Photo of Laura Bartek, LIMHP, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Bartek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIMHP, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Horton, KS 66439
Life is messy, unpredictable, and challenging. At times, the struggles of today are complicated by the worries of the future or hardships of the past. Other times, we feel like our own inner-critic prevents growth and progress. I can help you break down barriers that are holding you back from enjoying the beauty in your life and finding inner peace. I truly believe we all have the capacity to change, heal, and grow. I feel passionately about helping individuals become the best and most authentic versions of themselves. Change is hard and it's also possible!
Life is messy, unpredictable, and challenging. At times, the struggles of today are complicated by the worries of the future or hardships of the past. Other times, we feel like our own inner-critic prevents growth and progress. I can help you break down barriers that are holding you back from enjoying the beauty in your life and finding inner peace. I truly believe we all have the capacity to change, heal, and grow. I feel passionately about helping individuals become the best and most authentic versions of themselves. Change is hard and it's also possible!
(402) 940-7628 View (402) 940-7628

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Grace Mulcahy, LSCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Mulcahy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Atchison, KS 66002
Not accepting new clients
My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that you are resilient. Life can be difficult. We all experience a time in life in which we could benefit from therapy. Despite the challenging circumstances you have faced or currently face, you are capable of a joy-filled life. I am a certified Perinatal Mental Health Therapist and certified EMDR therapist. I have 18 years of experience working with women, children and families. My specialties include perinatal mood disorders, anxiety and trauma work.
My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that you are resilient. Life can be difficult. We all experience a time in life in which we could benefit from therapy. Despite the challenging circumstances you have faced or currently face, you are capable of a joy-filled life. I am a certified Perinatal Mental Health Therapist and certified EMDR therapist. I have 18 years of experience working with women, children and families. My specialties include perinatal mood disorders, anxiety and trauma work.
(913) 318-6095 View (913) 318-6095
Photo of Kay Luna, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kay Luna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Atchison, KS 66002
My passion is to help you heal. Healing from trauma, anxiety, depression, as well as other difficult situations is the goal of seeking therapy. I work with individuals from every walk of life including, but not limited to first responders, teachers, homemakers, postal workers, teenagers and children. I can be that safe place for you to develop your resiliency.
My passion is to help you heal. Healing from trauma, anxiety, depression, as well as other difficult situations is the goal of seeking therapy. I work with individuals from every walk of life including, but not limited to first responders, teachers, homemakers, postal workers, teenagers and children. I can be that safe place for you to develop your resiliency.
(913) 246-5664 View (913) 246-5664
Photo of Jessica Schroeder, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Schroeder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atchison, KS 66002
You lay in bed at night wondering if your partner will ever see your pain. You feel alone, unimportant, unappreciated. You do not feel the love you once felt. Now it feels like you are just roommates. You try to talk with your partner about what is bothering you. But your partner either misses your pain or it turns into an argument. The two of you just end up further apart and more alone. You know you cannot do this anymore. The pain is too much.
You lay in bed at night wondering if your partner will ever see your pain. You feel alone, unimportant, unappreciated. You do not feel the love you once felt. Now it feels like you are just roommates. You try to talk with your partner about what is bothering you. But your partner either misses your pain or it turns into an argument. The two of you just end up further apart and more alone. You know you cannot do this anymore. The pain is too much.
(913) 938-6964 View (913) 938-6964
Photo of Tami Shefferd, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tami Shefferd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, KS 66434
Difficulties and stressful situations are a part of life. Sometimes you need someone to help you to walk through these difficulties and bounce back. My goal is to help individuals and families strengthen their ability to recover from life stressors and events in order to become more resilient to future challenges. We will work together to develop goals for how you would like this process to benefit you and identify what being resilient looks like in your life.
Difficulties and stressful situations are a part of life. Sometimes you need someone to help you to walk through these difficulties and bounce back. My goal is to help individuals and families strengthen their ability to recover from life stressors and events in order to become more resilient to future challenges. We will work together to develop goals for how you would like this process to benefit you and identify what being resilient looks like in your life.
(785) 384-9498 View (785) 384-9498
Photo of Diane Christine Rose - Diane Rose, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Rose, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Holton, KS 66436  (Online Only)
Life can get complicated. Subsequently, we can start to feel isolated, lost, over-whelmed and/or unsure of who we are or what our purpose is. Trauma, past or present, creates a sense of no longer feeling safe and hence, we may develop coping skills that may help in the moment, but prolong the pain. I will help you draw a new map and identify skills and concepts to help you better manage your life, relationships and/or careers and identify your own worth. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for your own growth can lead to long term issues for your mind and body. It's never to late to build a better life.
