Photo of Tonya K Ricklefs, PhD, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tonya K Ricklefs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
I enjoy working with people to provide services where they feel they can be their genuine self. I love working with people who have complex issues that we can work together to take one step at a time. Mental health is an ongoing process that involves work and self discovery. I work in a variety of areas involving veterans, military, divorce, parenting, sexual health, sexual orientation, and gender issues.
I enjoy working with people to provide services where they feel they can be their genuine self. I love working with people who have complex issues that we can work together to take one step at a time. Mental health is an ongoing process that involves work and self discovery. I work in a variety of areas involving veterans, military, divorce, parenting, sexual health, sexual orientation, and gender issues.
(785) 524-2481 View (785) 524-2481
Photo of Bryan Redmon - Bryan Redmon, Lmsw LLC., LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bryan Redmon, Lmsw LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611  (Online Only)
Specializing in depression and anxiety, I intend to help people who experience a range of life stressors, anxieties, traumas, behavioral issues, mental illness, and other emotional disturbances/barriers. We will collaborate to create a plan for addressing these issues in a way that helps you get your life back. Not all processes are the same, however, you will not have to journey through these processes alone. We will process the issues you want to work on at a pace that is comfortable for you and feels safe for you.
Specializing in depression and anxiety, I intend to help people who experience a range of life stressors, anxieties, traumas, behavioral issues, mental illness, and other emotional disturbances/barriers. We will collaborate to create a plan for addressing these issues in a way that helps you get your life back. Not all processes are the same, however, you will not have to journey through these processes alone. We will process the issues you want to work on at a pace that is comfortable for you and feels safe for you.
(785) 347-5009 View (785) 347-5009
Photo of Zinaia L Armstead, AAS, BAS, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zinaia L Armstead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AAS, BAS, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Life can be challenging and the experiences along the way can cause stress, anxiety, and depression to name a few mental health issues that may affect your everyday life. In therapy, I understand the importance of having someone to talk to about issues and experiences in life. You will be met with respect, empathy, genuineness, supportive and active listening, and unconditional positive regard. Together we will work on your goals for therapy. You will be met where you are in the therapeutic journey, and be provided a safe environment to express your feelings, thoughts, challenges, and concerns.
Life can be challenging and the experiences along the way can cause stress, anxiety, and depression to name a few mental health issues that may affect your everyday life. In therapy, I understand the importance of having someone to talk to about issues and experiences in life. You will be met with respect, empathy, genuineness, supportive and active listening, and unconditional positive regard. Together we will work on your goals for therapy. You will be met where you are in the therapeutic journey, and be provided a safe environment to express your feelings, thoughts, challenges, and concerns.
(785) 264-4662 View (785) 264-4662
Photo of Annette Bartel, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annette Bartel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Respect, trust, and collaboration to find solutions that really work. I believe the best treatment is a collaborative effort between you and your therapist. Sometimes people develop patterns of relating to others that are not conducive to experiencing happiness in their day to day life. As I get information about your specific struggles, we'll develop a plan together to address changes in behaviors to successfully negotiate the changes you want to make.
Respect, trust, and collaboration to find solutions that really work. I believe the best treatment is a collaborative effort between you and your therapist. Sometimes people develop patterns of relating to others that are not conducive to experiencing happiness in their day to day life. As I get information about your specific struggles, we'll develop a plan together to address changes in behaviors to successfully negotiate the changes you want to make.
(785) 527-9436 View (785) 527-9436
Photo of Kathy L Jones-Parks - Kathy Jones-Parks Counseling Services, LSCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy Jones-Parks Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
I treat clients dealing with a variety of issues including anxiety, anger management,depression,grief and unresolved loss,and substance abuse. My clinical interest include co-dependency, parenting issues and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder management. My aim is to help clients find individualized and workable solutions to mental health concerns.
I treat clients dealing with a variety of issues including anxiety, anger management,depression,grief and unresolved loss,and substance abuse. My clinical interest include co-dependency, parenting issues and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder management. My aim is to help clients find individualized and workable solutions to mental health concerns.
(785) 783-6296 View (785) 783-6296
Photo of Daniel Patrick Lassley, MS, LPC-KS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Patrick Lassley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-KS
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
I work with adults who are experiencing difficult emotions and life situations. I also work with those who want to improve the quality of their relationships. People struggling with issues from disability or chronic illness.
I work with adults who are experiencing difficult emotions and life situations. I also work with those who want to improve the quality of their relationships. People struggling with issues from disability or chronic illness.
