Photo of Taryn Heart - Relationship Consultants, MA
Relationship Consultants
MA
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40618  (Online Only)
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
(217) 776-9523 View (217) 776-9523

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kasey Anderson, MSW, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kasey Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40604
Hey there! Look at you, taking the first step toward reaching your mental health goals. I hope you’re proud of yourself and I’m honored you’re considering working with me. Sometimes taking the first step in seeking help can be an overwhelming and scary process. I believe that one of the bravest things someone can do is begin to understand their own story. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that every individual has unique experiences and that their plan of care should be person-centered, holistic, and strengths-based. For each of my clients, I offer a safe space where they can feel seen, heard, and valued.
Hey there! Look at you, taking the first step toward reaching your mental health goals. I hope you’re proud of yourself and I’m honored you’re considering working with me. Sometimes taking the first step in seeking help can be an overwhelming and scary process. I believe that one of the bravest things someone can do is begin to understand their own story. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that every individual has unique experiences and that their plan of care should be person-centered, holistic, and strengths-based. For each of my clients, I offer a safe space where they can feel seen, heard, and valued.
View
Photo of Melanie Jarmon
Melanie Jarmon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601  (Online Only)
I strive to provide mental telehealth counseling services to help promote individual growth and positive mental health. I understand that each client I work with is a unique individual influenced by his, her or their culture, family, values, beliefs, and personal identity. I strive to honor and respect the uniqueness of each person I treat. I seek to decrease mental health suffering in clients, while I seek to promote a positive sense of self and self-esteem. I seek to lessen the experience of anxiety and worry which can inhibit one’s enjoyment of life, while I seek to help clients nurture and discover ways to enjoy and make the mos
I strive to provide mental telehealth counseling services to help promote individual growth and positive mental health. I understand that each client I work with is a unique individual influenced by his, her or their culture, family, values, beliefs, and personal identity. I strive to honor and respect the uniqueness of each person I treat. I seek to decrease mental health suffering in clients, while I seek to promote a positive sense of self and self-esteem. I seek to lessen the experience of anxiety and worry which can inhibit one’s enjoyment of life, while I seek to help clients nurture and discover ways to enjoy and make the mos
(502) 362-4226 View (502) 362-4226
Photo of Lesa Young, MA, LPCC-S, NCC, EMDR, CCPT, Counselor
Lesa Young
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, NCC, EMDR, CCPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40602
I believe that everyone comes to a time in life when they face their own personal “truth in the room”. This can be as simple as private self-reflection or as complicated as trying to save a relationship or marriage. Maybe you have a child who is out of control or a sibling who suffers from substance abuse. Whatever brings you to therapy, know that it is my goal to partner with you as you work toward personal growth and wellness. Strong individuals are able to have strong relationships and healthy lives with meaning and purpose. My ideal client is one who is ready to explore "who they are and to do it on purpose".
I believe that everyone comes to a time in life when they face their own personal “truth in the room”. This can be as simple as private self-reflection or as complicated as trying to save a relationship or marriage. Maybe you have a child who is out of control or a sibling who suffers from substance abuse. Whatever brings you to therapy, know that it is my goal to partner with you as you work toward personal growth and wellness. Strong individuals are able to have strong relationships and healthy lives with meaning and purpose. My ideal client is one who is ready to explore "who they are and to do it on purpose".
(859) 878-1109 View (859) 878-1109
Photo of Joshua Smith, Psychologist
Joshua Smith
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601  (Online Only)
“My approach to helping others is rooted in humility and the practice of radical acceptance.” I am just like you; I am a human ,I have been thru some challenges, I love tv and movies, music, and books. My approach to helping others is rooted in humility and the practice of radical acceptance. I pride myself on meeting the client where the client is and creating a blueprint for progress from there. My most valuable skills as a psychologist are my abilities to build rapport, make the client comfortable, and create a comfortable space to work on issues. One of my strongest character traits is empathy. This allows me to see the world th
“My approach to helping others is rooted in humility and the practice of radical acceptance.” I am just like you; I am a human ,I have been thru some challenges, I love tv and movies, music, and books. My approach to helping others is rooted in humility and the practice of radical acceptance. I pride myself on meeting the client where the client is and creating a blueprint for progress from there. My most valuable skills as a psychologist are my abilities to build rapport, make the client comfortable, and create a comfortable space to work on issues. One of my strongest character traits is empathy. This allows me to see the world th
(270) 517-6425 View (270) 517-6425
Photo of Anna Bunch, LPCC
Anna Bunch
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601  (Online Only)