Life can get complicated. Subsequently, we can start to feel isolated, lost, over-whelmed and/or unsure of who we are or what our purpose is. Trauma, past or present, creates a sense of no longer feeling safe and hence, we may develop coping skills that may help in the moment, but prolong the pain. I will help you draw a new map and identify skills and concepts to help you better manage your life, relationships and/or careers and identify your own worth. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for your own growth can lead to long term issues for your mind and body. It's never to late to build a better life.
(541) 636-2146 View (541) 636-2146
Photo of Darren Bradfield, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darren Bradfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Atchison, KS 66002  (Online Only)
I believe people genuinely want to be happy and have a deeper meaning in their life. Our lives and life experiences can definitely bring hardships and stress at various points in time. There is a spectrum of healthy and unhealthy ways to cope and navigate life's stressors and anxieties. Let’s take the time to explore those factors or patterns in your life that are holding you back from your true potential. Let's explore ways to heal and healthier ways to bring more meaning and joy into your daily life.
I believe people genuinely want to be happy and have a deeper meaning in their life. Our lives and life experiences can definitely bring hardships and stress at various points in time. There is a spectrum of healthy and unhealthy ways to cope and navigate life's stressors and anxieties. Let’s take the time to explore those factors or patterns in your life that are holding you back from your true potential. Let's explore ways to heal and healthier ways to bring more meaning and joy into your daily life.
(913) 372-3551 View (913) 372-3551
Photo of Sarah M. Olson, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah M. Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hiawatha, KS 66434
Are you tired of feeling stressed and anxious, saying “yes” when you mean “no,” snapping at those you love most, overwhelmed by caregiving and professional roles? Therapy can offer a new perspective to manage these challenges. In our modern lives full of competing demands, imagine being able to hit the pause button and find calm. With skills of mindfulness, you can focus and take action in ways that reflect what you value most. Anxiety and perfectionism are not the boss of you. You are capable of finding deeper connection, greater purpose, and inner peace.
Are you tired of feeling stressed and anxious, saying “yes” when you mean “no,” snapping at those you love most, overwhelmed by caregiving and professional roles? Therapy can offer a new perspective to manage these challenges. In our modern lives full of competing demands, imagine being able to hit the pause button and find calm. With skills of mindfulness, you can focus and take action in ways that reflect what you value most. Anxiety and perfectionism are not the boss of you. You are capable of finding deeper connection, greater purpose, and inner peace.
(785) 209-3174 x2 View (785) 209-3174 x2
Photo of Laura Ann Drinkard, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Ann Drinkard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atchison, KS 66002
Having been married for 12 years and a parent for 10. I have done the very things I will ask you to do. Let me show you how to have the most amazing connection. I have grown to know intimacy without shame or fear. Sometimes, I help people divorce. If you are struggling with this decision, let me help you understand what is happening and give direction. Perhaps you and your partner want to work out your separation in my office. You don't have to be enemies and you don't have to be alone in this journey. There are times when ending a relationship is the best thing two people can do.
Having been married for 12 years and a parent for 10. I have done the very things I will ask you to do. Let me show you how to have the most amazing connection. I have grown to know intimacy without shame or fear. Sometimes, I help people divorce. If you are struggling with this decision, let me help you understand what is happening and give direction. Perhaps you and your partner want to work out your separation in my office. You don't have to be enemies and you don't have to be alone in this journey. There are times when ending a relationship is the best thing two people can do.
(913) 361-6836 View (913) 361-6836
Photo of Vanessa Groves, LMSW
Vanessa Groves
Master Social Worker , LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atchison, KS 66002
You have been struggling with life challenges and relationship difficulties, and you are needing a safe place to process these challenges. You may be feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and frustrated from trying many different things, and nothing seems to work. Vanessa partners with you to find new ways to support you and your family to develop a deeper understanding of how these challenges have impacted your daily life and find ways to cope. Whether you’re struggling in your relationship, your family, or with individual situations, Vanessa is a safe and warm counselor to guide you on your journey.
You have been struggling with life challenges and relationship difficulties, and you are needing a safe place to process these challenges. You may be feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and frustrated from trying many different things, and nothing seems to work. Vanessa partners with you to find new ways to support you and your family to develop a deeper understanding of how these challenges have impacted your daily life and find ways to cope. Whether you’re struggling in your relationship, your family, or with individual situations, Vanessa is a safe and warm counselor to guide you on your journey.
(816) 208-9418 View (816) 208-9418
Photo of Joycelyn G Parish Ph.D, PhD, LCP, CTRTC
Joycelyn G Parish Ph.D
PhD, LCP, CTRTC
Verified Verified
Holton, KS 66436
