Photo of Jennifer Heglar, MA,  APC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Heglar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, APC
Verified Verified
Bluff City, TN 37618
Jen Heglar, LPC, is dedicated to helping clients navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth through compassionate and tailored therapeutic support. Serving individuals across Tennessee, Jen brings a wealth of expertise in working with children, adolescents, and adults. She specializes in addressing anxiety, depression, and trauma, and provides a safe and empowering space for clients to explore their experiences and emotions. Jen is particularly passionate about supporting those dealing with ADHD, childhood behavior issues, and school avoidance.
Jen Heglar, LPC, is dedicated to helping clients navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth through compassionate and tailored therapeutic support. Serving individuals across Tennessee, Jen brings a wealth of expertise in working with children, adolescents, and adults. She specializes in addressing anxiety, depression, and trauma, and provides a safe and empowering space for clients to explore their experiences and emotions. Jen is particularly passionate about supporting those dealing with ADHD, childhood behavior issues, and school avoidance.
(855) 454-9049 View (855) 454-9049
Photo of Jessica Gregory, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Gregory
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Bluff City, TN 37618  (Online Only)
I believe in the philosophy that every person has the ability to positively change their lives through their own untapped potential. I practice different evidence based approaches to help my clients discover their own strengths and use them to achieve their goals. My passions include helping my clients set and accomplish their goals during therapy, by meeting my clients where they are. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Sociology at Emory and Henry University. I continued my education at Radford University where I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Development.
I believe in the philosophy that every person has the ability to positively change their lives through their own untapped potential. I practice different evidence based approaches to help my clients discover their own strengths and use them to achieve their goals. My passions include helping my clients set and accomplish their goals during therapy, by meeting my clients where they are. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Sociology at Emory and Henry University. I continued my education at Radford University where I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Development.
(423) 393-9942 View (423) 393-9942
Photo of Sydney Peltier, LPC/MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Peltier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC/MHS
Verified Verified
Bluff City, TN 37618
Sydney Peltier is a licensed professional counselor who has spent her career passionately serving the mental health needs of her community through counseling, training and teaching, and advocating for quality care. With a variety of skills and expertise Sydney enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families to feel better, experience more joy in life, and have meaningful relationships that work. She believes wholeheartedly that health and healing are possible, especially when people recognize their own value, purpose, and strengths in partnership with professional and experienced clinical care.
Sydney Peltier is a licensed professional counselor who has spent her career passionately serving the mental health needs of her community through counseling, training and teaching, and advocating for quality care. With a variety of skills and expertise Sydney enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families to feel better, experience more joy in life, and have meaningful relationships that work. She believes wholeheartedly that health and healing are possible, especially when people recognize their own value, purpose, and strengths in partnership with professional and experienced clinical care.
(423) 522-1593 View (423) 522-1593
Photo of Matthew Tibbs, MA,  LPC/MH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Tibbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC/MH
Verified Verified
Bluff City, TN 37618
Matthew Tibbs is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health challenges in Tennessee. With a focus on anxiety, depression, anger management, and feelings of inadequacy, Matthew supports his clients in overcoming obstacles by fostering selfreflection and shifting perspectives. His approach encourages clients to align with their core values, aiming to move forward in life rather than being hindered by past difficulties.
Matthew Tibbs is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health challenges in Tennessee. With a focus on anxiety, depression, anger management, and feelings of inadequacy, Matthew supports his clients in overcoming obstacles by fostering selfreflection and shifting perspectives. His approach encourages clients to align with their core values, aiming to move forward in life rather than being hindered by past difficulties.
(855) 454-9049 View (855) 454-9049
Photo of Jenna Terry, MEd,  LPC/MH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenna Terry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC/MH
Verified Verified
Bluff City, TN 37618
Jenna Terry is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider Designation in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master of Education in Counseling and Development with a concentration in Community Mental Health. Jenna believes you have to meet the client where they are and help guide them on their journey of healing. It is like the therapist is the guiding post on the light house and the client steers where it needs to go. She approaches therapy from an attachment and acceptance theory.
Jenna Terry is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider Designation in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Master of Education in Counseling and Development with a concentration in Community Mental Health. Jenna believes you have to meet the client where they are and help guide them on their journey of healing. It is like the therapist is the guiding post on the light house and the client steers where it needs to go. She approaches therapy from an attachment and acceptance theory.
