Photo of Christa Maurer, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Christa Maurer
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who strives to help individuals work through life's negative experiences. Therapy is a safe, non-judgmental space that allows individuals to be vulnerable so they can heal and grow. Brene Brown stated, "only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of light."
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who strives to help individuals work through life's negative experiences. Therapy is a safe, non-judgmental space that allows individuals to be vulnerable so they can heal and grow. Brene Brown stated, "only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of light."
(985) 531-8497 View (985) 531-8497
Photo of Maddison Gruenig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maddison Gruenig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mandeville, LA 70448
Being vulnerable and reaching out for help takes strength. I aspire to work with you to set attainable goals to improve not only your mental wellbeing but your life overall! Creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship will make all the difference in our work together. Are you struggling or stuck? Navigating life’s challenges and changes can be difficult to do alone. I support my clients with setting attainable goals while fostering a compassionate, nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship. We will work together to uncover ways to reach your goals and work toward them at a pace that feels safe and supportive.
Being vulnerable and reaching out for help takes strength. I aspire to work with you to set attainable goals to improve not only your mental wellbeing but your life overall! Creating a compassionate, nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship will make all the difference in our work together. Are you struggling or stuck? Navigating life’s challenges and changes can be difficult to do alone. I support my clients with setting attainable goals while fostering a compassionate, nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship. We will work together to uncover ways to reach your goals and work toward them at a pace that feels safe and supportive.
(985) 602-4425 View (985) 602-4425
Photo of Jennifer Bacile, MS, LPC, NCC, CH, CT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Bacile
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CH, CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mandeville, LA 70448
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to The Gray Couch, LLC. The Gray Couch is a place to rest, exhale, and put down the heavy stuff in a place where you can be heard, met with empathy and understanding, and receive validation. You can be you in a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space and have some help building and navigating your way toward the person you want to be.
Welcome to The Gray Couch, LLC. The Gray Couch is a place to rest, exhale, and put down the heavy stuff in a place where you can be heard, met with empathy and understanding, and receive validation. You can be you in a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space and have some help building and navigating your way toward the person you want to be.
(985) 465-3265 View (985) 465-3265
Patrick Michael Dowd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LAC, CCS
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
I am an Addictions Specialist and I have worked in the field of addictions counseling for over twenty-five years. My practice focus is healing the family system when addictions are present and breaking the cycle of addiction. My services offered include, but not limited to: addiction counseling, addiction education, interventions, individual therapy, family and couples therapy, prevention for at risk children, and addiction assessments and evaluations.
I am an Addictions Specialist and I have worked in the field of addictions counseling for over twenty-five years. My practice focus is healing the family system when addictions are present and breaking the cycle of addiction. My services offered include, but not limited to: addiction counseling, addiction education, interventions, individual therapy, family and couples therapy, prevention for at risk children, and addiction assessments and evaluations.
(985) 200-2766 View (985) 200-2766
Photo of Northlake Behavioral Health System - Northlake Behavioral Health System
Northlake utilizes evidence-based practices to provide the most effective treatment model in caring for you or a loved one. Our compassionate, experienced and trained staff of professionals provide excellent care in a therapeutic and safe environment that fosters healing for our patients. We believe that every patient is unique and we respect your different backgrounds and experiences when developing your individualized treatment plan to meet your needs. Northlake’s unique partnerships with local educational institutions allows us to ensure excellent medical and psychiatric treatment in a safe and secure environment. Our individualized units with specialized treatment programming ensures that each patient receives excellent care. Our dedicated team of professionals are here to assist you on your road to recovery.
Northlake utilizes evidence-based practices to provide the most effective treatment model in caring for you or a loved one. Our compassionate, experienced and trained staff of professionals provide excellent care in a therapeutic and safe environment that fosters healing for our patients. We believe that every patient is unique and we respect your different backgrounds and experiences when developing your individualized treatment plan to meet your needs. Northlake’s unique partnerships with local educational institutions allows us to ensure excellent medical and psychiatric treatment in a safe and secure environment. Our individualized units with specialized treatment programming ensures that each patient receives excellent care. Our dedicated team of professionals are here to assist you on your road to recovery.
(985) 322-6803 View (985) 322-6803
Photo of Renee Booker - Up Therapy LLC, MSW, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Up Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448  (Online Only)
Do feelings of anxiety and depression weigh you down? Often people don't realize how much mental health issues are affecting them until they start to feel better. Many clients I work with have struggled with feeling worried, sad, or experiencing low energy. Others were coping with major life transitions and sought therapy when they were feeling overwhelmed. I have several years of experience in applying effective therapy techniques that can help you find relief from these and other concerns. Plus, therapy isn't only about feeling better, it can also help you develop a life that's more worth living.
