount. I am passionate about helping people feel safe, validated, and heard. This is a collaborative experience where we'll examine relationships and communication, increase self-compassion and emotional regulation, and develop insights into your beliefs and behaviors. We can also explore how the body’s internal multi-system mode of communication influences health and comprehensive wellness. I want to help you feel empowered, live your most satisfying life, and be the best version of yourself.
Welcome, glad you're here! Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. Creating a trusting environment for you is paramount. I am passionate about helping people feel safe, validated, and heard. This is a collaborative experience where we'll examine relationships and communication, increase self-compassion and emotional regulation, and develop insights into your beliefs and behaviors. We can also explore how the body’s internal multi-system mode of communication influences health and comprehensive wellness. I want to help you feel empowered, live your most satisfying life, and be the best version of yourself.
(201) 689-5586 View (201) 689-5586
Photo of Dr. Charlene Moore-Peterson, EdD, LPC, CPCS, LPCS Ca, GCDF, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Charlene Moore-Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS, LPCS Ca, GCDF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or general problems? I specialize in depression, child/adolescent, and relational challenges. I strive to provide a safe and open-minded environment as clients process their feelings and work towards their goals. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight to inner issues that are contributing to their external issues. I encourage clients to think outside the box and discover information toward changing their lives during their therapeutic journey. Together we will work to make changes that are healthy for the MIND, BODY, and SPIRIT!
Are you having trouble with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or general problems? I specialize in depression, child/adolescent, and relational challenges. I strive to provide a safe and open-minded environment as clients process their feelings and work towards their goals. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight to inner issues that are contributing to their external issues. I encourage clients to think outside the box and discover information toward changing their lives during their therapeutic journey. Together we will work to make changes that are healthy for the MIND, BODY, and SPIRIT!
(803) 335-5906 View (803) 335-5906
Photo of Sarah-Rachelle Chaboya Kunce, LMHC, LPC, MS, Counselor
Sarah-Rachelle Chaboya Kunce
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
I believe that you can create the life you want to live. No matter what situation you find yourself in, there is hope and I feel that I can help. I offer a professional, nurturing, knowledgable, supportive, guidance designed to help you through this time to a happier, healthier place. I certainly don't have all the answers and won't pretend to. However, I'm confident I can help you find a better you, a better life. I look forward to hearing your story!
I believe that you can create the life you want to live. No matter what situation you find yourself in, there is hope and I feel that I can help. I offer a professional, nurturing, knowledgable, supportive, guidance designed to help you through this time to a happier, healthier place. I certainly don't have all the answers and won't pretend to. However, I'm confident I can help you find a better you, a better life. I look forward to hearing your story!
(803) 859-5184 View (803) 859-5184
Photo of Devorah Marrus, EdS, LPC-A, NCC
Devorah Marrus
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , EdS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
One of my favorite quotes is "There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in." It is often through our struggles and life challenges that we are given the power and opportunity to find our deepest strength, courage, growth and purpose in life. If you are struggling with anxious thoughts, feeling depressed or feeling alone, I want you to know there is help for you. I can provide evidence-based counseling, emotional support & guidance and psychotherapy services to help you identify and work through your challenges. Call me so we can begin this journey towards your healing today!
One of my favorite quotes is "There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in." It is often through our struggles and life challenges that we are given the power and opportunity to find our deepest strength, courage, growth and purpose in life. If you are struggling with anxious thoughts, feeling depressed or feeling alone, I want you to know there is help for you. I can provide evidence-based counseling, emotional support & guidance and psychotherapy services to help you identify and work through your challenges. Call me so we can begin this journey towards your healing today!
(803) 590-9615 View (803) 590-9615
Photo of Hannah Kopel, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Kopel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with adolescents, families, and young adults to live in ways that honor what they care about most. I value curiosity, empathy, and relational accountability and seek to center my clients in our work together. I am always open to feedback and hope to co-create a therapeutic relationship that can be a safe space for transformative growth. Whatever problems you or your child are facing, I hope to help you create meaningful change.
I am passionate about working with adolescents, families, and young adults to live in ways that honor what they care about most. I value curiosity, empathy, and relational accountability and seek to center my clients in our work together. I am always open to feedback and hope to co-create a therapeutic relationship that can be a safe space for transformative growth. Whatever problems you or your child are facing, I hope to help you create meaningful change.
(803) 902-4462 View (803) 902-4462
Photo of John Charles Barnett, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Charles Barnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Charlie’s background includes working in acute psychiatric care, assessment/diagnoses, and psychotherapy in both inpatient and outpatient settings. He is also experienced working with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, ADHD, and many other mental health concerns.
Charlie’s background includes working in acute psychiatric care, assessment/diagnoses, and psychotherapy in both inpatient and outpatient settings. He is also experienced working with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, ADHD, and many other mental health concerns.
(803) 913-6299 View (803) 913-6299
Photo of Carlton A Andrews, MRC, LPC, NCAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carlton A Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC, NCAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206
Therapy has the potential to be tremendously helpful. I have over 25 years of experience working in the counseling field. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an NCAC. Through my career, I have primarily focused on all types of addictions as well as worked with couples and others seeking to change habits and personality traits that hinder their happiness. I will help to recognize, face, and overcome the stuck points often felt when having personal difficulties. I use varied counseling methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness.
Therapy has the potential to be tremendously helpful. I have over 25 years of experience working in the counseling field. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an NCAC. Through my career, I have primarily focused on all types of addictions as well as worked with couples and others seeking to change habits and personality traits that hinder their happiness. I will help to recognize, face, and overcome the stuck points often felt when having personal difficulties. I use varied counseling methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy and mindfulness.
(803) 302-3907 View (803) 302-3907
Photo of Dr. Connell Anthony, LPC-S, NCC, CCMHC, PsyD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Connell Anthony
