Photo of Kathy M. Glover, MS, CAMS, TOT, CPLC, SGS
Kathy M. Glover
MS, CAMS, TOT, CPLC, SGS
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
My name is Koach Kathy, I am here to help you be successful in the Game of Life. Life is full of transitions. During transitions support is extremely valuable. I am here to support you during your transitions. Women in transition! Men in transition! Being successful in love, divorce, parenting, empty nest, caregiver for parent, child going to school, child leaving school, losing a parent. Transitions, transitions, transitions! I am here to support you! Change is challenging! There are no written instruction on love, parenting, being a partner or being a caregiver. Please allow me to support you through the challenges that life presents.
My name is Koach Kathy, I am here to help you be successful in the Game of Life. Life is full of transitions. During transitions support is extremely valuable. I am here to support you during your transitions. Women in transition! Men in transition! Being successful in love, divorce, parenting, empty nest, caregiver for parent, child going to school, child leaving school, losing a parent. Transitions, transitions, transitions! I am here to support you! Change is challenging! There are no written instruction on love, parenting, being a partner or being a caregiver. Please allow me to support you through the challenges that life presents.
(678) 506-2668 View (678) 506-2668
Photo of Martha Earley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Martha Earley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Georgia with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience with addiction, schizophrenia, anger issues and numerous other disorders. I am EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Expert as well as holding certification in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I also use a number of other counseling techniques, as I believe we can learn from each one.
I am licensed in Georgia with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience with addiction, schizophrenia, anger issues and numerous other disorders. I am EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Expert as well as holding certification in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I also use a number of other counseling techniques, as I believe we can learn from each one.
(470) 541-5620 View (470) 541-5620
Photo of Martana Eldridge, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martana Eldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
At any given moment you can make the decision to live the life you desire. When we avoid addressing our past and present issues, we may develop unhealthy thinking patterns, behaviors and ways of coping that we don't even recognize. & although we may not recognize that these things are happening, it can easily lead to confusion, self doubt, anxiety, fear and even sadness. Healing and transformation are easier said than done and there is nothing wrong with connecting to a professional you can identify with to help you with the process.
At any given moment you can make the decision to live the life you desire. When we avoid addressing our past and present issues, we may develop unhealthy thinking patterns, behaviors and ways of coping that we don't even recognize. & although we may not recognize that these things are happening, it can easily lead to confusion, self doubt, anxiety, fear and even sadness. Healing and transformation are easier said than done and there is nothing wrong with connecting to a professional you can identify with to help you with the process.
(716) 303-0730 View (716) 303-0730
Photo of Huei Chen Cheng, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Huei Chen Cheng
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
I am passionate about serving teens, kids, and adults who like to learn how to manage better emotions such as depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma, Grief, Loss, and Dissociation as well as improve communication and relationships between family for parents/children and couples to create abundant life. I have empowered many women men children teens and the elderly to live a better life. Many people have struggled with lack of motivation confidence and love of their work and selves. People need to find deeper passion purpose and love in order to ignite motivation at work relationship and create abundant life.
I am passionate about serving teens, kids, and adults who like to learn how to manage better emotions such as depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, Bipolar, Trauma, Grief, Loss, and Dissociation as well as improve communication and relationships between family for parents/children and couples to create abundant life. I have empowered many women men children teens and the elderly to live a better life. Many people have struggled with lack of motivation confidence and love of their work and selves. People need to find deeper passion purpose and love in order to ignite motivation at work relationship and create abundant life.
(404) 999-1842 View (404) 999-1842
Photo of Kendal Harrod, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kendal Harrod
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration and development of tools to navigate life's challenges. My therapeutic approach is highlighted through a person-centered, solution-focused approach by helping identify individual strengths and increase self-esteem/confidence.
My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration and development of tools to navigate life's challenges. My therapeutic approach is highlighted through a person-centered, solution-focused approach by helping identify individual strengths and increase self-esteem/confidence.
