Photo of Melissa S Gates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa S Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
As a therapist specializing in a variety of mental health symptoms (depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, etc.). I offer a warm and nonjudgmental approach to support you on your journey towards mental well-being. With a compassionate ear and evidence-based techniques, I strive to create a safe space to navigate life's challenges. Together, we'll explore effective coping strategies tailored to your unique needs, helping you build resilience and regain a sense of balance and fulfillment in your life. My goal is to help you discover your inner strengths and develop the tools to overcome obstacles, fostering growth and healing.
As a therapist specializing in a variety of mental health symptoms (depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, etc.). I offer a warm and nonjudgmental approach to support you on your journey towards mental well-being. With a compassionate ear and evidence-based techniques, I strive to create a safe space to navigate life's challenges. Together, we'll explore effective coping strategies tailored to your unique needs, helping you build resilience and regain a sense of balance and fulfillment in your life. My goal is to help you discover your inner strengths and develop the tools to overcome obstacles, fostering growth and healing.
(346) 644-7230 View (346) 644-7230
Photo of Brittiny Brown - Mindful Health Solutions, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittiny Brown - Mindful Health Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, and difficult life adjustments. I enjoy helping patients reach their full potential and helping them navigate through life, especially during difficult times.I believe in achieving high-quality work as a therapist, which means meeting an individual where they are. This looks like listening to someone, without judgment, to understand/analyze their wants and needs. This also means understanding where they are on their journey and trying to find ways in which I can assist them in reaching their goals.
My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, and difficult life adjustments. I enjoy helping patients reach their full potential and helping them navigate through life, especially during difficult times.I believe in achieving high-quality work as a therapist, which means meeting an individual where they are. This looks like listening to someone, without judgment, to understand/analyze their wants and needs. This also means understanding where they are on their journey and trying to find ways in which I can assist them in reaching their goals.
(832) 261-7556 View (832) 261-7556
Photo of Janelle Linares, MS, LPC, LCDC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janelle Linares
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
No matter where you are in your journey, I'm here to create a safe space where you can feel understood, supported, and heard. I embrace diverse backgrounds, helping those dealing with victimization, trauma, work stress, life changes, mental health challenges, risky behaviors, attachment issues, dissociation and children/teenagers who may be re-enacting sexual behaviors. I have received professional training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Problem Sexual Behavior Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
No matter where you are in your journey, I'm here to create a safe space where you can feel understood, supported, and heard. I embrace diverse backgrounds, helping those dealing with victimization, trauma, work stress, life changes, mental health challenges, risky behaviors, attachment issues, dissociation and children/teenagers who may be re-enacting sexual behaviors. I have received professional training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Problem Sexual Behavior Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(713) 564-7025 View (713) 564-7025
Photo of Clarissa B. Sourada, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clarissa B. Sourada
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
I want to help you be your most successful, healthy, and authentic self, and am here to support and empower you as a guide to overcoming your personal struggles. I believe everyone is the expert in their own lives, and I treat others with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. As a friendly and relatable professional, I deeply honor the client’s unique perspective and strive to develop a successful therapeutic relationship. I also push clients out of their comfort zones by challenging their existing thought processes and patterns.
I want to help you be your most successful, healthy, and authentic self, and am here to support and empower you as a guide to overcoming your personal struggles. I believe everyone is the expert in their own lives, and I treat others with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. As a friendly and relatable professional, I deeply honor the client’s unique perspective and strive to develop a successful therapeutic relationship. I also push clients out of their comfort zones by challenging their existing thought processes and patterns.
(832) 346-8898 View (832) 346-8898
Photo of Katie A. Robichaux, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie A. Robichaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
Deciding to begin therapy can be overwhelming because the idea of change can be overwhelming. While inevitable, change doesn’t have to happen all at once; it requires practice, persistence, and a supportive environment. I approach each person with humility and respect and honor each individual’s unique experiences. I aim to understand the larger systems, including the relationships, community, and society, that lead to where we are today. My approach to therapy is grounded in providing evidence-based treatment, treatment proven to be effective, and creating a collaborative space where we can work toward your desired change together.
Deciding to begin therapy can be overwhelming because the idea of change can be overwhelming. While inevitable, change doesn’t have to happen all at once; it requires practice, persistence, and a supportive environment. I approach each person with humility and respect and honor each individual’s unique experiences. I aim to understand the larger systems, including the relationships, community, and society, that lead to where we are today. My approach to therapy is grounded in providing evidence-based treatment, treatment proven to be effective, and creating a collaborative space where we can work toward your desired change together.
