Therapists in Denver, CO

View neighborhoods in Denver
Photo of Regina Hopkins, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina Hopkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222  (Online Only)
Are you feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or stuck—whether in a relationship or in your personal life? I’m here to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered. We’ll explore past patterns and emotions that may be hindering your growth, using tools for clearer communication and deeper self-awareness, including Nonviolent Communication (NVC), somatic mind/body work, and mindfulness practices. I actively practice these skills with you in a supportive environment to help build healthier connections and achieve your goals. I also specialize in career counseling, guiding you through life transitions and finding fulfillment in your job.
Are you feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or stuck—whether in a relationship or in your personal life? I’m here to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered. We’ll explore past patterns and emotions that may be hindering your growth, using tools for clearer communication and deeper self-awareness, including Nonviolent Communication (NVC), somatic mind/body work, and mindfulness practices. I actively practice these skills with you in a supportive environment to help build healthier connections and achieve your goals. I also specialize in career counseling, guiding you through life transitions and finding fulfillment in your job.
(720) 770-4051 View (720) 770-4051
Photo of Dr. Amber Chambless, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Amber Chambless
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
Therapy is all about you-you're the expert. I take a client-centered, solution-focused approach to therapy. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative one in which you are the expert on yourself, and I come into the session with the experience and skills to help. I have a laid back style and like using humor, when appropriate. I enjoy working with children, adolescent, and adult clients who are struggling with eating disorders, mood issues, life transitions, and chronic health issues.
Therapy is all about you-you're the expert. I take a client-centered, solution-focused approach to therapy. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative one in which you are the expert on yourself, and I come into the session with the experience and skills to help. I have a laid back style and like using humor, when appropriate. I enjoy working with children, adolescent, and adult clients who are struggling with eating disorders, mood issues, life transitions, and chronic health issues.
(720) 778-8034 View (720) 778-8034
Photo of Lauren Shelton-Neurodivergence And Trauma Recovery, LCSW, ACD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Shelton-Neurodivergence And Trauma Recovery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Navigating trauma, anxiety, ADHD, neurodivergence, or women's health issues can present unique challenges. I work with clients who find themselves struggling after difficult life experiences. You might be facing difficulties in relationships, completing tasks, or living the life you know you could be. Perhaps you have a collection of lists that never get done, or your home feels chaotic because you don't know where to start. You want a safe space to process your problems while gaining practical tools that work. I can help you with that.
Navigating trauma, anxiety, ADHD, neurodivergence, or women's health issues can present unique challenges. I work with clients who find themselves struggling after difficult life experiences. You might be facing difficulties in relationships, completing tasks, or living the life you know you could be. Perhaps you have a collection of lists that never get done, or your home feels chaotic because you don't know where to start. You want a safe space to process your problems while gaining practical tools that work. I can help you with that.
(720) 782-8812 View (720) 782-8812
Photo of Robert Allan, PhD, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert Allan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
In practice since 2004, my background includes a variety of settings, including community mental health, hospitals, employee assistance programs and private practice. I am an Associate Professor of Couple and Family Therapy at the University of Colorado Denver and an EFT certified therapist, supervisor and trainer with the International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT). I work with individuals, relationships, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, infidelity, adjustment to life transitions, trauma, addictions, relationship challenges and more.
In practice since 2004, my background includes a variety of settings, including community mental health, hospitals, employee assistance programs and private practice. I am an Associate Professor of Couple and Family Therapy at the University of Colorado Denver and an EFT certified therapist, supervisor and trainer with the International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT). I work with individuals, relationships, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, infidelity, adjustment to life transitions, trauma, addictions, relationship challenges and more.
(720) 571-8273 View (720) 571-8273
Photo of Matthew Saks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Saks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
My practice focuses on helping individuals and couples struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, addiction, and relationship challenges.
My practice focuses on helping individuals and couples struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, addiction, and relationship challenges.
(720) 770-3657 View (720) 770-3657
Photo of Esther Rivera, MSW, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esther Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80249  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Esther Rivera a dedicated, compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC). I have extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to diverse populations. I specialize in mental health counseling and substance use, offering individual therapy in both English and Spanish. I am particularly passionate about helping adults who have experienced trauma, those seeking to work through generational patterns that have inhibited the development of their authentic selves, working with the Latinx clients.