(423) 454-3968 View (423) 454-3968
Photo of Amanda Keener - LifeStance Health, LPC/MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC/MHS
Verified Verified
Bluff City, TN 37618
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(888) 404-1817 View (888) 404-1817
Photo of Sydney Peltier, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Peltier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Bluff City, TN 37618
Sydney Peltier is a licensed professional counselor who has spent her career passionately serving the mental health needs of her community through counseling, training and teaching, and advocating for quality care. With a variety of skills and expertise Sydney enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families to feel better, experience more joy in life, and have meaningful relationships that work. She believes wholeheartedly that health and healing are possible, especially when people recognize their own value, purpose, and strengths in partnership with professional and experienced clinical care.
Sydney Peltier is a licensed professional counselor who has spent her career passionately serving the mental health needs of her community through counseling, training and teaching, and advocating for quality care. With a variety of skills and expertise Sydney enjoys working with individuals, couples, and families to feel better, experience more joy in life, and have meaningful relationships that work. She believes wholeheartedly that health and healing are possible, especially when people recognize their own value, purpose, and strengths in partnership with professional and experienced clinical care.
(423) 919-9258 View (423) 919-9258
Photo of Amanda Keener, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Keener
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Bluff City, TN 37618
Amanda Keener is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee. She has a Master’s of Education in both School Counseling and Mental Health Counseling from Lincoln Memorial University and a BS in Child & Family Studies from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Amanda is very passionate about helping others. She enjoys being an advocate for her clients. Amanda meets her clients where they are and helps them find the skills to overcome life’s obstacles. Outside of work, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family and friends, as well as trying new art projects, reading a good book, and playing with her dogs.
Amanda Keener is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee. She has a Master’s of Education in both School Counseling and Mental Health Counseling from Lincoln Memorial University and a BS in Child & Family Studies from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Amanda is very passionate about helping others. She enjoys being an advocate for her clients. Amanda meets her clients where they are and helps them find the skills to overcome life’s obstacles. Outside of work, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family and friends, as well as trying new art projects, reading a good book, and playing with her dogs.
(423) 528-8843 View (423) 528-8843

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mary Allison, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Allison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
My approach to therapy is to respect each individual as a whole person. I believe each person knows himself or herself best. Loss of jobs, relationships, chemical addiction, life transitions, trauma, abuse and the stress of day to day living come with an array of thoughts and emotions, which at some points in our lives can become overwhelming. We start to feel like nothing can get better, and begin to self-destruct or stay stuck, out of fear of the unknown or poor habits. I use an eclectic approach, pulling together different types of therapies tailored to what would be most beneficial to the particular client.
My approach to therapy is to respect each individual as a whole person. I believe each person knows himself or herself best. Loss of jobs, relationships, chemical addiction, life transitions, trauma, abuse and the stress of day to day living come with an array of thoughts and emotions, which at some points in our lives can become overwhelming. We start to feel like nothing can get better, and begin to self-destruct or stay stuck, out of fear of the unknown or poor habits. I use an eclectic approach, pulling together different types of therapies tailored to what would be most beneficial to the particular client.
(423) 445-7468 View (423) 445-7468
Photo of Candice Hutchens, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Candice Hutchens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
Not accepting new clients
Do you have days where you feel disconnected from yourself and your true potential? Does it feel like no matter how hard you try, you don’t feel heard or valued by those you love most? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts about yourself or others? Spend a lot of time in your head wondering when or how things will get better? If you answered yes to any of these questions, my services may be a good fit for you. Please note I am in network with 3 insurance companies (below) and all other companies I am an out of network provider. For OON benefits I provide a monthly superbill at no additional cost .
Do you have days where you feel disconnected from yourself and your true potential? Does it feel like no matter how hard you try, you don’t feel heard or valued by those you love most? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts about yourself or others? Spend a lot of time in your head wondering when or how things will get better? If you answered yes to any of these questions, my services may be a good fit for you. Please note I am in network with 3 insurance companies (below) and all other companies I am an out of network provider. For OON benefits I provide a monthly superbill at no additional cost .
(423) 797-6638 View (423) 797-6638
Photo of Cathy Blake, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cathy Blake
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
Accepting New In-Person and Virtual Clients: Are you struggling with being your own personal bully, putting yourself down with constant criticism? Do you wish you could find peace and treat yourself with the kindness that you so easily bestow upon others? Do you struggle with emotions that feel overwhelming or out of control? Or maybe you have been avoiding your emotions all together. Do you attempt to control your body and/or food, socially isolate, self-harm or experience emotional outburst? You have been trying to break free from these patterns but feel stuck or even controlled.