Do feelings of anxiety and depression weigh you down? Often people don't realize how much mental health issues are affecting them until they start to feel better. Many clients I work with have struggled with feeling worried, sad, or experiencing low energy. Others were coping with major life transitions and sought therapy when they were feeling overwhelmed. I have several years of experience in applying effective therapy techniques that can help you find relief from these and other concerns. Plus, therapy isn't only about feeling better, it can also help you develop a life that's more worth living.
(504) 676-6071 View (504) 676-6071
Photo of Lauren Brignac, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Brignac
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
Greetings! My name is Lauren Brignac and I have 21 years of experience working as a counselor with people of all ages, children to adults. I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Together, we will work to identify the root causes of your challenges, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience so that you can thrive. Whether you are simply looking to improve your overall mental health or searching for support during a difficult life transition, I am here to help.
Greetings! My name is Lauren Brignac and I have 21 years of experience working as a counselor with people of all ages, children to adults. I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Together, we will work to identify the root causes of your challenges, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience so that you can thrive. Whether you are simply looking to improve your overall mental health or searching for support during a difficult life transition, I am here to help.
(985) 276-0915 View (985) 276-0915
Photo of Johanna Landry, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Johanna Landry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mandeville, LA 70448  (Online Only)
Hi there! If you’re browsing through this website, I assume you or someone you know is looking for help. This first step of finding and asking for help can sometimes be the hardest because you may feel scared, vulnerable, or just don't know what to expect. My promise to you is to do my best to settle any fears about counseling and create an environment where you’ll feel safe to talk about whatever it is that feels too much to handle alone. Clients tell me that they feel very comfortable talking with me. I work with adults of all ages.
Hi there! If you’re browsing through this website, I assume you or someone you know is looking for help. This first step of finding and asking for help can sometimes be the hardest because you may feel scared, vulnerable, or just don't know what to expect. My promise to you is to do my best to settle any fears about counseling and create an environment where you’ll feel safe to talk about whatever it is that feels too much to handle alone. Clients tell me that they feel very comfortable talking with me. I work with adults of all ages.
(337) 317-4533 View (337) 317-4533
Photo of Dr. Reid Doster, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Reid Doster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448  (Online Only)
It takes courage to ask for help, especially from someone you don't know. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and clinical pastoral counselor, I work with individuals, couples and families to resolve common human problems. I believe you will benefit from my clinical competence, experience and maturity gained from over forty years in practice, and will quickly realize I sincerely care about you. When you reach out to me, I will do my best to respond promptly, without your waiting too long for an appointment. Don't be surprised if I personally answer the phone.
It takes courage to ask for help, especially from someone you don't know. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and clinical pastoral counselor, I work with individuals, couples and families to resolve common human problems. I believe you will benefit from my clinical competence, experience and maturity gained from over forty years in practice, and will quickly realize I sincerely care about you. When you reach out to me, I will do my best to respond promptly, without your waiting too long for an appointment. Don't be surprised if I personally answer the phone.
(985) 520-0474 View (985) 520-0474
Photo of Jennifer K Walkenford, LAC, CCS, NCC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jennifer K Walkenford
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
I am an alcohol and drug treatment counselor and certified clinical supervisor. I work with clients struggling with substance abuse as well as working with clients struggling with co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, and family issues.
I am an alcohol and drug treatment counselor and certified clinical supervisor. I work with clients struggling with substance abuse as well as working with clients struggling with co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, and family issues.
(985) 322-5823 x117 View (985) 322-5823 x117
Photo of Nathan Jamison, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathan Jamison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
Nathan has been providing mental health services since 2015. He provides positive mentorship to adolescent and teenaged clients by helping them with their behaviors and emotions and by teaching them the skills necessary for success into adulthood. He provides his adult clients with support in overcoming life's challenges, guidance through relationship difficulties, and with developing a better sense of personal well being. When working with families he uses a collaborative problem solving and educational approach to strengthen the entire family dynamic.
Nathan has been providing mental health services since 2015. He provides positive mentorship to adolescent and teenaged clients by helping them with their behaviors and emotions and by teaching them the skills necessary for success into adulthood. He provides his adult clients with support in overcoming life's challenges, guidance through relationship difficulties, and with developing a better sense of personal well being. When working with families he uses a collaborative problem solving and educational approach to strengthen the entire family dynamic.