(785) 367-3466 View (785) 367-3466
Photo of Thomas S Bartlett, PsyD, Psychologist
Thomas S Bartlett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Not accepting new clients
"I work with each client to develop a treatment approach that meets their goals and individual requirements. I believe that people are more than a diagnosis or static label and my work places an emphasis on the person with a challenge rather than simply focus on the challenge alone. The therapeutic process is more than helping a person to develop positive thinking or an optimistic attitude, but involves helping the person gain an understanding of how they can approach the world to obtain the greatest satisfaction from their relationships, their work and their life in general."
"I work with each client to develop a treatment approach that meets their goals and individual requirements. I believe that people are more than a diagnosis or static label and my work places an emphasis on the person with a challenge rather than simply focus on the challenge alone. The therapeutic process is more than helping a person to develop positive thinking or an optimistic attitude, but involves helping the person gain an understanding of how they can approach the world to obtain the greatest satisfaction from their relationships, their work and their life in general."
(785) 260-2747 View (785) 260-2747
Photo of Raemona L Webb, MSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raemona L Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Not accepting new clients
I like to use a collaborative approach when working with clients, and make every effort to creat a supportive environment in which the individual might discover untapped potential and inner strength. I have experience providing brief solution focused therapy, as well as extended treatment for serious psychological disorders. I believe that every person has unique talents and gifts, and an inherent right to self-expression. I believe that families come in all shapes, sizes, and gender configurations. I believe that children should be seen, heard, and believed.
I like to use a collaborative approach when working with clients, and make every effort to creat a supportive environment in which the individual might discover untapped potential and inner strength. I have experience providing brief solution focused therapy, as well as extended treatment for serious psychological disorders. I believe that every person has unique talents and gifts, and an inherent right to self-expression. I believe that families come in all shapes, sizes, and gender configurations. I believe that children should be seen, heard, and believed.
(785) 734-0973 View (785) 734-0973
Photo of Jennifer Anderson, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Like many of us, most of my clients are seeking greater meaning in their lives, improved connection and satisfaction in relationships, and relief from loneliness, worry, rumination, and shame. My practice is based on values that emphasize acceptance/non-judgment, compassion, and authenticity. Starting therapy doesn't need to have a rigid plan or agenda. Simply being curious or wanting to feel better is a great place to start. We all need a space where we don't feel judged and are free to explore who we are, what we want, and who we want to become.
Like many of us, most of my clients are seeking greater meaning in their lives, improved connection and satisfaction in relationships, and relief from loneliness, worry, rumination, and shame. My practice is based on values that emphasize acceptance/non-judgment, compassion, and authenticity. Starting therapy doesn't need to have a rigid plan or agenda. Simply being curious or wanting to feel better is a great place to start. We all need a space where we don't feel judged and are free to explore who we are, what we want, and who we want to become.
(785) 630-8465 View (785) 630-8465
Photo of Bethany Hirsh-Street, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bethany Hirsh-Street
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with clients of all stages of life from toddler to adulthood. I work with individuals and families. I help clients address issues such as anxiety, trauma, depression, problematic behavior, parenting, and interpersonal stressors. I help them work through their stressors to find peace and healthier functioning.
I enjoy working with clients of all stages of life from toddler to adulthood. I work with individuals and families. I help clients address issues such as anxiety, trauma, depression, problematic behavior, parenting, and interpersonal stressors. I help them work through their stressors to find peace and healthier functioning.
(785) 470-3256 View (785) 470-3256
Photo of Mario R. Lopez, MSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mario R. Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Challenges in life are essential to human growth and development, but sometimes these stressful events in life can become overwhelming. Anxiety, depressed moods, anger, irritability, acting out and even addictive and/or compulsive type behaviors are natural responses once internal coping skills have been exhausted. These symptoms can have devastating effects on relationships, work and many other life domains. However, with the assistance of a skilled therapist, these symptoms can be managed and relief is possible.
Challenges in life are essential to human growth and development, but sometimes these stressful events in life can become overwhelming. Anxiety, depressed moods, anger, irritability, acting out and even addictive and/or compulsive type behaviors are natural responses once internal coping skills have been exhausted. These symptoms can have devastating effects on relationships, work and many other life domains. However, with the assistance of a skilled therapist, these symptoms can be managed and relief is possible.
(785) 384-6327 View (785) 384-6327
Photo of Art McKenna, PhD, PsyD, Psychologist
Art McKenna
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