Accepting New In-Person and Virtual Clients: Are you struggling with being your own personal bully, putting yourself down with constant criticism? Do you wish you could find peace and treat yourself with the kindness that you so easily bestow upon others? Do you struggle with emotions that feel overwhelming or out of control? Or maybe you have been avoiding your emotions all together. Do you attempt to control your body and/or food, socially isolate, self-harm or experience emotional outburst? You have been trying to break free from these patterns but feel stuck or even controlled.
(423) 343-5574 View (423) 343-5574
Photo of Angelia Redman, MEd, LPC-, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angelia Redman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
I believe that everyone can discover and be their "best self"! We all may just need a little help sometime getting to that point. We cannot go back and change the past....but can only start from today, where we are right now, and create our best future! We will work together in discovering the obstacles that are in your path and create a plan to get you on the right path.
I believe that everyone can discover and be their "best self"! We all may just need a little help sometime getting to that point. We cannot go back and change the past....but can only start from today, where we are right now, and create our best future! We will work together in discovering the obstacles that are in your path and create a plan to get you on the right path.
(423) 301-5635 View (423) 301-5635
Photo of Sara Jane Carico-Arnold, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Jane Carico-Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
Waitlist for new clients
There is a reason we do the things that we do and feel the way that we feel. All mental health issues are caused by us surviving and navigating this world to the best of our abilities given all the obstacles that can get in the way. Therapy is a science and an art. In better understanding the science and the question of “why” we do the things that we do can be a powerful tool in starting your healing journey. Once having this level of insight, therapy aims to not only heal you in the present but heal the deeper underlying issues that have caused things to get to this point.
There is a reason we do the things that we do and feel the way that we feel. All mental health issues are caused by us surviving and navigating this world to the best of our abilities given all the obstacles that can get in the way. Therapy is a science and an art. In better understanding the science and the question of “why” we do the things that we do can be a powerful tool in starting your healing journey. Once having this level of insight, therapy aims to not only heal you in the present but heal the deeper underlying issues that have caused things to get to this point.
(423) 482-8324 View (423) 482-8324
Photo of Gordon Brewer - L. Gordon Brewer, Jr., MEd.,LMFT, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
L. Gordon Brewer, Jr., MEd.,LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620
Not accepting new clients
Coming to therapy always takes a lot of courage! Talking with someone about the things affecting us in our lives can be difficult. But, when the right steps are taken and we can see other ways to approach our problems, life can change. My goal as a therapist is to help people discover new ways to approach the difficult times in life and find alternative solutions. Ultimately, most people are seeking ways to have better relationships and feel a sense of contentment in life. Through individual, couples or family therapy I help people find these new ways of living.
Coming to therapy always takes a lot of courage! Talking with someone about the things affecting us in our lives can be difficult. But, when the right steps are taken and we can see other ways to approach our problems, life can change. My goal as a therapist is to help people discover new ways to approach the difficult times in life and find alternative solutions. Ultimately, most people are seeking ways to have better relationships and feel a sense of contentment in life. Through individual, couples or family therapy I help people find these new ways of living.
(423) 393-2661 View (423) 393-2661
Photo of Emmanuel S John, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emmanuel S John
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Piney Flats, TN 37686
My name is Emmanuel S. John. I am a Psychotherapist/counselor and author in the Tri-Cities area of TN. I've been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 30 years. I help people with personal emotional struggles of all kinds; Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD just to name a few. I have a proven track record and you will see results after every session. I can help but not until you call. I am taking new clients. Cash services, insurance is not necessary. Invest the effort, you're worth it! (Ever consider online therapy? Let's talk.)
My name is Emmanuel S. John. I am a Psychotherapist/counselor and author in the Tri-Cities area of TN. I've been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 30 years. I help people with personal emotional struggles of all kinds; Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD just to name a few. I have a proven track record and you will see results after every session. I can help but not until you call. I am taking new clients. Cash services, insurance is not necessary. Invest the effort, you're worth it! (Ever consider online therapy? Let's talk.)