(832) 376-6259 View (832) 376-6259
Photo of Suniti Barua, PhD, Psychologist
Suniti Barua
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
Life can be wonderful, but often comes with many surprisingly hard twists and turns (e.g., marriage, divorce, adolescence, relocating, mid-life, crises and loss). Changes in health and chronic medical issues can be among the most difficult as they can be lasting, painful, and with serious consequences. Sometimes you need someone trustworthy, knowledgable and caring to walk you through some of the hardest times and I would be honored to do so.
Life can be wonderful, but often comes with many surprisingly hard twists and turns (e.g., marriage, divorce, adolescence, relocating, mid-life, crises and loss). Changes in health and chronic medical issues can be among the most difficult as they can be lasting, painful, and with serious consequences. Sometimes you need someone trustworthy, knowledgable and caring to walk you through some of the hardest times and I would be honored to do so.
(832) 219-9921 View (832) 219-9921
Photo of Emilie Virginia Kestner, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Emilie Virginia Kestner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
My overall goal of therapy is holding you accountable in a nonjudgmental way that supports your goals, validates your efforts, and challenges you in a way that aligns with your worldview. I like to offer feedback in an objective way and suggest skills and perspectives that you choose whether or not to implement. The methodology of my approach is conversation; two people in a room trying to figure things out while utilizing various perspectives, theories, and attempts. An emphasis of my time with you is always you; your goals, thoughts, emotions, and beliefs are valuable and I find exploring them in a therapeutic setting helpful.
My overall goal of therapy is holding you accountable in a nonjudgmental way that supports your goals, validates your efforts, and challenges you in a way that aligns with your worldview. I like to offer feedback in an objective way and suggest skills and perspectives that you choose whether or not to implement. The methodology of my approach is conversation; two people in a room trying to figure things out while utilizing various perspectives, theories, and attempts. An emphasis of my time with you is always you; your goals, thoughts, emotions, and beliefs are valuable and I find exploring them in a therapeutic setting helpful.
(281) 559-6553 View (281) 559-6553
Photo of Ashley Hinck, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Hinck
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
I'm a psychotherapist who specializes in treating adults suffering from anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, emerging adulthood, and life transitions. I pride myself on being compassionate, yet direct and solution-focused.
I'm a psychotherapist who specializes in treating adults suffering from anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, emerging adulthood, and life transitions. I pride myself on being compassionate, yet direct and solution-focused.
(832) 662-0731 View (832) 662-0731
Photo of Sonja Harrison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonja Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe that everyone has the capacity to accomplish their goals. My role is to help you uncover and understand the obstacles and trauma that are getting in the way of achieving what you desire, and then help you tap into your inner resources to succeed. With empathy and authenticity, I work alongside my clients to promote healing and discovery of their power to change. Whether you are experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss; problems with relationships, parenting, or self-esteem; or a general sense of disconnectedness – whatever it is – I recognize that therapy is self-work, and it's not easy.
I believe that everyone has the capacity to accomplish their goals. My role is to help you uncover and understand the obstacles and trauma that are getting in the way of achieving what you desire, and then help you tap into your inner resources to succeed. With empathy and authenticity, I work alongside my clients to promote healing and discovery of their power to change. Whether you are experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, grief and loss; problems with relationships, parenting, or self-esteem; or a general sense of disconnectedness – whatever it is – I recognize that therapy is self-work, and it's not easy.
(713) 257-9341 View (713) 257-9341
Photo of Rodney Beck, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rodney Beck
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
I am a professional counselor who offers an unmatched commitment to my clients leading them to resolve their concerns and make meaningful decisions. Do you ever feel weighed down by feelings of fear and anxiety? Are you frustrated in trying to find or sustain healthy relationships despite all the time and effort you are put into them? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root cause of your difficulties and build meaningful social connections. After receiving my LPC license in 1998, I worked for several years as a therapist in private practice.
I am a professional counselor who offers an unmatched commitment to my clients leading them to resolve their concerns and make meaningful decisions. Do you ever feel weighed down by feelings of fear and anxiety? Are you frustrated in trying to find or sustain healthy relationships despite all the time and effort you are put into them? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root cause of your difficulties and build meaningful social connections. After receiving my LPC license in 1998, I worked for several years as a therapist in private practice.