(985) 202-5918 View (985) 202-5918
Photo of Dr. Pete Cooper, PhD, LPC-S, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Pete Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, CLC
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
Dr. Pete Cooper holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Studies and is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Louisiana and a Certified Life Coach. He has been practicing in the mental health profession for over 25 years and primarily works with individuals struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship and marital issues and those in the midst of life transitions. Dr. Cooper takes an eclectic approach in helping others by effectively tailoring what each individual's struggles are, in tandem with what their personality type is and what goals they want to achieve.
Dr. Pete Cooper holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Studies and is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Louisiana and a Certified Life Coach. He has been practicing in the mental health profession for over 25 years and primarily works with individuals struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship and marital issues and those in the midst of life transitions. Dr. Cooper takes an eclectic approach in helping others by effectively tailoring what each individual's struggles are, in tandem with what their personality type is and what goals they want to achieve.
(985) 777-3184 View (985) 777-3184
Photo of Scott M Borne, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott M Borne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
With over 20 years experience in mental health and wellness, my expertise includes a wide range of therapeutic intervention with age ranges from early adolescence to elderly populations of diverse backgrounds. This includes: Relationships, Anxiety, Employee Mediation, Risk and Threat Assessment, (of Harm to Self or Others) Grief work, Depression, Suicide Prevention, and Crisis Response. My philosophy is holistic with a mindfulness of learning style and impactful, yet compassionate techniques.
With over 20 years experience in mental health and wellness, my expertise includes a wide range of therapeutic intervention with age ranges from early adolescence to elderly populations of diverse backgrounds. This includes: Relationships, Anxiety, Employee Mediation, Risk and Threat Assessment, (of Harm to Self or Others) Grief work, Depression, Suicide Prevention, and Crisis Response. My philosophy is holistic with a mindfulness of learning style and impactful, yet compassionate techniques.
(504) 315-1146 View (504) 315-1146
Photo of Leo J Burke III - The Uptown Counseling Center of Mandeville, MP, PsyD, Psychologist
The Uptown Counseling Center of Mandeville
Psychologist, MP, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
At the Uptown Counseling Center of Mandeville, we provide expert treatment for Life Stressors, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Couples/Relational Therapy, Eating Disorders, and Addictive and Substance Abuse Disorders. Our counselors are here to help you enjoy your better life.
At the Uptown Counseling Center of Mandeville, we provide expert treatment for Life Stressors, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Couples/Relational Therapy, Eating Disorders, and Addictive and Substance Abuse Disorders. Our counselors are here to help you enjoy your better life.
(504) 290-0737 View (504) 290-0737
Photo of Almie Cooper, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Almie Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mandeville, LA 70448
I help people ready to reclaim space for self-care and wellness. Let me assist you in managing life transitions, setting boundaries, and overcoming burnout. I have extensive experience collaborating with clients to help them build the life they desire. Through the therapeutic relationship, I integrate my expertise with client's needs to promote holistic well-being. ​ My work is guided by three core tenets. Teach, Train, Transform. I value helping my clients know more and do more in order to transform their lives.
I help people ready to reclaim space for self-care and wellness. Let me assist you in managing life transitions, setting boundaries, and overcoming burnout. I have extensive experience collaborating with clients to help them build the life they desire. Through the therapeutic relationship, I integrate my expertise with client's needs to promote holistic well-being. ​ My work is guided by three core tenets. Teach, Train, Transform. I value helping my clients know more and do more in order to transform their lives.
(985) 238-3679 View (985) 238-3679
Photo of Rebecca Deano, LPC, C-IAYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Deano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
For me, yoga and psychotherapy both offer opportunities for healing. Traditional therapy works primarily through the mind. However, trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. are not only in the mind. The tools of yoga provide an avenue to address imbalances in the human system; body, physiology, mind, and emotions. Incorporating tools such as movement, breath, mindfulness, sound and meditation possibly can provide opportunities to reduce suffering, as well as enhance overall wellness. Most schools of psychotherapy only recently have begun recognizing the benefit of these tools which can work on deeper levels of the human system.
For me, yoga and psychotherapy both offer opportunities for healing. Traditional therapy works primarily through the mind. However, trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. are not only in the mind. The tools of yoga provide an avenue to address imbalances in the human system; body, physiology, mind, and emotions. Incorporating tools such as movement, breath, mindfulness, sound and meditation possibly can provide opportunities to reduce suffering, as well as enhance overall wellness. Most schools of psychotherapy only recently have begun recognizing the benefit of these tools which can work on deeper levels of the human system.