As a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist, Board Certified PTSD Clinician, and Certified Reality Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, families and groups using interventions designed to strengthen individuals, couples, marriages, and families and to increase personal/familial happiness. Issues addressed include adjustment disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship issues, developmental issues and concerns, and family/parenting issues and concerns.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist, Board Certified PTSD Clinician, and Certified Reality Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, families and groups using interventions designed to strengthen individuals, couples, marriages, and families and to increase personal/familial happiness. Issues addressed include adjustment disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship issues, developmental issues and concerns, and family/parenting issues and concerns.
(785) 859-4018 View (785) 859-4018
Photo of Jamie Lee Jacobs, MSEd, LIMHP, Counselor
Jamie Lee Jacobs
Counselor, MSEd, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, KS 66434
As your therapist, a graduate of UNK's master's program with an emphasis in community counseling, I will provide a safe environment for any individual or groups (i.e., mental health, substance abuse, families). It is in this capacity that you can begin the journey of collaboration to overcome and begin living a holistic life. The scope of 15 plus years of experience ranges across a multiple spectrum that includes but not limited to, families, couples, drug courts, school settings, anger management, and military consultant. The needs of the client will determine the individualized integrated therapeutic approach.
As your therapist, a graduate of UNK's master's program with an emphasis in community counseling, I will provide a safe environment for any individual or groups (i.e., mental health, substance abuse, families). It is in this capacity that you can begin the journey of collaboration to overcome and begin living a holistic life. The scope of 15 plus years of experience ranges across a multiple spectrum that includes but not limited to, families, couples, drug courts, school settings, anger management, and military consultant. The needs of the client will determine the individualized integrated therapeutic approach.
(404) 975-1967 View (404) 975-1967
Photo of Tiffany Blevins, LSCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Blevins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holton, KS 66436  (Online Only)
Are you needing some extra support? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Maybe there is something specific that you are struggling with? If so, I would be honored to provide you support. I am available for online therapy both weeknights and weekends, in the comfort of your home or wherever you are. I am licensed in Kansas with more than 20 years of experience with those who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief and loss as well as other life transitions.
Are you needing some extra support? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Maybe there is something specific that you are struggling with? If so, I would be honored to provide you support. I am available for online therapy both weeknights and weekends, in the comfort of your home or wherever you are. I am licensed in Kansas with more than 20 years of experience with those who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, grief and loss as well as other life transitions.
(785) 509-3741 View (785) 509-3741
Photo of Sara Garrett, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Sabetha, KS 66534
To be human is to struggle. Your struggle is real to you and it is real to me. There is a profound importance to feeling safe when opening up to what you're struggling with. When we feel safe in opening up we can work towards goals, which can improve overall personal growth. I want to come alongside you and together help you gain insight, skills and strength to make positive changes within your life.
To be human is to struggle. Your struggle is real to you and it is real to me. There is a profound importance to feeling safe when opening up to what you're struggling with. When we feel safe in opening up we can work towards goals, which can improve overall personal growth. I want to come alongside you and together help you gain insight, skills and strength to make positive changes within your life.
(785) 783-6239 View (785) 783-6239
Photo of Jessica P. Snyder - Psychological Health Services, LLC, MA, LCP
Psychological Health Services, LLC
MA, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holton, KS 66436
Just surviving is a far cry from a truly thriving existence. When every day feels hard and you find yourself tethered to the past and to your pain, you begin doing whatever it takes to "just get by." There is more than that available to you and you deserve better. Maybe you’re not stuck but are just in transition to the thriving life that you deserve. We will provide the support you need to move into your best life. We would be honored to work with you as you progress toward your goals. We know seeking therapy is a difficult decision to make, but our professional experience has taught us that no one ever regrets taking the journey.
Just surviving is a far cry from a truly thriving existence. When every day feels hard and you find yourself tethered to the past and to your pain, you begin doing whatever it takes to "just get by." There is more than that available to you and you deserve better. Maybe you’re not stuck but are just in transition to the thriving life that you deserve. We will provide the support you need to move into your best life. We would be honored to work with you as you progress toward your goals. We know seeking therapy is a difficult decision to make, but our professional experience has taught us that no one ever regrets taking the journey.
(785) 850-9235 View (785) 850-9235
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Madden, LCMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jennifer Madden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Atchison, KS 66002
Feeling overwhelmed? From day-to-day struggles to major life events, too often we feel anxious, exhausted, and alone. Finding a space where you feel safe, where you can speak and be heard, can make a meaningful difference in your life and how you feel. I work with children, teens, and adults, to explore and process challenges, and to find peace in the midst of turmoil.
Feeling overwhelmed? From day-to-day struggles to major life events, too often we feel anxious, exhausted, and alone. Finding a space where you feel safe, where you can speak and be heard, can make a meaningful difference in your life and how you feel. I work with children, teens, and adults, to explore and process challenges, and to find peace in the midst of turmoil.
