Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Sarah Marsh, MA, LCMHC-A
Sarah Marsh
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Personally, I have seen the power that comes from a listening ear and a nonjudgemental approach to therapy. I have seen people transform when given the space to be authentically themselves. Sometimes, we struggle to find someone who will provide a safe and inviting space for us to share our story and our struggles. I counsel all people, but I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, school issues, and family issues. I also work with couples who are navigating their relationship and trying to improve their communication and the quality of their partnership.
Personally, I have seen the power that comes from a listening ear and a nonjudgemental approach to therapy. I have seen people transform when given the space to be authentically themselves. Sometimes, we struggle to find someone who will provide a safe and inviting space for us to share our story and our struggles. I counsel all people, but I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, school issues, and family issues. I also work with couples who are navigating their relationship and trying to improve their communication and the quality of their partnership.
(336) 530-5990 View (336) 530-5990
Photo of Alexa Henson, MS, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Alexa Henson
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
As a therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs, and affirm LGBTQIA+. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
As a therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs, and affirm LGBTQIA+. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
(336) 360-6942 View (336) 360-6942
Photo of Tonjia Kiara Armstrong, LCMHC, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tonjia Kiara Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Not accepting new clients
Today is your day to make the decision to be a better you! Are you just existing and not living? Do you feel like something is missing? Do you feel like you are free falling? Is there an elephant in the room that you have not addressed? Are you losing a battle with your mind everyday? Do you feel stuck? Allow me to help guide you through these things. Just know that you are not alone and even the toughest warriors need strategy to fight through the war. Together, we can face these battles and find victory in blooming into the person you are meant to be.
Today is your day to make the decision to be a better you! Are you just existing and not living? Do you feel like something is missing? Do you feel like you are free falling? Is there an elephant in the room that you have not addressed? Are you losing a battle with your mind everyday? Do you feel stuck? Allow me to help guide you through these things. Just know that you are not alone and even the toughest warriors need strategy to fight through the war. Together, we can face these battles and find victory in blooming into the person you are meant to be.
(336) 585-8653 View (336) 585-8653
Photo of Marlena Del Hierro, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marlena Del Hierro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
I focus on forward movement in your life and help to improve your overall wellbeing, not just reduce distressing symptoms. Whether you’re struggling with a transition in life, or anxiety, depression, low mood, fear, and past or current trauma, my approach involves restructuring your brain to feel more positive, optimistic, wise, connected, and efficient.
I focus on forward movement in your life and help to improve your overall wellbeing, not just reduce distressing symptoms. Whether you’re struggling with a transition in life, or anxiety, depression, low mood, fear, and past or current trauma, my approach involves restructuring your brain to feel more positive, optimistic, wise, connected, and efficient.
(336) 800-2786 x700 View (336) 800-2786 x700
Photo of Sally Thornton - Sally Thornton, MA, LPA, RYT 500, Psychological Associate
Sally Thornton
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, RYT 500
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Welcome to Magnolia Center for Counseling and Eating Recovery located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. We are committed to walking with you on your journey toward your new life. We provide counseling services to assist you in addressing conditions that contribute to the onset, maintenance, and severity of eating disorders and other psychological concerns. Eating disorders addressed through our services include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. We also provide counseling for other mental health and behavioral concerns including emotional/stress eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, body image disturbance, self-esteem, adolescent concerns, and family discord.
Welcome to Magnolia Center for Counseling and Eating Recovery located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. We are committed to walking with you on your journey toward your new life. We provide counseling services to assist you in addressing conditions that contribute to the onset, maintenance, and severity of eating disorders and other psychological concerns. Eating disorders addressed through our services include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. We also provide counseling for other mental health and behavioral concerns including emotional/stress eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, body image disturbance, self-esteem, adolescent concerns, and family discord.