(504) 434-4848 View (504) 434-4848
Photo of Virginia Jensen Peden, MA, LMFT, CPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Virginia Jensen Peden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mandeville, LA 70448
Have you found yourself feeling stuck? Are you curious about building a deeper sense of self awareness, perhaps an ability to connect more thoughtfully in your relationships? Life can get busy and it's easy for self care and the care of our relationships to fall by the wayside. Our work together may look like processing past trauma, exploring dysfunctional patterns or navigating life transitions. Clients I work with can benefit not only from gaining understanding as to why they get stuck in unproductive patterns but also by identifying tangible ways they can practice healthier alternatives moving forward.
Have you found yourself feeling stuck? Are you curious about building a deeper sense of self awareness, perhaps an ability to connect more thoughtfully in your relationships? Life can get busy and it's easy for self care and the care of our relationships to fall by the wayside. Our work together may look like processing past trauma, exploring dysfunctional patterns or navigating life transitions. Clients I work with can benefit not only from gaining understanding as to why they get stuck in unproductive patterns but also by identifying tangible ways they can practice healthier alternatives moving forward.
(985) 238-3413 View (985) 238-3413
Photo of Stephen Maffei, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephen Maffei
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mandeville, LA 70448
One of my old football coaches used to repeatedly ask me "What happens when you get knocked down?" the answer was always "Get Back Up." My name is Stephen Maffei and I operate RISE Counseling. RISE stands for: Refocus. Identify. Strengthen. Excel. If you or someone you know is looking to improve your performance at work, athletics, in the classroom or you simply want to better yourself, RISE may be for you. I know how it feels to get knocked down and want to stay down. Life can be difficult and throw curve balls at us and I want you to know you that it is OK to be you and that you can get back up.
One of my old football coaches used to repeatedly ask me "What happens when you get knocked down?" the answer was always "Get Back Up." My name is Stephen Maffei and I operate RISE Counseling. RISE stands for: Refocus. Identify. Strengthen. Excel. If you or someone you know is looking to improve your performance at work, athletics, in the classroom or you simply want to better yourself, RISE may be for you. I know how it feels to get knocked down and want to stay down. Life can be difficult and throw curve balls at us and I want you to know you that it is OK to be you and that you can get back up.
(985) 244-2567 View (985) 244-2567
Photo of Maria R. Hebrock, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria R. Hebrock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mandeville, LA 70448
Do you find yourself feeling stuck, torn, or falling into old habits? Would you like a place to consult/ explore feedback on setting & navigating boundaries? Have you suffered from grief, loss, trauma? Does your family, partnership, or marriage need a safe space to explore healing & developing more effective communication patterns? Is your child/ teen having a hard time expressing what they need? Are you or a family member struggling with use, addiction, &/or diagnosis management? Do you or a loved one feel anxious/ depressed? Have you been affected by sleep-related issues, identity exploration, career, divorce, or life transitions?
Do you find yourself feeling stuck, torn, or falling into old habits? Would you like a place to consult/ explore feedback on setting & navigating boundaries? Have you suffered from grief, loss, trauma? Does your family, partnership, or marriage need a safe space to explore healing & developing more effective communication patterns? Is your child/ teen having a hard time expressing what they need? Are you or a family member struggling with use, addiction, &/or diagnosis management? Do you or a loved one feel anxious/ depressed? Have you been affected by sleep-related issues, identity exploration, career, divorce, or life transitions?
(985) 466-9742 View (985) 466-9742
Photo of Angie Simonton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Simonton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mandeville, LA 70448
Welcome to your therapeutic journey. Therapy is the process of undoing patterns and behaviors that no longer serve you in the present. Then replacing those maladaptive behaviors with healthy coping mechanisms. Therapy is a process of looking inwards. To gain insight, understanding, and self-compassion. It can truly be a beautiful process to be apart of.
Welcome to your therapeutic journey. Therapy is the process of undoing patterns and behaviors that no longer serve you in the present. Then replacing those maladaptive behaviors with healthy coping mechanisms. Therapy is a process of looking inwards. To gain insight, understanding, and self-compassion. It can truly be a beautiful process to be apart of.
(985) 241-7309 View (985) 241-7309

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 70448

90+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in 70448 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
79% Grief
79% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
69% Aetna

How Therapists in 70448 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 70448?

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.