(470) 782-8457 View (470) 782-8457
Photo of Caarne L White, MDiv, MA, DMin, Pastoral Counselor
Caarne L White
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, MA, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30034
Hello! I'm a Certified Christian Therapist and Certified Pastoral Counselor. My name is Caarne, and I like to help people. No matter how you got here, you considered counseling for something happening or not happening in your life or relationships. I am committed to no judgment, side-taking, rehashing, bossing, or bullying. Look forward to an empathetic, compassionate, and solution-focused listener, facilitating the next phase of your journey.
Hello! I'm a Certified Christian Therapist and Certified Pastoral Counselor. My name is Caarne, and I like to help people. No matter how you got here, you considered counseling for something happening or not happening in your life or relationships. I am committed to no judgment, side-taking, rehashing, bossing, or bullying. Look forward to an empathetic, compassionate, and solution-focused listener, facilitating the next phase of your journey.
(678) 658-3753 View (678) 658-3753
Photo of Primruth Marshall, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Primruth Marshall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
I am Primruth Marshall, a compassionate counselor with extensive experience in play therapy, relationship dynamics, emotion regulation, anxiety, depression, and trauma healing. Currently under supervision to enhance my skills, I integrate cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy within a Christian counseling framework. My approach creates a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and work toward healing and growth. I offer sessions aimed at fostering resilience and achieving personal goals.
I am Primruth Marshall, a compassionate counselor with extensive experience in play therapy, relationship dynamics, emotion regulation, anxiety, depression, and trauma healing. Currently under supervision to enhance my skills, I integrate cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy within a Christian counseling framework. My approach creates a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions and work toward healing and growth. I offer sessions aimed at fostering resilience and achieving personal goals.
(470) 649-2638 View (470) 649-2638
Photo of Tinika S Prince, MA, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tinika S Prince
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
Well, where do I began...I have been working in this field for over 13, years consistently. I have had the pleasure of being trained by amazing people in three different settings to include residential, nonprofit, and community based. I have been working with children as young as 4, years of age, to adulthood. For the past few years I have been working with children who have been victims of sexual exploitation and trafficking as well as LGBTTQQIAAP, teens and adults over the past few years. Helping others has always been my passion, so I made it my business to provide quality services to assist others in their time of need.
Well, where do I began...I have been working in this field for over 13, years consistently. I have had the pleasure of being trained by amazing people in three different settings to include residential, nonprofit, and community based. I have been working with children as young as 4, years of age, to adulthood. For the past few years I have been working with children who have been victims of sexual exploitation and trafficking as well as LGBTTQQIAAP, teens and adults over the past few years. Helping others has always been my passion, so I made it my business to provide quality services to assist others in their time of need.
(770) 621-0694 View (770) 621-0694
Photo of Jenise Clark, LPC, CMAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenise Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
With a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and extensive expertise in assisting veterans and adults facing challenges in substance use, behavior management, and mental health, I bring a wealth of experience to our sessions. I firmly believe in the inherent value of every individual, recognizing their unique contributions to today's society. In our sessions, we'll delve into identifying the stressors impacting your life and explore your reactions to them. This exploration lays the foundation for a tailored treatment plan aimed at addressing your specific needs.
With a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and extensive expertise in assisting veterans and adults facing challenges in substance use, behavior management, and mental health, I bring a wealth of experience to our sessions. I firmly believe in the inherent value of every individual, recognizing their unique contributions to today's society. In our sessions, we'll delve into identifying the stressors impacting your life and explore your reactions to them. This exploration lays the foundation for a tailored treatment plan aimed at addressing your specific needs.
(404) 491-7926 View (404) 491-7926
Photo of Ebony Mavins, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ebony Mavins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
Are you needing a space to process emotions and gain clarity in your life? Do you want to experience healing and unsure where or how to start? Maybe you're suffering from anxiety or life transitions and not sure what to do or where to go with unexpected emotions. I create a space just for you to process and understand how to heal and manage along the way.
Are you needing a space to process emotions and gain clarity in your life? Do you want to experience healing and unsure where or how to start? Maybe you're suffering from anxiety or life transitions and not sure what to do or where to go with unexpected emotions. I create a space just for you to process and understand how to heal and manage along the way.