(336) 814-2601 View (336) 814-2601
Photo of Angela Rae Wiley - Angela Wiley with Greensboro Dance & Drama Therapy, LCMHCS, MAC, NCC, RDTBCT, BC-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Wiley with Greensboro Dance & Drama Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, MAC, NCC, RDTBCT, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I specialize in using dance movement therapy and drama therapy with individuals struggling with abuse, developmental/physical limitations, trauma and substance abuse. I offer individual, family and group therapy. I offer a free telephone consultation. Each session has the opportunity to "move" instead of "sit" giving a chance to express feelings and emotions though your body. Achieving healing with mind and body. I can help those that have not had success with traditional therapies. I will offer sessions in person and on Zoom.
I specialize in using dance movement therapy and drama therapy with individuals struggling with abuse, developmental/physical limitations, trauma and substance abuse. I offer individual, family and group therapy. I offer a free telephone consultation. Each session has the opportunity to "move" instead of "sit" giving a chance to express feelings and emotions though your body. Achieving healing with mind and body. I can help those that have not had success with traditional therapies. I will offer sessions in person and on Zoom.
(336) 664-8514 View (336) 664-8514
Photo of Hollie Bowers, MS, LCMHCA, LCASA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Hollie Bowers
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, LCASA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm here to assist you in navigating through challenges and moving towards a more authentic and fulfilling life. I create a non-judgmental and safe space for clients to explore, learn, and grow on their journey toward self-discovery and healing. My counseling approach is eclectic, person-centered, and trauma-informed, drawing from various evidence-based modalities depending on each client’s unique needs. These include but are not limited to, Rogerian person-centered therapy, EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, CBT, DBT, MI, and NARM. I'm a trained EMDR therapist.
I'm here to assist you in navigating through challenges and moving towards a more authentic and fulfilling life. I create a non-judgmental and safe space for clients to explore, learn, and grow on their journey toward self-discovery and healing. My counseling approach is eclectic, person-centered, and trauma-informed, drawing from various evidence-based modalities depending on each client’s unique needs. These include but are not limited to, Rogerian person-centered therapy, EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, CBT, DBT, MI, and NARM. I'm a trained EMDR therapist.
(336) 920-7319 View (336) 920-7319
Photo of Lisha Mejan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisha Mejan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
We talk a lot about what's on our minds, the work our brains are doing, and the moving body as separate parts. But, they are all one unit working together, for better of for worse. Trauma is a good example of these parts working together as one. Our nervous system connects the body/brain/mind and can get stuck working too hard trying to keep us safe. Brainspotting via the eyes, connects with our sub-cortical brains to release trauma held in our whole selves. It gets to the things talking can't get to and reduces unwanted trauma responses. Curious? Come give it a try.
We talk a lot about what's on our minds, the work our brains are doing, and the moving body as separate parts. But, they are all one unit working together, for better of for worse. Trauma is a good example of these parts working together as one. Our nervous system connects the body/brain/mind and can get stuck working too hard trying to keep us safe. Brainspotting via the eyes, connects with our sub-cortical brains to release trauma held in our whole selves. It gets to the things talking can't get to and reduces unwanted trauma responses. Curious? Come give it a try.
(336) 750-6240 View (336) 750-6240
Photo of Debbie Furr-Peters, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Furr-Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101  (Online Only)
We all have times when we struggle with feelings of being sad, anxious or depressed, grieving over the loss of a loved one, going through a transition in life, having low self-esteem, experiencing relationship problems, or just feeling low or "off." These and other forms of conflict can be overwhelming.
We all have times when we struggle with feelings of being sad, anxious or depressed, grieving over the loss of a loved one, going through a transition in life, having low self-esteem, experiencing relationship problems, or just feeling low or "off." These and other forms of conflict can be overwhelming.
(336) 770-2172 View (336) 770-2172
Photo of E. Brooke Barnard, MS, LPC, Counselor
E. Brooke Barnard
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Not accepting new clients
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
I have an avid interest in helping children, adults, and families dealing with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental and/or physical challenges, and Academically Gifted and Talented. I also specialize in supporting clients and families coping with chronic and/or serious illnesses. Siblings, who are often overlooked in these families, are of special concern to me. Depression, anxiety and grief and loss issues due to death, divorce and other life changes hold a special interest for me as well.
