Therapists in Missoula, MT
![Photo of Jean Starr - Starr Counseling and Addiction Services, LAC, NCAC-I, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfd076df-d1d7-4989-ac59-eeeb6c05e504/2/320x400.jpeg)
Starr Counseling and Addiction Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC, NCAC-I
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59801
If you are at a turning point in your life and need a stepping stone, I am here to help you. I can help you walk through the process of completing requirements for a DUI-A.C.T. Your time and resources are valuable and I will make every effort to treat both with respect. You will always be evaluated ethically using only the highest standards set by the American Society of Addiction Medicine Criteria to give you the best level of care you need.
If you are at a turning point in your life and need a stepping stone, I am here to help you. I can help you walk through the process of completing requirements for a DUI-A.C.T. Your time and resources are valuable and I will make every effort to treat both with respect. You will always be evaluated ethically using only the highest standards set by the American Society of Addiction Medicine Criteria to give you the best level of care you need.
![Photo of Erika Bidlake, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50033cd7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Timing is everything! If you are reading this, chances are that now is the time. Being real, raw, and vulnerable isn't easy but it's absolutely worth it. I work to create an environment that allows for careful examination and reflection while being mindful of where each person is and where they would like to be. It is possible to live a life of acceptance and gratitude which allows you to grow and move through life's greatest challenges. I have worked in the social work field for over 20 years and I love it! I've worked with people from very diverse walks of life and in all age groups. No kidding, birth - 101 years old!
Timing is everything! If you are reading this, chances are that now is the time. Being real, raw, and vulnerable isn't easy but it's absolutely worth it. I work to create an environment that allows for careful examination and reflection while being mindful of where each person is and where they would like to be. It is possible to live a life of acceptance and gratitude which allows you to grow and move through life's greatest challenges. I have worked in the social work field for over 20 years and I love it! I've worked with people from very diverse walks of life and in all age groups. No kidding, birth - 101 years old!
![Photo of Chris Southall, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5fb7f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in each person's inherent strength and resiliency. The fact that you are reading this indicates that you have the courage to take one of the most important steps in your healing and growth...recongnizing your life is out of balance and choosing to seek help. I will work with you to identify and change the old self-defeating behaviors and beliefs that keep you stuck in unhealthy and unfulfilling patterns of life.
I believe in each person's inherent strength and resiliency. The fact that you are reading this indicates that you have the courage to take one of the most important steps in your healing and growth...recongnizing your life is out of balance and choosing to seek help. I will work with you to identify and change the old self-defeating behaviors and beliefs that keep you stuck in unhealthy and unfulfilling patterns of life.
![Photo of Lauren McCrillis, MA, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edc69b89-354c-4765-8163-17ecd2acd7a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren McCrillis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
Navigating life's various challenges can feel deeply overwhelming at times, and the idea of reaching out for help can be daunting. Therapy can provide a safe, helpful space for you to learn more about yourself and how you relate to the world. I believe that we are all capable of a deeper understanding of self, which can help us gain more insight into our struggles and how we coexist with them. I approach each session with the strengths-based understanding that every client is the expert on themselves and their own life.
Navigating life's various challenges can feel deeply overwhelming at times, and the idea of reaching out for help can be daunting. Therapy can provide a safe, helpful space for you to learn more about yourself and how you relate to the world. I believe that we are all capable of a deeper understanding of self, which can help us gain more insight into our struggles and how we coexist with them. I approach each session with the strengths-based understanding that every client is the expert on themselves and their own life.
![Photo of Jesse King, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b76240e1-20a5-40c7-8721-907986239ed3/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical focus is helping people adjust to life transitions, recover from trauma, overcome emotional distress, and learn new behaviors to cope. I am a Veteran, and have provided counseling services to military members and their families for 20 years. My education is based on an understanding of neuroscience and the human systems it supports such as language, attachment, cognition, and behavior. I am considerate of culture, identity, and intersectionality. I utilize Systemic, Cognitive, Behavioral, Attachment, Family Systems, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Solution-Focused interventions to reach client goals.
My clinical focus is helping people adjust to life transitions, recover from trauma, overcome emotional distress, and learn new behaviors to cope. I am a Veteran, and have provided counseling services to military members and their families for 20 years. My education is based on an understanding of neuroscience and the human systems it supports such as language, attachment, cognition, and behavior. I am considerate of culture, identity, and intersectionality. I utilize Systemic, Cognitive, Behavioral, Attachment, Family Systems, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Solution-Focused interventions to reach client goals.