(470) 798-1330 View (470) 798-1330
Photo of Jodi Spires, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Spires
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
Hi, my name is Jodi Spires. For 25 years, I have worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with people learning to deal with depression, anxiety, trauma, and family issues. Though I am comfortable working with clients of all ages, when working with children, I prefer them to be a little older, like 9/10 years+. I am comfortable working with clients from diverse racial, social, or religious/spiritual backgrounds, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi, my name is Jodi Spires. For 25 years, I have worked as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with people learning to deal with depression, anxiety, trauma, and family issues. Though I am comfortable working with clients of all ages, when working with children, I prefer them to be a little older, like 9/10 years+. I am comfortable working with clients from diverse racial, social, or religious/spiritual backgrounds, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.
(678) 928-6812 View (678) 928-6812
Photo of Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts, PsyD, MDiv, LPC, CPCS, DVISII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MDiv, LPC, CPCS, DVISII
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
(404) 800-3044 View (404) 800-3044
Photo of Teressa Mathurin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teressa Mathurin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
I am a native of Atlanta, GA and have over 18+ years’ experience in the counseling field As a therapist, I engage and educate my clients on how their thoughts and feelings truly have correlation with the actions they exhibit and symptoms they experience. I believe, if a person can learn/create healthy coping mechanisms such as, thought stopping techniques, positive self-talk, meditation, self-regulation, and mindfulness living, then change can certainly occur. I normally incorporate digital learning by assigning lessons, exercises, and homework between scheduled sessions.
I am a native of Atlanta, GA and have over 18+ years’ experience in the counseling field As a therapist, I engage and educate my clients on how their thoughts and feelings truly have correlation with the actions they exhibit and symptoms they experience. I believe, if a person can learn/create healthy coping mechanisms such as, thought stopping techniques, positive self-talk, meditation, self-regulation, and mindfulness living, then change can certainly occur. I normally incorporate digital learning by assigning lessons, exercises, and homework between scheduled sessions.
(470) 229-3456 View (470) 229-3456
Photo of Kevin Larry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Larry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
My name is Kevin Larry. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Master's Addiction Counselor with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, families, couples, and groups. My specialties include mental health, substance abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, anger and aggression, trauma, ADHD, and other behavioral issues. I believe in a strengths-based approach utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy techniques, and Motivational Interviewing.
My name is Kevin Larry. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Master's Addiction Counselor with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, families, couples, and groups. My specialties include mental health, substance abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, anger and aggression, trauma, ADHD, and other behavioral issues. I believe in a strengths-based approach utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy techniques, and Motivational Interviewing.
(470) 748-2092 View (470) 748-2092
Photo of Kwatoria Bryant, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kwatoria Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
I'm a passionate therapist committed to helping children, young adults, women, and men manage their challenges by identifying and replacing negative behaviors learned in their past. My ideal clients struggle with ineffective habits and beliefs and are seeking new ways to cope and grow. They want to transform their lives and achieve their goals through understanding and support.
I'm a passionate therapist committed to helping children, young adults, women, and men manage their challenges by identifying and replacing negative behaviors learned in their past. My ideal clients struggle with ineffective habits and beliefs and are seeking new ways to cope and grow. They want to transform their lives and achieve their goals through understanding and support.
(470) 649-3507 View (470) 649-3507
Photo of James Winfrey - Valiant Therapy, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valiant Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30034
For you, therapy is a mirror which allows you to see the best in you as well. Clinically, through the utilization of various evidenced-based clinical modalities, your wholeness, happiness, and peace is attainable. Through therapeutic insight, self-approval, heightened perspective, and authoritative self-shifting, your desire to be the best you is truly possible. It is the aligning of effective therapy approaches, safe and secure emotional refuge, and strength based collaboration that I am certain that your best life experiences can be realized.
For you, therapy is a mirror which allows you to see the best in you as well. Clinically, through the utilization of various evidenced-based clinical modalities, your wholeness, happiness, and peace is attainable. Through therapeutic insight, self-approval, heightened perspective, and authoritative self-shifting, your desire to be the best you is truly possible. It is the aligning of effective therapy approaches, safe and secure emotional refuge, and strength based collaboration that I am certain that your best life experiences can be realized.