Anna Marie Bunch, M.Ed, LPCC, LCADC, is a licensed therapist with over 11 years of experience in the field of mental health. She holds a Master's of Education in Human Services and Counseling and is licensed to practice in Kentucky and Ohio. Throughout her career, Anna Marie has worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, K-12 schools, and residential recovery programs. Her diverse background has equipped her with a deep understanding of the complexities of the human experience and a wealth of knowledge in helping individuals overcome obstacles and thrive.
Anna Marie Bunch, M.Ed, LPCC, LCADC, is a licensed therapist with over 11 years of experience in the field of mental health. She holds a Master's of Education in Human Services and Counseling and is licensed to practice in Kentucky and Ohio. Throughout her career, Anna Marie has worked in a variety of settings, including private practice, K-12 schools, and residential recovery programs. Her diverse background has equipped her with a deep understanding of the complexities of the human experience and a wealth of knowledge in helping individuals overcome obstacles and thrive.
(502) 829-8054 View (502) 829-8054
Photo of Carol Proctor, LPCC
Carol Proctor
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601  (Online Only)
We all need to experience acceptance and love, a place of rest. In this type of environment we can heal wounds, grow in our strengths and establish boundaries with self and others.
We all need to experience acceptance and love, a place of rest. In this type of environment we can heal wounds, grow in our strengths and establish boundaries with self and others.
(502) 743-4296 View (502) 743-4296
Photo of Dr. Teresa Jacobson, DBH, LPCC, NCC
Dr. Teresa Jacobson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, DBH, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40604  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling knocked down by life? Whether you are impacted by trauma, loss, illness, chronic pain, sadness, anxiety, or stress from all of life's responsibilities; you do not have to take this journey on your own. I'm a Doctor of Behavioral Health and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor offering secure Telehealth sessions to Kentucky and Ohio adults from the comfort of their homes since the start of the pandemic. I would love to share very practical evidence-based neuroscience therapeutic techniques that can truly help you find more hope, better health, and a path to happiness again.
Are you feeling knocked down by life? Whether you are impacted by trauma, loss, illness, chronic pain, sadness, anxiety, or stress from all of life's responsibilities; you do not have to take this journey on your own. I'm a Doctor of Behavioral Health and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor offering secure Telehealth sessions to Kentucky and Ohio adults from the comfort of their homes since the start of the pandemic. I would love to share very practical evidence-based neuroscience therapeutic techniques that can truly help you find more hope, better health, and a path to happiness again.
(513) 206-3026 View (513) 206-3026
Optimal Living Services
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40602
Optimal Living Services partners with clients to increase their awareness of issues and empowers them to develop the skills to manage these challenges. We believe that every individual has obstacles they will need to face, and that the services our team provides will give hope to all of our clients.
Optimal Living Services partners with clients to increase their awareness of issues and empowers them to develop the skills to manage these challenges. We believe that every individual has obstacles they will need to face, and that the services our team provides will give hope to all of our clients.
(859) 785-1030 View (859) 785-1030
Photo of Jessica Duval, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Duval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frankfort, KY 40601
Waitlist for new clients
We all have an internal pressure cooker that holds strong feelings and repressed emotions. This is especially true with today’s adolescents and teenagers. When anxiety, fear, depression, and outside stressors fill their barometer up, they reach a boiling point of eruption that plays out in extreme anger, defiance, substance abuse, addictions to social media and screens, overeating, and other destructive behaviors.
We all have an internal pressure cooker that holds strong feelings and repressed emotions. This is especially true with today’s adolescents and teenagers. When anxiety, fear, depression, and outside stressors fill their barometer up, they reach a boiling point of eruption that plays out in extreme anger, defiance, substance abuse, addictions to social media and screens, overeating, and other destructive behaviors.
(502) 547-8033 View (502) 547-8033
Photo of John Anderson
John Anderson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601  (Online Only)
Nathan is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Kentucky. He has been helping people since 2014 with mental health and substance abuse issues. Nathan graduated from Lindsey Wilson College with his Bachelors of Arts in 2013 and completing his Masters of Education in Professional Counseling in 2015. Have you ever lost sleep, unable to eat or feel your life has no enjoyment or happiness? He helps clients dealing with stress, anxiety and depression. Clients that come to him are dealing with family, work and relationship stress that causes days of being nonproductive and a life of enjoyment and happiness aren't prese
Nathan is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Kentucky. He has been helping people since 2014 with mental health and substance abuse issues. Nathan graduated from Lindsey Wilson College with his Bachelors of Arts in 2013 and completing his Masters of Education in Professional Counseling in 2015. Have you ever lost sleep, unable to eat or feel your life has no enjoyment or happiness? He helps clients dealing with stress, anxiety and depression. Clients that come to him are dealing with family, work and relationship stress that causes days of being nonproductive and a life of enjoyment and happiness aren't prese