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CCMHC, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I serve as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. I have experience in a wide range of settings including schools, a mental health center, and psychiatric hospitals. My training as Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, and a certified high school teacher enhance my skills to work with parents and their children with many issues they encounter in an educational and social environment, such as bullying, conflict resolution, anger management, low esteem, and many other issues that they may encounter throughout the school year. I provide supervision for Counseling Practicum and Internship, and LPC-I.
I serve as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. I have experience in a wide range of settings including schools, a mental health center, and psychiatric hospitals. My training as Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, and a certified high school teacher enhance my skills to work with parents and their children with many issues they encounter in an educational and social environment, such as bullying, conflict resolution, anger management, low esteem, and many other issues that they may encounter throughout the school year. I provide supervision for Counseling Practicum and Internship, and LPC-I.
(803) 610-2933 View (803) 610-2933
Photo of Tamara Louise Grimm - flow. holistic psychotherapy for adults., MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
flow. holistic psychotherapy for adults.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
As a feminist therapist, I am deeply committed to fostering a therapeutic environment that embraces equality, empowerment, and inclusivity. Women residing in this area face unique challenges: pay gaps, discrimination, gender based violence, inequitable medical care, bias, gender role related expectations. It is my personal mission to help women navigate these structural hurdles in order to live fulfilling and joyous lives. In my practice, I strive to create a safe and affirming space where individuals of all genders feel valued, respected, and heard.
As a feminist therapist, I am deeply committed to fostering a therapeutic environment that embraces equality, empowerment, and inclusivity. Women residing in this area face unique challenges: pay gaps, discrimination, gender based violence, inequitable medical care, bias, gender role related expectations. It is my personal mission to help women navigate these structural hurdles in order to live fulfilling and joyous lives. In my practice, I strive to create a safe and affirming space where individuals of all genders feel valued, respected, and heard.
(803) 918-6968 View (803) 918-6968
Photo of Sarah Zell, MSW,  LISW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Zell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
Sarah Zell is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Clinical Practice in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Sarah is committed to helping clients learn how to live happier, more fulfilling lives and maintain better relationships with their friends and family members. Her work focuses on identifying ineffective behaviors, errors in thinking patterns, unproductive habits, and false beliefs, so they can be addressed appropriately. Sarah believes in taking a collaborative, clientcentered approach, focusing on honesty, respect, and empowerment to help clients reach their goals.
Sarah Zell is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Clinical Practice in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2023. Sarah is committed to helping clients learn how to live happier, more fulfilling lives and maintain better relationships with their friends and family members. Her work focuses on identifying ineffective behaviors, errors in thinking patterns, unproductive habits, and false beliefs, so they can be addressed appropriately. Sarah believes in taking a collaborative, clientcentered approach, focusing on honesty, respect, and empowerment to help clients reach their goals.
(803) 886-0392 View (803) 886-0392
Hope M Garvin
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
Clients seeking the answer to the question what's next in my life can find that answer at New Beginnings Counseling Services. I specialize in anxiety, stress management and relaxation. In addition to family, and individuals counseling I also work with clients suffering from depression, low performance at school or work, and career and life changers. Make an appointment today in a relaxing atmosphere while you explore a new beginning in your life.
Clients seeking the answer to the question what's next in my life can find that answer at New Beginnings Counseling Services. I specialize in anxiety, stress management and relaxation. In addition to family, and individuals counseling I also work with clients suffering from depression, low performance at school or work, and career and life changers. Make an appointment today in a relaxing atmosphere while you explore a new beginning in your life.
(803) 373-1515 View (803) 373-1515
Photo of Derosset Myers, PsyD, Psychologist
Derosset Myers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
Dr. Myers earned his AB in Sociology from Princeton University and his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of South Carolina. He completed his internship at the Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, and a post-doctoral residency in pediatric oncology at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Myers is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. He has worked with hospitalized children and adolescents at the W. S.
Dr. Myers earned his AB in Sociology from Princeton University and his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of South Carolina. He completed his internship at the Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, and a post-doctoral residency in pediatric oncology at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Myers is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. He has worked with hospitalized children and adolescents at the W. S.
(803) 599-2976 View (803) 599-2976
Photo of William Walkup, Psychologist
William Walkup
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
Undergraduate degree Clemson University. Medical School and residency completed at University of South Carolina. Board Certified in Adult General Psychiatry. Practicing since 1995.
Undergraduate degree Clemson University. Medical School and residency completed at University of South Carolina. Board Certified in Adult General Psychiatry. Practicing since 1995.
(803) 866-7221 View (803) 866-7221
Photo of Lynne Fish, PhD, Psychologist
Lynne Fish
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206
Dr. Lynne Fish is a Psychologist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 1999. She received a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1998 and already had gained a Master's Degree in Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Since that time, she has sought further trainings in various therapies, such as EMDR, DBT, and hypnosis in order to help people more effectively. Life brings struggles to us all at times; Dr. Fish loves helping people move beyond these and toward a brighter future and is blessed by God to do this work.
Dr. Lynne Fish is a Psychologist in South Carolina who has been practicing since 1999. She received a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1998 and already had gained a Master's Degree in Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Since that time, she has sought further trainings in various therapies, such as EMDR, DBT, and hypnosis in order to help people more effectively. Life brings struggles to us all at times; Dr. Fish loves helping people move beyond these and toward a brighter future and is blessed by God to do this work.
(803) 672-3236 View (803) 672-3236
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 29206

70+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 29206 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
88% Depression
69% Relationship Issues
67% Trauma and PTSD
64% Life Transitions
62% Grief
59% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Cigna and Evernorth
69% Aetna

How Therapists in 29206 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 29206?

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.