![Photo of Sophia Jensen, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da796f3-a036-45f3-a4ae-8203d3b4462e/3/320x400.jpeg)
My goal as a counselor is for you to feel comfortable to work through life’s difficulties, no matter how big or small, in a safe environment. Through this process, you can gain new insight and start to change the behavioral patterns that no longer serve you. Though therapy can be difficult, I also believe it has the potential to be wildly rewarding, healing and even fun.
My goal as a counselor is for you to feel comfortable to work through life’s difficulties, no matter how big or small, in a safe environment. Through this process, you can gain new insight and start to change the behavioral patterns that no longer serve you. Though therapy can be difficult, I also believe it has the potential to be wildly rewarding, healing and even fun.
![Photo of Suzanne M Richards, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c16a6fa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne M Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
Not accepting new clients
**Please note: I am not currently accepting new clients. I have 25 years experience providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families who are dealing with issues related to personal/relational growth, trauma, addiction and recovery, depression, anxiety, procrastination and motivation.
I provide psychotherapy which is based on principles of mindfulness. I am a graduate of both the Hakomi and Sensorimotor Institutes which trains clinicians in the area of mindfulness based body centered psychotherapy.
**Please note: I am not currently accepting new clients. I have 25 years experience providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families who are dealing with issues related to personal/relational growth, trauma, addiction and recovery, depression, anxiety, procrastination and motivation.
I provide psychotherapy which is based on principles of mindfulness. I am a graduate of both the Hakomi and Sensorimotor Institutes which trains clinicians in the area of mindfulness based body centered psychotherapy.
![Photo of Callie Morris, MSW, SWLC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a56b0832-789d-4760-9b34-baa4a92c21bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Callie Morris
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
Not accepting new clients
Hello! Thanks for taking a minute to browse my page. The best way to get to know about me is by visiting my website, calliemorris.com. I believe we are all on a continual journey to search for our authentic self and in constant reflection for how that self can show up in our daily lives.
Hello! Thanks for taking a minute to browse my page. The best way to get to know about me is by visiting my website, calliemorris.com. I believe we are all on a continual journey to search for our authentic self and in constant reflection for how that self can show up in our daily lives.
![Photo of Zeke Campfield, SWLC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6fbf9ce-e14c-481c-b5c1-0f5da659e74a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zeke’s work is rooted in helping people learn healthier ways to navigate life’s ups and downs, reconstruct a healthier personal narrative and build stronger connection with themselves and the world around them. He is particularly experienced working with men who struggle with issues related to sex and gender – including the impacts of addictive or compulsive behaviors and the impacts of those on self and relationships.
Zeke’s work is rooted in helping people learn healthier ways to navigate life’s ups and downs, reconstruct a healthier personal narrative and build stronger connection with themselves and the world around them. He is particularly experienced working with men who struggle with issues related to sex and gender – including the impacts of addictive or compulsive behaviors and the impacts of those on self and relationships.
![Photo of Warren A Michelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f345973-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy is not about a healer and a patient. Therapy is a human-to-human encounter where we build safety, radical acceptance, courageous self-assessment, and mutual humility. Together we build the strength, skills, courage and insight needed to reckon with all the turbulence that brought you to this moment, this meeting. I have certain skills, tools-for-exploration-and-healing, and ongoing specialized training. We hold space together to re-experience/speak/honor our suffering, and then use what we discover to grow your capacity for compassion, release, equanimity and joyful living.
Psychotherapy is not about a healer and a patient. Therapy is a human-to-human encounter where we build safety, radical acceptance, courageous self-assessment, and mutual humility. Together we build the strength, skills, courage and insight needed to reckon with all the turbulence that brought you to this moment, this meeting. I have certain skills, tools-for-exploration-and-healing, and ongoing specialized training. We hold space together to re-experience/speak/honor our suffering, and then use what we discover to grow your capacity for compassion, release, equanimity and joyful living.
![Photo of James Thompson, MA, PCLC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a206c153-7968-48cf-8438-4c83326b07b5/1/320x400.png)
I believe that seeking support for change and healing can be an intimidating first step. Making it this far speaks to the commitment you have already made to your personal betterment and well-being. I am excited to witness this momentum and am ultimately honored to support you along the way towards whatever personal growth, awareness and self-discovery you seek. I strive to foster a safe environment for all identities to bring all their true selves to counseling. My therapeutic approach is strongly rooted in Person Centered Therapy, informed by CBT and Inspired by Narrative and Mindfulness modalities.
