Therapists in Washington, DC

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Lisa M Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Are life's challenges getting the best of you? Feeling stressed, anxious, angry or tired? It may be time to make your emotional wellness a priority. I welcome the opportunity to assist you.
Are life's challenges getting the best of you? Feeling stressed, anxious, angry or tired? It may be time to make your emotional wellness a priority. I welcome the opportunity to assist you.
(202) 891-4765 View (202) 891-4765
Photo of Saqueita Russell - AllCare Conversations Counseling Center, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
AllCare Conversations Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Saqueita Russell, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor that is trained to implement various therapeutic approaches. She is an eclectic Therapist that believes in a person-centered approach by tailoring treatment to the specific needs of her clients. She enjoys incorporating a Cognitive Behavioral therapeutic approach and evidenced based treatment models to support adults. She offers a safe, collaborative, and judge-free zone to support the needs and goals of the clients that she supports.
Saqueita Russell, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor that is trained to implement various therapeutic approaches. She is an eclectic Therapist that believes in a person-centered approach by tailoring treatment to the specific needs of her clients. She enjoys incorporating a Cognitive Behavioral therapeutic approach and evidenced based treatment models to support adults. She offers a safe, collaborative, and judge-free zone to support the needs and goals of the clients that she supports.
(202) 953-6349 View (202) 953-6349
Photo of Stephen Holland, PsyD, Psychologist
Stephen Holland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
(202) 759-2884 View (202) 759-2884
Photo of Alexander Gorodetsky, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexander Gorodetsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
As children, we are learning from interactions with our parents who we are and how to fit into the world around us. After we leave home, we become our own parents as we continue to learn about ourselves and how to find our own place in life. And when we have families of our own, we are now parents both for our children and for ourselves, as we continue to understand more about who we are. I provide a warm, empathic and accepting environment where you can explore your current life challenges, as well as address past issues that impact your everyday life.
As children, we are learning from interactions with our parents who we are and how to fit into the world around us. After we leave home, we become our own parents as we continue to learn about ourselves and how to find our own place in life. And when we have families of our own, we are now parents both for our children and for ourselves, as we continue to understand more about who we are. I provide a warm, empathic and accepting environment where you can explore your current life challenges, as well as address past issues that impact your everyday life.
(301) 355-2172 View (301) 355-2172
Photo of James U. DeFrancis, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James U. DeFrancis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. In today’s stressful and uncertain world, each of us can experience challenges with anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and low self-esteem. I work to provide my clients with a safe, affirming, non-judgmental space to work through these challenges on their journeys to wellness and fulfillment. I support my clients as they find healing from trauma, develop meaningful relationships, achieve their life goals, and come to celebrate their truest, deepest selves.
Accepting new clients. In today’s stressful and uncertain world, each of us can experience challenges with anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and low self-esteem. I work to provide my clients with a safe, affirming, non-judgmental space to work through these challenges on their journeys to wellness and fulfillment. I support my clients as they find healing from trauma, develop meaningful relationships, achieve their life goals, and come to celebrate their truest, deepest selves.
(202) 873-9292 View (202) 873-9292
Photo of Michaela Fitzgerald, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michaela Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinician in Washington, DC. I am excited about working with you and helping resolve your most personal issues. These include: codependency, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, interpersonal issues, grief, and trauma. I have had substantial experience in all of these areas.
I am a licensed clinician in Washington, DC. I am excited about working with you and helping resolve your most personal issues. These include: codependency, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, interpersonal issues, grief, and trauma. I have had substantial experience in all of these areas.
(844) 751-1471 View (844) 751-1471
Photo of Elsa Mendez, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elsa Mendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Elsa Mendez, a bilingual Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in DC. I hold a bachelor's degree in psychology from Towson University and a master's in Social Work from Catholic University. My professional journey has led me to collaborate with diverse populations across the DC and Maryland regions. These experiences have enriched my perspective and equipped me with valuable insights into the diverse challenges individuals face from all walks of life. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate, and culturally sensitive space where your journey towards healing and growth can flourish.