(678) 941-1831 View (678) 941-1831
Photo of Charlyne Bembry Jenkins - The Potter's Touch Counseling, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Potter's Touch Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
Adult, child and adolescent specialist in anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, poor emotional regulation, social skills and anger management training. Provide school support to increase school success. Co-parenting counseling and coordination with focus on the well-being of children. Additionally, for adults we utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), grief counseling and effective strategies toward the recovery of great emotional health.
Adult, child and adolescent specialist in anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, poor emotional regulation, social skills and anger management training. Provide school support to increase school success. Co-parenting counseling and coordination with focus on the well-being of children. Additionally, for adults we utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), grief counseling and effective strategies toward the recovery of great emotional health.
(404) 390-2308 View (404) 390-2308
Photo of Nina Lucille Kitchen - Family Solutions and Consultation Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Family Solutions and Consultation Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
I am delighted to assist you in developing and using your inner strengths toward greater wellness and mastery in life. With vast experience in mental health, child welfare and the healthcare settings, my focus is on helping children, adolescents and adults increase their ability to manage depression and anxiety caused by extenuating life circumstances. For over 25 years, I have helped many people successfully confront serious medical diagnosis, death of loved-ones, abuse, family discord, and relationship issues. The best results are achieved with clients who are actively engaged in therapy and open to pursuing growth.
I am delighted to assist you in developing and using your inner strengths toward greater wellness and mastery in life. With vast experience in mental health, child welfare and the healthcare settings, my focus is on helping children, adolescents and adults increase their ability to manage depression and anxiety caused by extenuating life circumstances. For over 25 years, I have helped many people successfully confront serious medical diagnosis, death of loved-ones, abuse, family discord, and relationship issues. The best results are achieved with clients who are actively engaged in therapy and open to pursuing growth.
(404) 467-5772 View (404) 467-5772
Photo of Nichole Wall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole Wall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
Are you currently feeling overwhelmed with life’s challenges and twisted emotions? Whether you’re a teen navigating the maze of adolescence; a student striving for excellence despite life’s distractions; a young adult maneuvering through your own independence and self-discovery; or perhaps an adult confronting societal pressures head-on, know that I understand! I have over fifteen years experience counseling others in a variety of settings and use an integrative approach to therapy.
Are you currently feeling overwhelmed with life’s challenges and twisted emotions? Whether you’re a teen navigating the maze of adolescence; a student striving for excellence despite life’s distractions; a young adult maneuvering through your own independence and self-discovery; or perhaps an adult confronting societal pressures head-on, know that I understand! I have over fifteen years experience counseling others in a variety of settings and use an integrative approach to therapy.
(470) 684-2336 View (470) 684-2336
Photo of Djuana Swift, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Djuana Swift
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
Managing the challenges of life takes resilience and skill that both children and adults have to develop. Various challenges present itself in our lives at different times, such as conflict with family members, problems at work, relationship difficulties, traumatic experiences, the loss of loved ones and illnesses. I enjoy helping people gain insight into their behaviors and enhance their skills for overcoming problems in positive ways. My goal is to help people learn to manage their thoughts, emotions and behaviors so that they can foster adaptive behaviors and become the best person that they want to be.
Managing the challenges of life takes resilience and skill that both children and adults have to develop. Various challenges present itself in our lives at different times, such as conflict with family members, problems at work, relationship difficulties, traumatic experiences, the loss of loved ones and illnesses. I enjoy helping people gain insight into their behaviors and enhance their skills for overcoming problems in positive ways. My goal is to help people learn to manage their thoughts, emotions and behaviors so that they can foster adaptive behaviors and become the best person that they want to be.
(404) 998-5235 View (404) 998-5235
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 30034

50+

Average cost per session

$119

Therapists in 30034 who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
86% Depression
71% Coping Skills
70% Anger Management
70% Stress
68% Self Esteem
66% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 30034 see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
12% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 30034?

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.