My therapy & counseling are based on the life experiences and the philosophy of Viktor Frankl. His writings describe the kinds of the situation from which he and his fellow prisoners at Auschwitz were able, on a day-to-day basis, to extract the life-sustaining meaning that was essential to their survival. My therapy has three levels: (1) use mindfulness and relaxation methods to calm the emotional brain down, and (2) use cognitive-behavioral to develop a healthy sense of resiliency. In the 3rd stage, you will learn self-distancing techniques to discover meaningfulness at the moment and find better ways to expand your uniqueness.
My therapy & counseling are based on the life experiences and the philosophy of Viktor Frankl. His writings describe the kinds of the situation from which he and his fellow prisoners at Auschwitz were able, on a day-to-day basis, to extract the life-sustaining meaning that was essential to their survival. My therapy has three levels: (1) use mindfulness and relaxation methods to calm the emotional brain down, and (2) use cognitive-behavioral to develop a healthy sense of resiliency. In the 3rd stage, you will learn self-distancing techniques to discover meaningfulness at the moment and find better ways to expand your uniqueness.
(785) 509-7915 View (785) 509-7915
Photo of Ira Stamm, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Ira Stamm
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
I am an experienced therapist with many years of treating patients. If you would like to discuss working with me, please e-mail me the following information: Age, occupation/profession, family status, and the problem for which you are seeking help. I accept Blue Cross, traditional Medicare Part B, and self-pay. I am currently seeing clients via Teletherapy - a process which is helpful to most clients. My orientation is common sense, practical, psychodynamic therapy - blended with several other meaningful viewpoints about the problems people encounter. In our first meeting I will listen to your personal story (history).
I am an experienced therapist with many years of treating patients. If you would like to discuss working with me, please e-mail me the following information: Age, occupation/profession, family status, and the problem for which you are seeking help. I accept Blue Cross, traditional Medicare Part B, and self-pay. I am currently seeing clients via Teletherapy - a process which is helpful to most clients. My orientation is common sense, practical, psychodynamic therapy - blended with several other meaningful viewpoints about the problems people encounter. In our first meeting I will listen to your personal story (history).
(785) 470-4016 View (785) 470-4016
Photo of Emma Alhezayen, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Alhezayen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Emma Alhezayen completed her Master of Social Work degree from Washburn University and she is a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW). Her specialized training includes Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), clinical assessments, Master DSM-5 Key Changes, neuroscience, and treating Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Since 2017, Emma has been completing coursework to obtain her Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) credentials and will receive her license in 2020. In addition, Ms. Alhezayen is working on her Doctorate in Psychology, PsyD with an emphasis on psychotherapy and counseling.
Emma Alhezayen completed her Master of Social Work degree from Washburn University and she is a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW). Her specialized training includes Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), clinical assessments, Master DSM-5 Key Changes, neuroscience, and treating Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Since 2017, Emma has been completing coursework to obtain her Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) credentials and will receive her license in 2020. In addition, Ms. Alhezayen is working on her Doctorate in Psychology, PsyD with an emphasis on psychotherapy and counseling.
(785) 504-1621 View (785) 504-1621
Photo of Mitchell A Skidmore, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mitchell A Skidmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Do you feel unsure of who you are now? Perhaps you are going through a transition in your life and trying to understand how to get along. Maybe you feel like you aren’t yourself because of intense, persistent feelings of some kind. Maybe your past is dragging you down. Maybe your relationships at home, work, or in your community are not as satisfying as you wish they could be. You’re starting to think, you need an outside perspective; It’s hard to sort through this alone. These thoughts have got you asking, “Will psychotherapy help? Can it really change things? Is it worth it?”
Do you feel unsure of who you are now? Perhaps you are going through a transition in your life and trying to understand how to get along. Maybe you feel like you aren’t yourself because of intense, persistent feelings of some kind. Maybe your past is dragging you down. Maybe your relationships at home, work, or in your community are not as satisfying as you wish they could be. You’re starting to think, you need an outside perspective; It’s hard to sort through this alone. These thoughts have got you asking, “Will psychotherapy help? Can it really change things? Is it worth it?”
(785) 384-8691 View (785) 384-8691
Photo of Angela D McClain, LCPC, LCAC, LIMHP, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela D McClain
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LCAC, LIMHP, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Welcome. So glad you stopped by :) Feeling challenged, depressive, anxious, or unsupported? If so, I'd feel privileged to walk alongside you in your journey of self-discovery & healing. I'm extremely passionate about working w/ my clients & believe my passion shines through, creating an effective, empathetic therapeutic relationship. I am highly skilled in anxiety, mood, personality, anxiety, addiction disorders, PTSD, and relationship challenges. Too often, we don't place our well-being as a priority, but we SHOULD, because it WILL make a difference in your life. My focus is ALWAYS on YOU b/c YOU are who matters the most!!! :)