Hello, I'm Elsa Mendez, a bilingual Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in DC. I hold a bachelor's degree in psychology from Towson University and a master's in Social Work from Catholic University. My professional journey has led me to collaborate with diverse populations across the DC and Maryland regions. These experiences have enriched my perspective and equipped me with valuable insights into the diverse challenges individuals face from all walks of life. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate, and culturally sensitive space where your journey towards healing and growth can flourish.
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Photo of Suzanne M Goldberg, DMH, Psychologist
Suzanne M Goldberg
Psychologist, DMH
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
In my experience of over 40years in clinical practice, I have learned to use a variety of approaches to help people with a broad range of life problems. I began with a grounding in psychoanalytic theory,tempered with an awareness of cultural and socio-economic differences, enhanced by a foundation in medicine. My way of working is to listen carefully to develop an understanding of each person's background, history and world view in order to help that person understand his/her /their motives, emotions, behavior in order to resolve conflicts and lead a more fulfilled life with more satisfying relationships
In my experience of over 40years in clinical practice, I have learned to use a variety of approaches to help people with a broad range of life problems. I began with a grounding in psychoanalytic theory,tempered with an awareness of cultural and socio-economic differences, enhanced by a foundation in medicine. My way of working is to listen carefully to develop an understanding of each person's background, history and world view in order to help that person understand his/her /their motives, emotions, behavior in order to resolve conflicts and lead a more fulfilled life with more satisfying relationships
(202) 643-4910 View (202) 643-4910
Photo of Kate L Stewart, PhD, Psychologist
Kate L Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I value working with individuals from many different backgrounds, including folx from queer and trans communities, POC, and both college students and working adults. I’m a strong advocate for gender affirming health care. A significant focus of my work involves helping my clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships.
I value working with individuals from many different backgrounds, including folx from queer and trans communities, POC, and both college students and working adults. I’m a strong advocate for gender affirming health care. A significant focus of my work involves helping my clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships.
(202) 933-5634 View (202) 933-5634
Photo of Joanna Chakerian, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Chakerian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I work with adults 18 and older on a broad range of issues, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, trauma, perinatal health, and grief/loss. My therapeutic approach is primarily psychodynamic, while incorporating cognitive behavioral and mindfulness modalities. Therapy is a collaborative relationship, and I believe in creating a warm, non-judgmental and engaging environment to understand clients’ unique goals, strengths, and challenges. I consider it a privilege to help my clients walk through the ups and downs of their daily lives, and grow and thrive in the long term.
I work with adults 18 and older on a broad range of issues, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, life transitions, trauma, perinatal health, and grief/loss. My therapeutic approach is primarily psychodynamic, while incorporating cognitive behavioral and mindfulness modalities. Therapy is a collaborative relationship, and I believe in creating a warm, non-judgmental and engaging environment to understand clients’ unique goals, strengths, and challenges. I consider it a privilege to help my clients walk through the ups and downs of their daily lives, and grow and thrive in the long term.
(301) 396-7768 View (301) 396-7768
Photo of Sabrina Valdez, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrina Valdez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Have you ever wondered why life might feel like a growing mountain to which you are unsure of how to begin to climb? Have you experienced a lack of purpose or direction in life and feel stuck? Are relationships harder to maintain? My goal is to create a space where you, as the client, feels safe to share your thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Over the past 9 years I have used my clinical training to help individuals, couples and families untangle the scary, messy, and upsetting parts of their lives.
Have you ever wondered why life might feel like a growing mountain to which you are unsure of how to begin to climb? Have you experienced a lack of purpose or direction in life and feel stuck? Are relationships harder to maintain? My goal is to create a space where you, as the client, feels safe to share your thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Over the past 9 years I have used my clinical training to help individuals, couples and families untangle the scary, messy, and upsetting parts of their lives.
(858) 318-7294 View (858) 318-7294
Photo of Karin S Tovar, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karin S Tovar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
It may be that life deals us the unexpected, or perhaps things just slowly begin to feel “off”—whatever the case may be, we can find growth and healing by exploring the ways our past affects our present. Scary? Definitely! But accessing these versions of ourselves that have been dormant is what helps us shift from surviving to thriving. Whether you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma, or feeling burned out, I can help become a truer version of yourself. For your convenience, I offer online appointments for clients located in DC and MD, or in person appointments at my office in Farragut Square, DC.