(336) 790-4638 View (336) 790-4638
Photo of Rachelle Evans Burrell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachelle Evans Burrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
I provide compassionate, confidential, trauma informed care to teens and adults. Every stage of life comes with unique challenges and victories, and therapy helps people to navigate through these transitions. Anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, grief and loss are all treatable conditions that can be reduced or eliminated. You need an opportunity to discuss current concerns with a neutral party and this can be obtained through a therapeutic alliance with a therapist. I strive to really listen to what's important to you so that we can jointly develop a plan just for you.
I provide compassionate, confidential, trauma informed care to teens and adults. Every stage of life comes with unique challenges and victories, and therapy helps people to navigate through these transitions. Anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, grief and loss are all treatable conditions that can be reduced or eliminated. You need an opportunity to discuss current concerns with a neutral party and this can be obtained through a therapeutic alliance with a therapist. I strive to really listen to what's important to you so that we can jointly develop a plan just for you.
(336) 962-2598 View (336) 962-2598
Photo of Ashley Rabon, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Ashley Rabon
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Hi! I am glad you are here. It can be intimidating to trust someone with the pain, heartache, and uncertainty in your life. My hope is for counseling to be a place that feels safe enough for you to grow in the ability to trust and feel safe in your body. I want you to find a place where you can be seen, heard, and have your story held with dignity and honor. Whether that is with me or another therapist, I hope you can find someone to walk alongside you as you rest, grow in strength, and face the challenges in your life.
Hi! I am glad you are here. It can be intimidating to trust someone with the pain, heartache, and uncertainty in your life. My hope is for counseling to be a place that feels safe enough for you to grow in the ability to trust and feel safe in your body. I want you to find a place where you can be seen, heard, and have your story held with dignity and honor. Whether that is with me or another therapist, I hope you can find someone to walk alongside you as you rest, grow in strength, and face the challenges in your life.
(336) 866-0876 View (336) 866-0876
Photo of Skylar Elise McGhee, LCMHCA, Counselor
Skylar Elise McGhee
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
My hope as a psychotherapist is to build a relationship based on trust, respect, and hopefulness with my clients. I view psychotherapy not only as a way to address symptoms, but as a gateway to more joy, wholeness, and pleasure in our lives.
My hope as a psychotherapist is to build a relationship based on trust, respect, and hopefulness with my clients. I view psychotherapy not only as a way to address symptoms, but as a gateway to more joy, wholeness, and pleasure in our lives.
(919) 587-8372 View (919) 587-8372
Photo of Kelsey Catherwood, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, LRT, CTRS, Counselor
Kelsey Catherwood
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, LRT, CTRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
Are you weighed down by anxiety, burdened by the lingering impact of past experiences, and exhausted from the ceaseless pressure to please others? You're so accustomed to being everything for everyone that you've lost sight of who you are, and it feels unsettling even to read a paragraph focused on you. If you’re ready to leave the years of living for everyone except yourself behind, to break free from the confines of trauma and self-doubt, and finally feel excited for your life, you’ve found the right place.
Are you weighed down by anxiety, burdened by the lingering impact of past experiences, and exhausted from the ceaseless pressure to please others? You're so accustomed to being everything for everyone that you've lost sight of who you are, and it feels unsettling even to read a paragraph focused on you. If you’re ready to leave the years of living for everyone except yourself behind, to break free from the confines of trauma and self-doubt, and finally feel excited for your life, you’ve found the right place.
(336) 221-3049 View (336) 221-3049
Photo of Jackeline Vazquez - The Counseling Center, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, Counselor
The Counseling Center
Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
At the Counseling Center, we specialize in counseling families, couples with marital concerns, individuals dealing with trauma, addiction, and mood and personality disorders. We are Christian counselors with clinical backgrounds. TCC counselors are licensed by the state of North Carolina.