(913) 914-8366 View (913) 914-8366
Photo of Tara Fields - T Fields Trauma Therapy and Training, MSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
T Fields Trauma Therapy and Training
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, KS 66434
I focus on trauma initially because what I have found in over 6 years of work as a trauma therapist, is that so much of our present concerns and limitations is rooted in trauma exposure and history. This lends itself to unhealthy patterns of avoidance, hypervigilance/hyperarousal, disturbance in mood and cognitions. and being inundated with intrusions and flashbacks. Many patients that have struggled with years with anxiety and or depressive episodes really have suffered from trauma that has not yet been dealt with. T Fields Trauma Therapy is for you if this describes you! Please also ask about a new service: Medication Management!
I focus on trauma initially because what I have found in over 6 years of work as a trauma therapist, is that so much of our present concerns and limitations is rooted in trauma exposure and history. This lends itself to unhealthy patterns of avoidance, hypervigilance/hyperarousal, disturbance in mood and cognitions. and being inundated with intrusions and flashbacks. Many patients that have struggled with years with anxiety and or depressive episodes really have suffered from trauma that has not yet been dealt with. T Fields Trauma Therapy is for you if this describes you! Please also ask about a new service: Medication Management!
(785) 310-2849 View (785) 310-2849
Photo of Ellen Beier, PLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ellen Beier
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMFT
Verified Verified
Atchison, KS 66002
We all reach points in our lives where what we know so far has left us stuck. Maybe we are stuck in our valued relationships, or simply within ourselves, with old stories and emotions we wish could move and change. If you are seeking therapy today, congratulations! You are already moving toward gaining a new perspective toward yourself and your relationships. Maybe you have a specific goal in mind-- perhaps to change a dynamic in your marriage or with your your children. Maybe you want to relieve a symptom-- depression, anxiety or a habit you can't change. Maybe you just have the vague sense that parts of your self got left behind.
We all reach points in our lives where what we know so far has left us stuck. Maybe we are stuck in our valued relationships, or simply within ourselves, with old stories and emotions we wish could move and change. If you are seeking therapy today, congratulations! You are already moving toward gaining a new perspective toward yourself and your relationships. Maybe you have a specific goal in mind-- perhaps to change a dynamic in your marriage or with your your children. Maybe you want to relieve a symptom-- depression, anxiety or a habit you can't change. Maybe you just have the vague sense that parts of your self got left behind.
(816) 339-5672 View (816) 339-5672
Photo of Meredith Ernzen - Ernzen Counseling & Wellness LLC, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ernzen Counseling & Wellness LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atchison, KS 66002
Waitlist for new clients
The world is full of stress and each individual sees the world and their stress uniquely. I believe that there is no one-size-fits all approach to therapy and I prioritize meeting the individual where they are. A client's self-awareness and choices are key to developing self-direction and independence. My techniques will include interventions from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Narrative, Emotion Focused and other systemic approaches. I believe success in counseling comes from a strong rapport and trustworthy working relationship between counselor and client. I operate from a strengths-based and encouragement-focused approach.
The world is full of stress and each individual sees the world and their stress uniquely. I believe that there is no one-size-fits all approach to therapy and I prioritize meeting the individual where they are. A client's self-awareness and choices are key to developing self-direction and independence. My techniques will include interventions from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Narrative, Emotion Focused and other systemic approaches. I believe success in counseling comes from a strong rapport and trustworthy working relationship between counselor and client. I operate from a strengths-based and encouragement-focused approach.
(785) 264-4726 View (785) 264-4726
Photo of Eric J Parks - HOPE Family Therapy, Inc, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
HOPE Family Therapy, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atchison, KS 66002
At HOPE Family Therapy, we strive to provide quality care that is affordable to as many people as possible in Atchison and the surrounding area. We work with individual, couple, and family concerns that cover a wide variety of issues. We look at how each of our individual experiences and challenges interact with others and how that affects our ability to be in satisfying relationships. We collaborate with other professionals to help with concerns around anxiety, depression and trauma. We are trained in helping with concerns around self-harming and suicidal ideations. We look forward to joining you on your journey of change.
At HOPE Family Therapy, we strive to provide quality care that is affordable to as many people as possible in Atchison and the surrounding area. We work with individual, couple, and family concerns that cover a wide variety of issues. We look at how each of our individual experiences and challenges interact with others and how that affects our ability to be in satisfying relationships. We collaborate with other professionals to help with concerns around anxiety, depression and trauma. We are trained in helping with concerns around self-harming and suicidal ideations. We look forward to joining you on your journey of change.
(913) 305-3896 View (913) 305-3896

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 66439

< 10

Therapists in 66439 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Eating Disorders
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Substance Use

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Medica

How Therapists in 66439 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 66439?

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.