I believe that seeking support for change and healing can be an intimidating first step. Making it this far speaks to the commitment you have already made to your personal betterment and well-being. I am excited to witness this momentum and am ultimately honored to support you along the way towards whatever personal growth, awareness and self-discovery you seek. I strive to foster a safe environment for all identities to bring all their true selves to counseling. My therapeutic approach is strongly rooted in Person Centered Therapy, informed by CBT and Inspired by Narrative and Mindfulness modalities.
15 Second Videos
Jesse King
Linds Sanders
Kristen Dabbs
Zak Reimer
Christopher Beard
Devra Ince
Jonathan Sky Cova
Anna Louise Peterson
Emily Pray
Krista Hellem
Patrick Marsolek
Debby Florence
Companionway Psychotherapy - Accepting new clients
Kate Cluff
Matthew Austin Britton
Raenelle Richardson
Jackie Williams Counseling For Illness And Loss
Caroline Kinsley
Jennifer Franklin
Aaron Conner
Katherine Thompson Graves
Amanda Kilty
Sarah Webb
Aletheia Marriage Counseling
Sunny Mavor Online Counseling
Advanced Counseling of Bozeman
Dr. Tristan Sophia
Elizabeth O'Brien
Sabrina Clay Hanan
Dr. Jen Bradtke | Anxiety and Burnout Therapist
Amy Hutton
![Photo of David Rigo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ec5dcd0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At one time or another most people feel stuck in unproductive or even damaging ways of thinking, feeling, perceiving and acting/ interacting. Sometimes the causes of the difficulty are hard to see or define. Other times we may understand why we struggle but lack the skills or support needed to make and sustain change.
At one time or another most people feel stuck in unproductive or even damaging ways of thinking, feeling, perceiving and acting/ interacting. Sometimes the causes of the difficulty are hard to see or define. Other times we may understand why we struggle but lack the skills or support needed to make and sustain change.
![Photo of Emilie Burke, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89c2f280-710f-44a9-84fa-9afbb7c7b59f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emilie Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59803
Not accepting new clients
Since 2010, my intention in working with my clients has been to hold a safe and confidential space that supports self-exploration and awareness, connection, curiosity, and personal growth. I understand that seeking out and accepting help can be uncomfortable and that it takes bravery to be vulnerable, and vice versa. I focus on building secure and trusting therapeutic alliances with the people I get to work with to create a personalized approach to their unique needs and goals. I believe that we are each the experts in our own lives and that the catalyst of change and healing comes from our relationship with ourselves and others.
Since 2010, my intention in working with my clients has been to hold a safe and confidential space that supports self-exploration and awareness, connection, curiosity, and personal growth. I understand that seeking out and accepting help can be uncomfortable and that it takes bravery to be vulnerable, and vice versa. I focus on building secure and trusting therapeutic alliances with the people I get to work with to create a personalized approach to their unique needs and goals. I believe that we are each the experts in our own lives and that the catalyst of change and healing comes from our relationship with ourselves and others.
![Photo of Kelsey McFarland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39a545df-8aa7-498b-960c-27091da7af1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey McFarland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
Waitlist for new clients
My primary focus is to help you achieve the goals you set, and help you align with and live by your values. My goal is to help individuals and families process barriers, understand and organize emotional chaos, and develop communication, relational, and coping skills to live a functional, whole, and healthy life. I emphasize the importance of good communication, self-examination, and awareness. This allows for each individual to safely explore their inner world and gain insight into themselves and the world they are connecting with.
My primary focus is to help you achieve the goals you set, and help you align with and live by your values. My goal is to help individuals and families process barriers, understand and organize emotional chaos, and develop communication, relational, and coping skills to live a functional, whole, and healthy life. I emphasize the importance of good communication, self-examination, and awareness. This allows for each individual to safely explore their inner world and gain insight into themselves and the world they are connecting with.
![Photo of Aimee Heavyrunner, NCC, PCLC, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f127f786-183c-408d-8788-b92e52e376ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aimee Heavyrunner
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, PCLC, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59808
Waitlist for new clients
I am so glad you are here looking for a safe space to heal and process life. I value my work as a Clinical Mental Health and Addictions Counselor. I support adults and elders navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma recovery. My therapy approach is person-centered and narrative based.
I am so glad you are here looking for a safe space to heal and process life. I value my work as a Clinical Mental Health and Addictions Counselor. I support adults and elders navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma recovery. My therapy approach is person-centered and narrative based.