At the Counseling Center, we specialize in counseling families, couples with marital concerns, individuals dealing with trauma, addiction, and mood and personality disorders. We are Christian counselors with clinical backgrounds. TCC counselors are licensed by the state of North Carolina.
(336) 891-3238 View (336) 891-3238
Photo of New Life Counseling Center Pllc - New Life Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Life Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Accepting new clients! New Life Counseling Center is founded on the shared principles that every client deserves a therapist who cares about them and their experience: Someone who has the skills and insight to make a real difference. We believe that people aren’t looking for a paid friend, but a knowledgeable professional to connect with you and help you heal. Being able to sit with a caring person who has the skills, experience and objectivity to help guide you through the confusion and pain that can sometimes seem so overwhelming, can be life changing The warmth of caring, unconditional acceptance has healing power in your life!
Accepting new clients! New Life Counseling Center is founded on the shared principles that every client deserves a therapist who cares about them and their experience: Someone who has the skills and insight to make a real difference. We believe that people aren’t looking for a paid friend, but a knowledgeable professional to connect with you and help you heal. Being able to sit with a caring person who has the skills, experience and objectivity to help guide you through the confusion and pain that can sometimes seem so overwhelming, can be life changing The warmth of caring, unconditional acceptance has healing power in your life!
(336) 628-8522 View (336) 628-8522
Photo of Alexandria Brintnall - Dogwood Counseling Services, LCMHC, Counselor
Dogwood Counseling Services
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy the opportunity to offer clients a trusting and safe environment to process thoughts, recent life events and changes as well as more specific interpersonal challenges and concerns. Additionally, I can provide a non-judgmental and compassionate approach for clients that are seeking a warm, yet goal-directed, therapeutic experience. I work with partners wanting support around communication, premarital work, intimacy, and staying connected through difficult emotional seasons and transitions.
I enjoy the opportunity to offer clients a trusting and safe environment to process thoughts, recent life events and changes as well as more specific interpersonal challenges and concerns. Additionally, I can provide a non-judgmental and compassionate approach for clients that are seeking a warm, yet goal-directed, therapeutic experience. I work with partners wanting support around communication, premarital work, intimacy, and staying connected through difficult emotional seasons and transitions.
(336) 920-8024 View (336) 920-8024
Photo of Clarissa Adams, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clarissa Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Navigating a current transition in your life, whether it's navigating the shift from high school to college, embarking on a new career path, figuring out who you are, or adjusting to life in a new city can be both exciting and terrifying. Going through transitions can lead to feelings of uncertainty and confusion. I am here to support alongside of you as you navigate changes and develop skills that are right for you. I am committed to supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, and with issues surrounding self-esteem and self-worth.
Navigating a current transition in your life, whether it's navigating the shift from high school to college, embarking on a new career path, figuring out who you are, or adjusting to life in a new city can be both exciting and terrifying. Going through transitions can lead to feelings of uncertainty and confusion. I am here to support alongside of you as you navigate changes and develop skills that are right for you. I am committed to supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, and with issues surrounding self-esteem and self-worth.
(336) 742-3973 View (336) 742-3973
Photo of Nicole Powell, MEd, LCMHCA, Counselor
Nicole Powell
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
(336) 594-2301 View (336) 594-2301
Photo of Starkesha Daye, LCMHC
Starkesha Daye
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
My ideal client seeks self-exploration & understanding, facing issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. They need a supportive space for personal growth, aiming to gain insight, develop coping strategies, improve communication, & foster healthy relationships. They aspire to enhance mental well-being, achieve a better life quality, & unlock their full potential.
(336) 489-4342 View (336) 489-4342
1
...

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

500+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Winston Salem, NC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
78% Self Esteem
74% Relationship Issues
74% Coping Skills
73% Stress
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
49% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Winston Salem, NC see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Winston Salem?

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.