(423) 302-0338 View (423) 302-0338
Photo of Justin W Forgette, LPC , MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justin W Forgette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bristol, TN 37620  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Christian Licensed Professional Counselor based in Tennessee. As a husband and father, I bring over 15 years of experience, mainly in an Intensive Outpatient Program setting. My expertise includes working with adolescents and adults battling co-occurring disorders. In my individual practice I enjoy helping individuals with Men's issues, marital struggles, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-esteem. Additionally, I provide supervision to pre-licensed counselors in Tennessee. I currently have openings within the next 5-7 days.
Hello, I am a Christian Licensed Professional Counselor based in Tennessee. As a husband and father, I bring over 15 years of experience, mainly in an Intensive Outpatient Program setting. My expertise includes working with adolescents and adults battling co-occurring disorders. In my individual practice I enjoy helping individuals with Men's issues, marital struggles, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-esteem. Additionally, I provide supervision to pre-licensed counselors in Tennessee. I currently have openings within the next 5-7 days.
(423) 512-3014 View (423) 512-3014
Photo of Rachael Voelker - Sunny Path Counseling, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rachael Voelker - Sunny Path Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Rachael finds herself using Solution Focused and Behavioral Therapy due to the rapid results and retention of new skills. She believes that Mental Health should be treated the same as one who goes to the Medical Doctor for an illness, we want results, and that is what she wants to give you. Of course, all treatments are not the same and some bumps in the road take longer to repair. Rachael is willing and able to adjust her Therapeutic skills to meet your needs and is willing to walk right beside you as you heal, no matter how long it takes.
Rachael finds herself using Solution Focused and Behavioral Therapy due to the rapid results and retention of new skills. She believes that Mental Health should be treated the same as one who goes to the Medical Doctor for an illness, we want results, and that is what she wants to give you. Of course, all treatments are not the same and some bumps in the road take longer to repair. Rachael is willing and able to adjust her Therapeutic skills to meet your needs and is willing to walk right beside you as you heal, no matter how long it takes.
(423) 564-5962 View (423) 564-5962
Photo of Tatum Harvey, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Tatum Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Bristol, TN 37620
Hi, I’m Tatum! I'm a therapist at Sunny Path Counseling in Bristol, TN. I enjoy working with children and families to help them discover their strengths, build effective coping skills, and create healthy relationships.
Hi, I’m Tatum! I'm a therapist at Sunny Path Counseling in Bristol, TN. I enjoy working with children and families to help them discover their strengths, build effective coping skills, and create healthy relationships.
(423) 226-5344 View (423) 226-5344
Photo of Brynn Burger, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brynn Burger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elizabethton, TN 37643
Struggling with marriage or partnership conflict, sexual trauma/abuse/addiction, or exploring individuality and healing somatic response to trauma? I pair my experience with over 20 years serving in various forms of mental health as a clinician trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, Integrative Sex Therapy to support sexual addiction recovery, counseling couples, families, and individuals working toward healing from infidelity, struggling with communication, or navigating non-traditional relationships.
Struggling with marriage or partnership conflict, sexual trauma/abuse/addiction, or exploring individuality and healing somatic response to trauma? I pair my experience with over 20 years serving in various forms of mental health as a clinician trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, Integrative Sex Therapy to support sexual addiction recovery, counseling couples, families, and individuals working toward healing from infidelity, struggling with communication, or navigating non-traditional relationships.
(423) 497-3781 View (423) 497-3781
Photo of Kristy Lester Pruitt, LPCMHSP, (S), Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristy Lester Pruitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, (S)
Verified Verified
Elizabethton, TN 37643
With 18 years of experience as a licensed counselor, I am deeply committed to helping individuals navigate life’s most challenging moments. I specialize in guiding clients through crisis, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, self-confidence struggles, and addiction. I have specialties in EMDR/trauma therapy, critical incident stress management debriefings, and clinical supervision. I work with multiple populations, but have special experience with first responders, and other helping professions. Understanding that each person’s journey is unique, I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where healing and growth are possible.
With 18 years of experience as a licensed counselor, I am deeply committed to helping individuals navigate life’s most challenging moments. I specialize in guiding clients through crisis, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, self-confidence struggles, and addiction. I have specialties in EMDR/trauma therapy, critical incident stress management debriefings, and clinical supervision. I work with multiple populations, but have special experience with first responders, and other helping professions. Understanding that each person’s journey is unique, I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where healing and growth are possible.
(423) 528-8732 View (423) 528-8732

See more therapy options for 37618

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 37618

< 10

Therapists in 37618 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
75% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
63% ADHD
63% Grief
50% Child
50% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 37618 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 37618?

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.