![Photo of Linds Sanders, MA, PCLC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00a4e662-6dd6-4657-aaf9-e8a039ffcbd1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beginning counseling can feel daunting, but it’s a courageous step toward growth and exploring ways to navigate life’s challenges. My goal is to offer a compassionate space where you can acknowledge difficulties, gain clarity, and voice thoughts you might not have shared before. I’m passionate about working with grief, depression, trauma, and life transitions, and I’m curious about how these experiences show up in your life. I aim to normalize our diverse human experiences while highlighting their universal aspects. Together, we'll recognize and build on your existing inner strengths and introduce new skills that resonate with you.
Beginning counseling can feel daunting, but it’s a courageous step toward growth and exploring ways to navigate life’s challenges. My goal is to offer a compassionate space where you can acknowledge difficulties, gain clarity, and voice thoughts you might not have shared before. I’m passionate about working with grief, depression, trauma, and life transitions, and I’m curious about how these experiences show up in your life. I aim to normalize our diverse human experiences while highlighting their universal aspects. Together, we'll recognize and build on your existing inner strengths and introduce new skills that resonate with you.
![Photo of Melanie Ames, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffd07ef6-64de-49b7-8f39-3d23e93ae621/1/320x400.jpeg)
I deeply believe you deserve to live your most fulfilling life. My goal is to help you recalibrate your inner compass and tap into your own strengths. I want you to move forward with a resilience that persists long after our work with one another is complete.
Our time together will create space for you to identify goals and then we will create a roadmap to get you where you want to be.
I deeply believe you deserve to live your most fulfilling life. My goal is to help you recalibrate your inner compass and tap into your own strengths. I want you to move forward with a resilience that persists long after our work with one another is complete.
Our time together will create space for you to identify goals and then we will create a roadmap to get you where you want to be.
![Photo of Doug Cook, SWLC, MSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a90e5f23-15cc-414c-839e-4e53f4dc1951/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you seek relatively brief help making changes, or lengthier, more comprehensive assistance, I am here to listen and work together. I have assisted adolescents and adults living with symptoms associated with a range of behavioral health concerns, including: depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma and PTSD, neurodiversity, conduct and personality disorders, OCD, dissociative disorders, neurocognitive disorders, bipolar, schizophrenic disorders, and co-occurring disorders. I strongly believe in respecting individual characteristics while honoring cultural, gender, and other identities.
Whether you seek relatively brief help making changes, or lengthier, more comprehensive assistance, I am here to listen and work together. I have assisted adolescents and adults living with symptoms associated with a range of behavioral health concerns, including: depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma and PTSD, neurodiversity, conduct and personality disorders, OCD, dissociative disorders, neurocognitive disorders, bipolar, schizophrenic disorders, and co-occurring disorders. I strongly believe in respecting individual characteristics while honoring cultural, gender, and other identities.
![Photo of Catie Forsting, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c64a8ef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm an attachment therapist who is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families thrive through bettering their relationships.
I'm an attachment therapist who is passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families thrive through bettering their relationships.
![Photo of Laura Sarsony, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5690d767-9183-4de7-a836-6ab5ab77be8b/1/320x400.png)
Life, I believe, is a continuous journey of growth, and I am dedicated to fostering a courageous space for you to venture beyond the familiar. Together, we will create a secure, non-judgmental, and culturally attuned environment that not only respects your unique narrative but also empowers you to script a new chapter, one where your goals are not just envisioned but actively pursued and achieved. My therapeutic practice is anchored in a suite of evidence-based modalities, each chosen for its profound capacity to facilitate healing and growth.
Life, I believe, is a continuous journey of growth, and I am dedicated to fostering a courageous space for you to venture beyond the familiar. Together, we will create a secure, non-judgmental, and culturally attuned environment that not only respects your unique narrative but also empowers you to script a new chapter, one where your goals are not just envisioned but actively pursued and achieved. My therapeutic practice is anchored in a suite of evidence-based modalities, each chosen for its profound capacity to facilitate healing and growth.
See more therapy options for Missoula
Nearby Searches for Missoula
See More TherapistsHow does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Missoula, MT
400+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in Missoula, MT who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
81% | Relationship Issues |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Self Esteem |
70% | Coping Skills |
69% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
83% | Allegiance |
82% | PacificSource |
How Therapists in Missoula, MT see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Missoula?
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
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.
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.
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.