(502) 237-9342 View (502) 237-9342
Photo of Jean M. Miller - Transformational Therapy Center, llc, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transformational Therapy Center, llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
Hello and congratulations! You are one step closer to stepping out of emotional pain and into some relief. I am an experienced therapist who enjoys working with beautiful and diverse individuals (like you). My training largely comes from this work and through other professionals, in volunteer work, and continued training and consultation. I wholeheartedly believe that the you are the expert on you-- even during confusing times when you question yourself, how you got here, or where you are going. Let me join with you in a safe, positive, professional partnership in order for us to figure out how you can realize your true potential.
Hello and congratulations! You are one step closer to stepping out of emotional pain and into some relief. I am an experienced therapist who enjoys working with beautiful and diverse individuals (like you). My training largely comes from this work and through other professionals, in volunteer work, and continued training and consultation. I wholeheartedly believe that the you are the expert on you-- even during confusing times when you question yourself, how you got here, or where you are going. Let me join with you in a safe, positive, professional partnership in order for us to figure out how you can realize your true potential.
(502) 906-6170 View (502) 906-6170
Photo of Tynya Patton, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tynya Patton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601  (Online Only)
Most therapists are caring people, willing to help with whatever you’re going through. But it’s not always so easy to find someone who fully gets your lived experience, particularly in the areas of LGBTQIA+ identity. That’s one reason why I specialize in helping those who are dealing with gender identity, gender dysphoria, and sexual orientation issues. I can empathize and affirm where you’re at right now, supporting you as you identify your authentic self, your needs, and your goals. With the right treatment you can work through this time of transition and feel more confident about the future.
Most therapists are caring people, willing to help with whatever you’re going through. But it’s not always so easy to find someone who fully gets your lived experience, particularly in the areas of LGBTQIA+ identity. That’s one reason why I specialize in helping those who are dealing with gender identity, gender dysphoria, and sexual orientation issues. I can empathize and affirm where you’re at right now, supporting you as you identify your authentic self, your needs, and your goals. With the right treatment you can work through this time of transition and feel more confident about the future.
(615) 392-6984 View (615) 392-6984
Photo of Brianna Mekelburg, MSW, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianna Mekelburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40602
Not accepting new clients
As a dedicated clinical social worker, I am here to guide you on a transformative journey towards holistic healing. Rooted in a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, I specialize in trauma-informed care. With advanced training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), I bring evidence-based practices to empower you on your path to recovery.
As a dedicated clinical social worker, I am here to guide you on a transformative journey towards holistic healing. Rooted in a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, I specialize in trauma-informed care. With advanced training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), I bring evidence-based practices to empower you on your path to recovery.
(859) 544-2092 View (859) 544-2092
Photo of Claire Nickell, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Claire Nickell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40603  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped, repeating unwanted behaviors and thoughts? Do you desire more fulfilling relationships with those in your life? I provide a space where individuals can candidly explore their behavioral patterns and confront the challenges they face. My therapeutic method is characterized by a client-centered approach, where your goals take precedence. I provide attentive listening and constructive guidance based on where you're at in your personal journey. Through evidence-based models, such as emotionally focused therapy, I engage clients in creating rich, intimacy-filled experiences that lead to deeper trust and love.
Do you feel trapped, repeating unwanted behaviors and thoughts? Do you desire more fulfilling relationships with those in your life? I provide a space where individuals can candidly explore their behavioral patterns and confront the challenges they face. My therapeutic method is characterized by a client-centered approach, where your goals take precedence. I provide attentive listening and constructive guidance based on where you're at in your personal journey. Through evidence-based models, such as emotionally focused therapy, I engage clients in creating rich, intimacy-filled experiences that lead to deeper trust and love.
(859) 470-2978 View (859) 470-2978
Photo of Iris V Gutierrez - Iris Gutierrez,LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iris Gutierrez,LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