Welcome. So glad you stopped by :) Feeling challenged, depressive, anxious, or unsupported? If so, I'd feel privileged to walk alongside you in your journey of self-discovery & healing. I'm extremely passionate about working w/ my clients & believe my passion shines through, creating an effective, empathetic therapeutic relationship. I am highly skilled in anxiety, mood, personality, anxiety, addiction disorders, PTSD, and relationship challenges. Too often, we don't place our well-being as a priority, but we SHOULD, because it WILL make a difference in your life. My focus is ALWAYS on YOU b/c YOU are who matters the most!!! :)
(785) 337-4586 View (785) 337-4586
Photo of Jason Gardner, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66611
If you have found my page, you or someone you know are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger or some other stressor. Therapy is useful as it will help you develop new ways to manage these issues especially in the way you think about them. Helping people learn about themselves and grow is my passion. Discarding old patterns of behavior/thinking and developing new one's will be the primary goal while working together. I find this to be very exciting and somewhat challenging but definitely worth all the effort in the end.
If you have found my page, you or someone you know are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger or some other stressor. Therapy is useful as it will help you develop new ways to manage these issues especially in the way you think about them. Helping people learn about themselves and grow is my passion. Discarding old patterns of behavior/thinking and developing new one's will be the primary goal while working together. I find this to be very exciting and somewhat challenging but definitely worth all the effort in the end.
(785) 859-4330 View (785) 859-4330
Photo of April Neff, LSCSW, MSW, BSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April Neff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66611
Do you have a teen with anxiety, depression, or your just struggling to communicate with? I can help with this! But first you need to know one number. 167. That's what I need from you. We can meet 1 hour a week every week, but we both know that you're going to be working hard the other 167 hours to make our work a reality. Is that what your looking for? Discussing change is easy, when your ready to connect with your kid again and build them the life they deserve. I'm here to help.
Do you have a teen with anxiety, depression, or your just struggling to communicate with? I can help with this! But first you need to know one number. 167. That's what I need from you. We can meet 1 hour a week every week, but we both know that you're going to be working hard the other 167 hours to make our work a reality. Is that what your looking for? Discussing change is easy, when your ready to connect with your kid again and build them the life they deserve. I'm here to help.
(785) 336-5583 View (785) 336-5583
Photo of Robert G Heckler, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert G Heckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Practicing in mental health for 41 years; hospitals, group homes, community mental health and private practice. Worked with all populations, with every kind of problem and type of mental disorder. Recent focus on ages23-75, with trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and relationships, incorporating mindfulness, relaxation and anger management and doing thorough, ongoing assessments. Clients who use substances are asked to abstain while in therapy. Changing the brain requires that. Regular attendance is necessary. Positive skills come with practice and consistency. To maintain the progress, there are avenues for contact during the week.
Practicing in mental health for 41 years; hospitals, group homes, community mental health and private practice. Worked with all populations, with every kind of problem and type of mental disorder. Recent focus on ages23-75, with trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and relationships, incorporating mindfulness, relaxation and anger management and doing thorough, ongoing assessments. Clients who use substances are asked to abstain while in therapy. Changing the brain requires that. Regular attendance is necessary. Positive skills come with practice and consistency. To maintain the progress, there are avenues for contact during the week.
(785) 579-9952 View (785) 579-9952
Photo of Jennifer Bidwell, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Bidwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66611
Jennifer Betts said, "While some climb mountains, others are carrying them." You are struggling, in pain, suffering & yet don't feel like you can find a way out or forward. Perhaps you've lost someone or something that was important to you. Maybe the weight of traumas, physical or emotional wounds, betrayals, or feelings of inadequacy & worthlessness are pulling you under despite all your efforts to be strong & hold on. You may not even be able to pinpoint what exactly you are feeling or why because everything is so jumbled and intertwined that sorting it out feels like a Herculean task. And, sometimes, life is just really hard.
Jennifer Betts said, "While some climb mountains, others are carrying them." You are struggling, in pain, suffering & yet don't feel like you can find a way out or forward. Perhaps you've lost someone or something that was important to you. Maybe the weight of traumas, physical or emotional wounds, betrayals, or feelings of inadequacy & worthlessness are pulling you under despite all your efforts to be strong & hold on. You may not even be able to pinpoint what exactly you are feeling or why because everything is so jumbled and intertwined that sorting it out feels like a Herculean task. And, sometimes, life is just really hard.
(785) 347-6736 View (785) 347-6736

See more therapy options for 66611

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 66611

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 66611 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
86% Relationship Issues
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Self Esteem
73% Grief
68% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
61% Medicaid
56% Sunflower Health Plan

How Therapists in 66611 see their clients

91% In Person and Online
9% Online Only

Gender breakdown

53% Female
47% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 66611?

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.