Hello! I am Esther Rivera a dedicated, compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC). I have extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to diverse populations. I specialize in mental health counseling and substance use, offering individual therapy in both English and Spanish. I am particularly passionate about helping adults who have experienced trauma, those seeking to work through generational patterns that have inhibited the development of their authentic selves, working with the Latinx clients.
View
Photo of Ashley Ryan Martinek - Blackbird Counseling, LLC, LCSW, LAC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Blackbird Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addiction Counselor. For the past nine years, I have helped adult individuals and groups heal from mental/behavioral health issues and substance addiction utilizing a variety of evidence-based practices. My approach focuses on cultivating self-acceptance & self-love, learning how to heal through traumatic and difficult experiences to find strength and resiliency. In a therapy session with me, you will find a direct and non-judgmental approach, with humor and warmth. My goal is to empower you to manage difficult emotions & find purpose, passion, and connection in your life.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addiction Counselor. For the past nine years, I have helped adult individuals and groups heal from mental/behavioral health issues and substance addiction utilizing a variety of evidence-based practices. My approach focuses on cultivating self-acceptance & self-love, learning how to heal through traumatic and difficult experiences to find strength and resiliency. In a therapy session with me, you will find a direct and non-judgmental approach, with humor and warmth. My goal is to empower you to manage difficult emotions & find purpose, passion, and connection in your life.
(720) 575-5664 View (720) 575-5664
Photo of Meaghan Rice, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meaghan Rice
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
The work at our group practice, Better Lives Building Tribes, focuses on that complex point, at which, individuals intersect with another. Through intimate/romantic relationships, friendships, partnerships, families, and organizations that we are surrounded by, we learn where individual strengths and weaknesses are. Through that knowledge and understanding, we work with people to discover creative means of closing the gap between where people are right now and where they would ideally like to be.
The work at our group practice, Better Lives Building Tribes, focuses on that complex point, at which, individuals intersect with another. Through intimate/romantic relationships, friendships, partnerships, families, and organizations that we are surrounded by, we learn where individual strengths and weaknesses are. Through that knowledge and understanding, we work with people to discover creative means of closing the gap between where people are right now and where they would ideally like to be.
(720) 741-6549 View (720) 741-6549
Photo of Austin Saiz, LPCC, AAT
Austin Saiz
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, AAT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203  (Online Only)
Let’s face it, life can be f-ing rough sometimes. Just when you think things are about to settle, another thing pops up. And when you're in the thick of it, asking for help can be tough. That’s where therapy can be a game changer. Looking for a therapist and finding yourself here is a wonderful first step to making things a little less tough. So who is this guy? I’m a queer identified, latinx, male therapist with eight years of experience and a passion for working with folks from all walks of life, including adults and teens, LGBTQ+ people, and people living with HIV.
Let’s face it, life can be f-ing rough sometimes. Just when you think things are about to settle, another thing pops up. And when you're in the thick of it, asking for help can be tough. That’s where therapy can be a game changer. Looking for a therapist and finding yourself here is a wonderful first step to making things a little less tough. So who is this guy? I’m a queer identified, latinx, male therapist with eight years of experience and a passion for working with folks from all walks of life, including adults and teens, LGBTQ+ people, and people living with HIV.
(720) 928-3625 View (720) 928-3625
Photo of Shaayestah Merchant, PsyD, Psychologist
Shaayestah Merchant
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
Often it can be difficult to deal with painful life circumstances on your own. Therapy with an experienced professional can help you address these difficult issues in a supportive yet challenging environment. I understand that there is no one approach to deal with life's tough issues. I am committed to working collaboratively with my clients to meet their goals and tailoring therapy to their specific needs and experiences. Additionally, I am deeply committed to providing culturally responsive treatment to every client I work with. I believe this is crucial for any type of psychotherapy to be effective and helpful.
Often it can be difficult to deal with painful life circumstances on your own. Therapy with an experienced professional can help you address these difficult issues in a supportive yet challenging environment. I understand that there is no one approach to deal with life's tough issues. I am committed to working collaboratively with my clients to meet their goals and tailoring therapy to their specific needs and experiences. Additionally, I am deeply committed to providing culturally responsive treatment to every client I work with. I believe this is crucial for any type of psychotherapy to be effective and helpful.