It may be that life deals us the unexpected, or perhaps things just slowly begin to feel “off”—whatever the case may be, we can find growth and healing by exploring the ways our past affects our present. Scary? Definitely! But accessing these versions of ourselves that have been dormant is what helps us shift from surviving to thriving. Whether you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma, or feeling burned out, I can help become a truer version of yourself. For your convenience, I offer online appointments for clients located in DC and MD, or in person appointments at my office in Farragut Square, DC.
(202) 968-2649 View (202) 968-2649
Photo of Melissa Huang, LGPC, Counselor
Melissa Huang
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Sometimes in life, we feel stuck: stuck in a feeling we don’t like, stuck in patterns of behavior we want to break, or stuck in our relationships. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for my clients to work through whatever struggles keep them from thriving. Bringing warmth and empathy, I will meet you where you are and work with you to achieve your wellness goals. I love helping clients understand and express their emotions, make meaning of their past experiences and present realities, and connect with others in healthy ways.
Sometimes in life, we feel stuck: stuck in a feeling we don’t like, stuck in patterns of behavior we want to break, or stuck in our relationships. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for my clients to work through whatever struggles keep them from thriving. Bringing warmth and empathy, I will meet you where you are and work with you to achieve your wellness goals. I love helping clients understand and express their emotions, make meaning of their past experiences and present realities, and connect with others in healthy ways.
(202) 929-6757 View (202) 929-6757
Photo of Sadiqa Long - SRL Consulting, LLC, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
SRL Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
Greetings, I am Dr. Sadiqa Long and I appreciate the opportunity to be of service for your therapy. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (DC and VA), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (MD) and a National Certified Counselor, in addition to an Approved Clinical Supervisor. I use client-centered, reality therapy, and cognitive-behavioral approaches to treatment. I have worked in the counseling profession for nine years and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults.
Greetings, I am Dr. Sadiqa Long and I appreciate the opportunity to be of service for your therapy. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (DC and VA), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (MD) and a National Certified Counselor, in addition to an Approved Clinical Supervisor. I use client-centered, reality therapy, and cognitive-behavioral approaches to treatment. I have worked in the counseling profession for nine years and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults.
(844) 509-2265 View (844) 509-2265
Photo of Larissa Godfrey-Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Larissa Godfrey-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Located in Union Market, Washington, DC, I specialize in gender and queer topics. The clients I enjoy working with the most are teens, adults, couples, and families with identities that are often seen as outside of the “typical”: transgender and gender-expansive, queer, blended families, and formerly religious. They are seeking a safe space to process challenges, practice acceptance, gain strength, and secure support, without having to explain their identity, family dynamic, or risk be criticized because of it.
Located in Union Market, Washington, DC, I specialize in gender and queer topics. The clients I enjoy working with the most are teens, adults, couples, and families with identities that are often seen as outside of the “typical”: transgender and gender-expansive, queer, blended families, and formerly religious. They are seeking a safe space to process challenges, practice acceptance, gain strength, and secure support, without having to explain their identity, family dynamic, or risk be criticized because of it.
(202) 301-4605 View (202) 301-4605
Photo of Dr. Shelley L Marfori, Psy D, Psychologist
Dr. Shelley L Marfori
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, a trauma survivor, and someone with a chronic pain disorder; I approach the work that I do from a place of empathy and personal understanding. I have an intense passion for understanding personal identity and the way race, culture, class, and sexuality come together to form what we believe about ourselves and what we feel we can accomplish in our lives. Anxiety and trauma can live in our bodies - together we will create a relationship that fosters dynamic and lasting growth, tapping into undiscovered reserves of resiliency that will help navigate the past and prepare for a more hopeful future.
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, a trauma survivor, and someone with a chronic pain disorder; I approach the work that I do from a place of empathy and personal understanding. I have an intense passion for understanding personal identity and the way race, culture, class, and sexuality come together to form what we believe about ourselves and what we feel we can accomplish in our lives. Anxiety and trauma can live in our bodies - together we will create a relationship that fosters dynamic and lasting growth, tapping into undiscovered reserves of resiliency that will help navigate the past and prepare for a more hopeful future.