(346) 512-2474 View (346) 512-2474
Photo of Kalyn Jackson, LPC-A
Kalyn Jackson
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Kalyn Jackson, a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, supervised by Christie Brown, LPC-S, who is here to support you through the challenges of trauma, depression, and anxiety. I understand that reaching out for help can be a big step, and I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Welcome! I’m Kalyn Jackson, a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, supervised by Christie Brown, LPC-S, who is here to support you through the challenges of trauma, depression, and anxiety. I understand that reaching out for help can be a big step, and I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
(346) 229-0326 View (346) 229-0326
Photo of Darron Garner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darron Garner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004
Are you finding it challenging to cope with trauma-related issues that seem indiscriminate in weighing you down? Don't lose hope. You're not destined to suffer indefinitely. As your counselor, I specialize in assisting individuals, families, and groups through these complex struggles. Leveraging Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness methodologies, I aim to help you unmask your potential and transition into your best life.
Are you finding it challenging to cope with trauma-related issues that seem indiscriminate in weighing you down? Don't lose hope. You're not destined to suffer indefinitely. As your counselor, I specialize in assisting individuals, families, and groups through these complex struggles. Leveraging Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness methodologies, I aim to help you unmask your potential and transition into your best life.
(346) 229-1126 View (346) 229-1126
Photo of Sherby John Guillory Jr, LCSW, LCDC-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherby John Guillory Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
Life can be a journey filled with joy and struggle. Have you reached a point where it seems there is more struggle than joy or feel stuck in the muck that seems to only get deeper or harder to transgress? Then maybe it is time to find new paths and options by having a guide on this journey. Therapy can be a vehicle for change and development of workable tools to assist in continuing with this journey. Whether you are dealing with Depression and other mood disorders, Life changes, Anxiety, , Trauma, or a new medical or mental health diagnosis, therapy can be a useful mechanism for support, discernment, and information.
Life can be a journey filled with joy and struggle. Have you reached a point where it seems there is more struggle than joy or feel stuck in the muck that seems to only get deeper or harder to transgress? Then maybe it is time to find new paths and options by having a guide on this journey. Therapy can be a vehicle for change and development of workable tools to assist in continuing with this journey. Whether you are dealing with Depression and other mood disorders, Life changes, Anxiety, , Trauma, or a new medical or mental health diagnosis, therapy can be a useful mechanism for support, discernment, and information.
(832) 906-3586 View (832) 906-3586
Photo of Lourdes Mendicuti, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lourdes Mendicuti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
Life may be overwhelming at times, and you may be confused as to what you need. I believe clients are the experts on themselves and am here to help you connect to your inner intelligence that knows how to heal. I employ a variety of evidence-based interventions in my work, always within a client-centered approach. I believe the therapy process is inherently collaborative and will sit with you through the yuck and muck and the big “ahas" along the way.
Life may be overwhelming at times, and you may be confused as to what you need. I believe clients are the experts on themselves and am here to help you connect to your inner intelligence that knows how to heal. I employ a variety of evidence-based interventions in my work, always within a client-centered approach. I believe the therapy process is inherently collaborative and will sit with you through the yuck and muck and the big “ahas" along the way.
(832) 990-0551 View (832) 990-0551
Photo of Aleesha J. Washington, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aleesha J. Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
In therapy, I want to harness the strength in people to support their paths to healing. Therapy isn’t to “fix” broken people but to dismantle and reconfigure the learned behavior that comes from the life we have experienced. The different events and people we’ve brushed against in life make our stories unique, and I utilize a narrative therapy approach that allows my clients to explore their adaptations to life and venture into new places their stories can take them. The moment we regain power over the “pen” of our own story, our life can be written on our terms and continue forward in triumph.
In therapy, I want to harness the strength in people to support their paths to healing. Therapy isn’t to “fix” broken people but to dismantle and reconfigure the learned behavior that comes from the life we have experienced. The different events and people we’ve brushed against in life make our stories unique, and I utilize a narrative therapy approach that allows my clients to explore their adaptations to life and venture into new places their stories can take them. The moment we regain power over the “pen” of our own story, our life can be written on our terms and continue forward in triumph.