(720) 606-2771 View (720) 606-2771
Photo of Carly Johnson, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Carly Johnson
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I believe that wellness begins with identifying and moving toward meaningful goals within the supportive context of a trusting therapeutic relationship. An area of passionate focus for me is my work with children and adults who have experienced a variety of traumas and losses. My clinical experience includes private practice, individual therapy with children and adolescents in public and private school settings, residential treatment with high-risk youth in the custody of the state, and community mental health center services with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I welcome clients' diverse perspectives and unique life contexts.
I believe that wellness begins with identifying and moving toward meaningful goals within the supportive context of a trusting therapeutic relationship. An area of passionate focus for me is my work with children and adults who have experienced a variety of traumas and losses. My clinical experience includes private practice, individual therapy with children and adolescents in public and private school settings, residential treatment with high-risk youth in the custody of the state, and community mental health center services with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I welcome clients' diverse perspectives and unique life contexts.
(720) 924-4365 View (720) 924-4365
Photo of Kevin Michael Dougherty, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Michael Dougherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
I feel that family connection and communication is the foundation for healthy futures for both adults and adolescents. As a seasoned LCSW in the Denver metro area I have extensive experience in working with youth and families in getting through these challenging experiences and moving towards healthier communication, relationships and futures. I offer in-home family and individual work that addresses issues related to juvenile justice involvement, patterns of oppositional behaviors, school issues, unhealthy relationships and other presenting mental health issues. Family therapy addresses family relationships, parenting skills, communication challenges, and understanding healthy rules, roles and responsibilities.
I feel that family connection and communication is the foundation for healthy futures for both adults and adolescents. As a seasoned LCSW in the Denver metro area I have extensive experience in working with youth and families in getting through these challenging experiences and moving towards healthier communication, relationships and futures. I offer in-home family and individual work that addresses issues related to juvenile justice involvement, patterns of oppositional behaviors, school issues, unhealthy relationships and other presenting mental health issues. Family therapy addresses family relationships, parenting skills, communication challenges, and understanding healthy rules, roles and responsibilities.
(720) 924-4078 View (720) 924-4078
Photo of Neha Prabhu, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Neha Prabhu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80022  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a relationship therapist, couples counselor and sex therapist who strives to create an inclusive environment so people and couples of all backgrounds can feel safe, supported, and free to be honest about their experiences. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, family members and beyond who are motivated to increase emotional safety, rebuild trust, navigate life transitions (including dating coaching, premarital counseling, break ups/divorces, and healing after infidelity), openly communicate and increase emotional and sexual intimacy.
I'm a relationship therapist, couples counselor and sex therapist who strives to create an inclusive environment so people and couples of all backgrounds can feel safe, supported, and free to be honest about their experiences. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, family members and beyond who are motivated to increase emotional safety, rebuild trust, navigate life transitions (including dating coaching, premarital counseling, break ups/divorces, and healing after infidelity), openly communicate and increase emotional and sexual intimacy.
(720) 605-2681 View (720) 605-2681
Photo of Paula Jane Friedland, LCSW, CPCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Jane Friedland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
I am a hybrid between a counselor and coach. I work with a high functioning population: people who are generally doing fine, but want more than "fine". I help people from all walks of life to find more meaning and happiness in their personal and professional lives. I use a very personable approach, and treat each client as their own unique entity, using tools that address their specific needs.
I am a hybrid between a counselor and coach. I work with a high functioning population: people who are generally doing fine, but want more than "fine". I help people from all walks of life to find more meaning and happiness in their personal and professional lives. I use a very personable approach, and treat each client as their own unique entity, using tools that address their specific needs.
(720) 650-0465 View (720) 650-0465
Photo of Ann Heckman-Davis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann Heckman-Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
Making changes in our lives takes great courage and strength. In reading this, you have already taken your first step! Ann has four years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families, particularly those who have experienced trauma or stressful life events. She incorporates an eclectic range of several different therapeutic modalities to ensure she can tailor her approach to best fit each client. Modalities she draws from include Trauma Systems Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Person-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
Making changes in our lives takes great courage and strength. In reading this, you have already taken your first step! Ann has four years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families, particularly those who have experienced trauma or stressful life events. She incorporates an eclectic range of several different therapeutic modalities to ensure she can tailor her approach to best fit each client. Modalities she draws from include Trauma Systems Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Person-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
(720) 463-0183 View (720) 463-0183
Photo of Julia Shirar, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Shirar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
My approach is rooted in the belief that no matter what a person has going on, there is always an internal compass guiding them towards integration. In our sessions, we will incorporate Jungian/depth psychology, IFS/parts work, relational psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, & mindfulness (MBCT). We can also incorporate creativity therapy, dreamwork, and body-focused techniques.