(202) 919-6929 x779 View (202) 919-6929 x779
Photo of Taylor Sinton, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Sinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Not accepting new clients
I am a Clinical Social Worker in the District of Columbia who specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I work with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, divorce, learning disorders, life transitions, personality disorders, grief, and anger outbursts. I also have experience with behavior management, interpersonal relationships, emotion regulation, crisis support, and social skills. I work collaboratively with the family and allied services to best meet client needs.
I am a Clinical Social Worker in the District of Columbia who specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I work with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, divorce, learning disorders, life transitions, personality disorders, grief, and anger outbursts. I also have experience with behavior management, interpersonal relationships, emotion regulation, crisis support, and social skills. I work collaboratively with the family and allied services to best meet client needs.
(202) 931-7385 View (202) 931-7385
Photo of Maria del Carmen Puig-Casauranc, PhD, Psychologist
Maria del Carmen Puig-Casauranc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Everything comes down to RELATIONSHIPS! I am interested in working with you if you have had a difficult and painful childhood that continues to interfere with you finding happiness, joy, and contentment in your current life. If though you are bright, motivated, and most eager to find these things they continue to allude you, and, you are confused as to why all your efforts seem to be in vain, my decades of success with clients like you could be of great assistance for you to find what you seek.
Everything comes down to RELATIONSHIPS! I am interested in working with you if you have had a difficult and painful childhood that continues to interfere with you finding happiness, joy, and contentment in your current life. If though you are bright, motivated, and most eager to find these things they continue to allude you, and, you are confused as to why all your efforts seem to be in vain, my decades of success with clients like you could be of great assistance for you to find what you seek.
(202) 991-4323 View (202) 991-4323
Photo of Anne M. Garcia, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne M. Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Licensed in DC, Maryland and Texas! Are you tired of holding in painful secrets? I specialize in helping individuals heal from trauma. Sometimes, we might not always feel safe talking about the past and it can be extremely painful to re-live those experiences. However, talking about the past trauma you have experienced can help you break the silence and find hope for a better future. Me especializo en ayudar a las personas que han sufrido traumas y ayuda a personas que viven en DC, Maryland y Tejas.
Licensed in DC, Maryland and Texas! Are you tired of holding in painful secrets? I specialize in helping individuals heal from trauma. Sometimes, we might not always feel safe talking about the past and it can be extremely painful to re-live those experiences. However, talking about the past trauma you have experienced can help you break the silence and find hope for a better future. Me especializo en ayudar a las personas que han sufrido traumas y ayuda a personas que viven en DC, Maryland y Tejas.
(202) 817-2334 View (202) 817-2334
Photo of Roberta Rothstein, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roberta Rothstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Do you feel stuck? Maybe you can't seem to shake the blues. Maybe it’s a loss. Or you can’t make a crucial decision. Perhaps jittery moods have reduced your functioning. Or you’re unable to control unhealthy behavior. Maybe every conversation with your spouse becomes an argument. Feel more confident, improve your relationships, move from illness to health, reconnect with your creativity, learn valuable coping skills, take control of your life and just feel better. I can help you move forward through obstacles, uncovering your true potential. Our work helps you feel resilient, so you can set and reach your goals.
Do you feel stuck? Maybe you can't seem to shake the blues. Maybe it’s a loss. Or you can’t make a crucial decision. Perhaps jittery moods have reduced your functioning. Or you’re unable to control unhealthy behavior. Maybe every conversation with your spouse becomes an argument. Feel more confident, improve your relationships, move from illness to health, reconnect with your creativity, learn valuable coping skills, take control of your life and just feel better. I can help you move forward through obstacles, uncovering your true potential. Our work helps you feel resilient, so you can set and reach your goals.
(202) 618-4387 View (202) 618-4387

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Washington, DC

3,000+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
68% Stress
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

63% BlueCross and BlueShield
57% CareFirst
53% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Washington, DC see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Washington?

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.