I am originally from Argentina and I live and work in Kentucky since August 2000,serving individuals. couples and families to diagnose and treat Mental Illness, Work issues, Anger Management, Relationships issues, Parenting classes , Domestic Violence and LGBT. My practice offers services in English and Spanish and include Psychological Evaluations for the courts. If you are an Attorney and are in need of a professional expert opinion I can be consulted for criminal and civil cases counting on a strong work ethics, professionalism and more than 10 years of experience and cultural sensitivity. I will be honored to work with you
I am originally from Argentina and I live and work in Kentucky since August 2000,serving individuals. couples and families to diagnose and treat Mental Illness, Work issues, Anger Management, Relationships issues, Parenting classes , Domestic Violence and LGBT. My practice offers services in English and Spanish and include Psychological Evaluations for the courts. If you are an Attorney and are in need of a professional expert opinion I can be consulted for criminal and civil cases counting on a strong work ethics, professionalism and more than 10 years of experience and cultural sensitivity. I will be honored to work with you
(859) 534-9191 View (859) 534-9191
Photo of Michael E Whitten - Whitten Psychological Services, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Whitten Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601
We provide online neuropsychological assessments for adults susected of having ADHD or autism. We also provide pre-surgical assessments for people seeking bariatric surgery and pain management procedures. Our therapists help people with anxiety, PTSD, depression, and relationship problems. We have several therapists who specialize in marriage counseling. We accept most major insurance plans including Passport and other Medicaid providers.
We provide online neuropsychological assessments for adults susected of having ADHD or autism. We also provide pre-surgical assessments for people seeking bariatric surgery and pain management procedures. Our therapists help people with anxiety, PTSD, depression, and relationship problems. We have several therapists who specialize in marriage counseling. We accept most major insurance plans including Passport and other Medicaid providers.
(502) 513-6418 View (502) 513-6418
Photo of Mary Charlene Norman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Charlene Norman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601  (Online Only)
My name is Charlene Norman and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in the state of Kentucky but also licensed in the state of South Carolina. I have a diverse background in social work and therapy. I am a caring person, with a positive attitude. I firmly believe in therapy and the benefits that it offers.
My name is Charlene Norman and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in the state of Kentucky but also licensed in the state of South Carolina. I have a diverse background in social work and therapy. I am a caring person, with a positive attitude. I firmly believe in therapy and the benefits that it offers.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of John Hensley, LPCC, Counselor
John Hensley
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40604
John Hensley is a licensed professional clinical counselor and national certified counselor. He received his master's degree in Counseling and Human Development and his bachelor's degree in Human Services and Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College. He utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). He works with clients ages 6 to 65 and specializes in adjustment disorder, anger management, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, depression, LGBT services, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress management.
John Hensley is a licensed professional clinical counselor and national certified counselor. He received his master's degree in Counseling and Human Development and his bachelor's degree in Human Services and Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College. He utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). He works with clients ages 6 to 65 and specializes in adjustment disorder, anger management, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, depression, LGBT services, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress management.
(502) 236-1450 View (502) 236-1450
Photo of Ryan Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601  (Online Only)
As a social worker I have over eight years in the field. Much of that time has been spent working homeless youth and refugees. I hold a Masters in Social Work from the University of Cincinnati and served in the Peace Corps for two years. As a therapist, my goal is demystify the therapy experience. Knowledge is power! Once we have a shared understanding of how therapy works and how our thoughts and beliefs contribute to our emotional well-being we will begin working on identifying ways to create subtle shifts in our thinking that can have huge benefits. I have been trained by the EMDR Institute to provide Eye Movement Desensitization
As a social worker I have over eight years in the field. Much of that time has been spent working homeless youth and refugees. I hold a Masters in Social Work from the University of Cincinnati and served in the Peace Corps for two years. As a therapist, my goal is demystify the therapy experience. Knowledge is power! Once we have a shared understanding of how therapy works and how our thoughts and beliefs contribute to our emotional well-being we will begin working on identifying ways to create subtle shifts in our thinking that can have huge benefits. I have been trained by the EMDR Institute to provide Eye Movement Desensitization
(502) 866-3287 View (502) 866-3287

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 40618

< 10

Therapists in 40618 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% Chronic Pain
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Infertility

Average years in practice

15 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Therapists in 40618 see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 40618?

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.