My approach is rooted in the belief that no matter what a person has going on, there is always an internal compass guiding them towards integration. In our sessions, we will incorporate Jungian/depth psychology, IFS/parts work, relational psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, & mindfulness (MBCT). We can also incorporate creativity therapy, dreamwork, and body-focused techniques.
(720) 807-8723 View (720) 807-8723
Photo of Jerrold Yeo, PsyD, Psychologist
Jerrold Yeo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
Stressors related to work, relationships, medical conditions and other key areas of life occur every single day, and sometimes they may become overwhelming and out of control. Most of the time, we are able to help ourselves out of these types of situations, but there are times when it is too challenging to handle alone. When that happens, we often find ourselves stuck and unable to react, or continue to use solutions that may not be the best for us. It can be very draining and demotivating, and spiraling out of control. We sometimes want someone to find a solution for us, while at other times, we just want someone to listen to us.
Stressors related to work, relationships, medical conditions and other key areas of life occur every single day, and sometimes they may become overwhelming and out of control. Most of the time, we are able to help ourselves out of these types of situations, but there are times when it is too challenging to handle alone. When that happens, we often find ourselves stuck and unable to react, or continue to use solutions that may not be the best for us. It can be very draining and demotivating, and spiraling out of control. We sometimes want someone to find a solution for us, while at other times, we just want someone to listen to us.
(303) 276-1393 View (303) 276-1393
Photo of Cassie Sanchez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassie Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
As a therapist of many years, I have worked with a diverse range of clients with various issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depressive orders, bi-polar spectrum disorders, and disorders of childhood. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and affirming and have experience with children of divorce, relationship conflict, co-parenting difficulties and various forms of trauma, and life transitions/adjustments. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life.
As a therapist of many years, I have worked with a diverse range of clients with various issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depressive orders, bi-polar spectrum disorders, and disorders of childhood. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and affirming and have experience with children of divorce, relationship conflict, co-parenting difficulties and various forms of trauma, and life transitions/adjustments. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life.
(720) 961-8483 View (720) 961-8483
Photo of Kate Nielsen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Nielsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203  (Online Only)
You are unlike any other being that exists. You are a creative force. You go against the grain and it might feel like you don't fit in. Society has tried to box you in for so long that you've pushed away and hidden little parts of your soul. You may have numbed your feelings and ignored your heart's desires as a trade for comfort, stability, acceptance, and normalcy. I understand, because I've been there too, but this is what I know for sure. Our soul is crying out for true freedom.
You are unlike any other being that exists. You are a creative force. You go against the grain and it might feel like you don't fit in. Society has tried to box you in for so long that you've pushed away and hidden little parts of your soul. You may have numbed your feelings and ignored your heart's desires as a trade for comfort, stability, acceptance, and normalcy. I understand, because I've been there too, but this is what I know for sure. Our soul is crying out for true freedom.
(720) 709-2450 View (720) 709-2450
Photo of Nicole Alipour, MA
Nicole Alipour
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , MA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
Here’s a glimpse into who I am and what I’m all about. As a therapist, my primary goal is to build a connection with you, creating a safe and welcoming space where you can freely express yourself. I believe that the foundation of our work together lies in the trust and understanding we cultivate in our client-therapist relationship. My approach revolves around exploring your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and life experiences, both past and present. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of your unique journey, we can uncover what might be holding you back or causing you distress. I'm passionate about blending mindfulness and
Here’s a glimpse into who I am and what I’m all about. As a therapist, my primary goal is to build a connection with you, creating a safe and welcoming space where you can freely express yourself. I believe that the foundation of our work together lies in the trust and understanding we cultivate in our client-therapist relationship. My approach revolves around exploring your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and life experiences, both past and present. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of your unique journey, we can uncover what might be holding you back or causing you distress. I'm passionate about blending mindfulness and
View
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Denver, CO

3,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Self Esteem
71% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
66% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Denver, CO see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Denver?

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.