(844) 257-6365 View (844) 257-6365
Photo of Emilie Kestner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emilie Kestner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004
An ideal client for me would be a member of the LGBTQ+ community since I am a Queer-identified therapist myself as well as a client wanting to work on overcoming past traumas or challenges. I prefer working with people who are in the teenage phase of the family life cycle all the way to the launching and young adulthood phase of the cycle as well. Helping individuals understand what patterns from our families of origin we might mindlessly be enacting and creating more preferrable interactional patterns is something else I love helping clients with in therapy.
An ideal client for me would be a member of the LGBTQ+ community since I am a Queer-identified therapist myself as well as a client wanting to work on overcoming past traumas or challenges. I prefer working with people who are in the teenage phase of the family life cycle all the way to the launching and young adulthood phase of the cycle as well. Helping individuals understand what patterns from our families of origin we might mindlessly be enacting and creating more preferrable interactional patterns is something else I love helping clients with in therapy.
(832) 802-7544 View (832) 802-7544
Photo of Paige E. Achten, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige E. Achten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
I believe healing happens in relationships and pride myself in being a warm, cheerful, direct, open-minded therapist who empowers clients to reach their goals and improve their quality of life. I recognize that the first session with a new therapist can be intimidating, so I work to make clients feel comfortable and safe to share their struggles. Change does not always progress linearly and may feel unattainable at times, but I believe in meeting people where they are. Having a supportive and knowledgeable therapist can facilitate your growth and help you feel confident in handling the changes life throws your way.
I believe healing happens in relationships and pride myself in being a warm, cheerful, direct, open-minded therapist who empowers clients to reach their goals and improve their quality of life. I recognize that the first session with a new therapist can be intimidating, so I work to make clients feel comfortable and safe to share their struggles. Change does not always progress linearly and may feel unattainable at times, but I believe in meeting people where they are. Having a supportive and knowledgeable therapist can facilitate your growth and help you feel confident in handling the changes life throws your way.
(346) 791-1953 View (346) 791-1953
Photo of Wade Maggert, PhD, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wade Maggert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004
Embarking on the path of therapy is a deeply personal voyage. For individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, it is especially crucial to have a therapist who intimately understands their journey, as they grapple with unique stressors often unfamiliar to the mainstream. Navigating challenges such as discrimination, family disclosure, and the pursuit of an authentic identity in the face of societal pressures can contribute to heightened levels of depression, anxiety, substance dependency, and even thoughts of self-harm. Visit me at: www.drwade.gay/
Embarking on the path of therapy is a deeply personal voyage. For individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, it is especially crucial to have a therapist who intimately understands their journey, as they grapple with unique stressors often unfamiliar to the mainstream. Navigating challenges such as discrimination, family disclosure, and the pursuit of an authentic identity in the face of societal pressures can contribute to heightened levels of depression, anxiety, substance dependency, and even thoughts of self-harm. Visit me at: www.drwade.gay/
(281) 688-1737 View (281) 688-1737
Photo of Olajumoke M. Iyiola, LPC, LCDC, TTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olajumoke M. Iyiola
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, TTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
Whether your present life feels unmanageable, or past hurtful experiences are still causing you pain, there is hope. Reaching out for help is the first step to making positive changes in your life. As a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space in which you can share, explore, and achieve greater self-awareness. Together, we will build on the strengths you already possess to help you grow and find balance. My style of therapy is a conversational, collaborative approach aimed at helping people understand themselves better.
Whether your present life feels unmanageable, or past hurtful experiences are still causing you pain, there is hope. Reaching out for help is the first step to making positive changes in your life. As a therapist, my goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space in which you can share, explore, and achieve greater self-awareness. Together, we will build on the strengths you already possess to help you grow and find balance. My style of therapy is a conversational, collaborative approach aimed at helping people understand themselves better.
(713) 597-2223 View (713) 597-2223
Photo of Katherine Anderson, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004  (Online Only)
As a Black therapist I am dedicated to connecting black and brown communities to healing spaces. I am passionate about helping all individuals find ways to appreciate and care for themselves.
As a Black therapist I am dedicated to connecting black and brown communities to healing spaces. I am passionate about helping all individuals find ways to appreciate and care for themselves.
(832) 925-3864 View (832) 925-3864

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 77004

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 77004 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
76% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth
78% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 77004 see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 77004?

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.