Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Paula Emerick, LMFT, CADC I, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Emerick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
(971) 260-4121 View (971) 260-4121
Photo of Erica Tan, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Erica Tan
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
As a clinical psychologist trained as an integrationist, I enjoy working with people from a holistic perspective. I believe it is important to consider not only what is going on in the present, but also what has happened developmentally, biologically, interpersonally,and cognitively. In addition to conceptualizing our experiences as people from a systems perspective, I conduct individual, group, and family therapy using a DBT-informed frame of practice. What this means is that change comes about by learning new behaviors in a variety of contexts while balancing the reality of a person's situation and skill level with acceptance.
As a clinical psychologist trained as an integrationist, I enjoy working with people from a holistic perspective. I believe it is important to consider not only what is going on in the present, but also what has happened developmentally, biologically, interpersonally,and cognitively. In addition to conceptualizing our experiences as people from a systems perspective, I conduct individual, group, and family therapy using a DBT-informed frame of practice. What this means is that change comes about by learning new behaviors in a variety of contexts while balancing the reality of a person's situation and skill level with acceptance.
(503) 980-1301 View (503) 980-1301
Photo of Sandra Grass, MSEd,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Grass
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Aetna, Cigna, First Choice Health, Health Share/OHP, Humana Inc, Kaiser, Managed Health Network, MediNcrease, Medicaid, Moda, Molina, Optum, United Behavioral Health, Pacific Source Health Plans, Regence Blue Cross Blue Sheild, Tricare.
Aetna, Cigna, First Choice Health, Health Share/OHP, Humana Inc, Kaiser, Managed Health Network, MediNcrease, Medicaid, Moda, Molina, Optum, United Behavioral Health, Pacific Source Health Plans, Regence Blue Cross Blue Sheild, Tricare.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Sonali Patel, MA, LMFT, CADC1, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonali Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC1
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
As a family therapist, I believe that each family, couple and individual has the ability to heal using their own internal strengths. My focus is on restoring balance and building communication within families as they are integral in increasing the overall well-being of individuals, couples and families. I identify symptoms such as marital discord, addiction, behavioral issues among children and adolescents, mental and medical health issues as becoming an unhelpful part of the family system. My approach to reduce the impact of these symptoms and break harmful patterns is collaborative, encouraging members to be open and honest throughout the progression of therapy.
As a family therapist, I believe that each family, couple and individual has the ability to heal using their own internal strengths. My focus is on restoring balance and building communication within families as they are integral in increasing the overall well-being of individuals, couples and families. I identify symptoms such as marital discord, addiction, behavioral issues among children and adolescents, mental and medical health issues as becoming an unhelpful part of the family system. My approach to reduce the impact of these symptoms and break harmful patterns is collaborative, encouraging members to be open and honest throughout the progression of therapy.
(503) 894-5612 View (503) 894-5612
Photo of Christopher M Bartel, PsyD, Psychologist
Christopher M Bartel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Not accepting new clients
I work well with clients who are seeking to establish a deeper understanding of themselves, are curious about their inner lives and how their history has impacted them and lives on in present day, gaining increased insight and awareness into aspects of their experience that may be inaccessible or unconscious, and using the therapeutic relationship to better understand their own thoughts, feelings, and ways of relating with others.
I work well with clients who are seeking to establish a deeper understanding of themselves, are curious about their inner lives and how their history has impacted them and lives on in present day, gaining increased insight and awareness into aspects of their experience that may be inaccessible or unconscious, and using the therapeutic relationship to better understand their own thoughts, feelings, and ways of relating with others.
(971) 314-4742 View (971) 314-4742
Photo of Katherine (Kate) Nelson-Armstrong, MA, CADC II, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine (Kate) Nelson-Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CADC II, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
We often experience the most conflict with those to whom we are closest. This can cause strain and disconnect in our most valued relationships. While this can cause strain at any time, it can be especially prominent during pregnancy and the first few years after children are born. Parenting can be incredibly rewarding…. and one of the most challenging times in our lives. It can also be an opportunity for change and growth. Individual, couples, and family therapy can help you reconnect with others, deepen and strengthen your ability to support and nurture your relationships, and your children.
We often experience the most conflict with those to whom we are closest. This can cause strain and disconnect in our most valued relationships. While this can cause strain at any time, it can be especially prominent during pregnancy and the first few years after children are born. Parenting can be incredibly rewarding…. and one of the most challenging times in our lives. It can also be an opportunity for change and growth. Individual, couples, and family therapy can help you reconnect with others, deepen and strengthen your ability to support and nurture your relationships, and your children.
Photo of Lindsey Cullins, MSW, CSWA
Lindsey Cullins
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
You may feel weighed down by anxiety, stress, or depression. Sometimes you question your ability to find peace or cope with everything happening in your life. Maybe you’re going through a big transition, dealing with chronic health challenges, or struggling with the deep pain of loss and grief. Deep down, you’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of trust in yourself. You want to break free from the patterns that hold you back—whether that’s self-doubt, limiting beliefs, or relationship difficulties. Most of all, you’re looking for a safe, supportive space to explore your feelings and build strength to move forward.
You may feel weighed down by anxiety, stress, or depression. Sometimes you question your ability to find peace or cope with everything happening in your life. Maybe you’re going through a big transition, dealing with chronic health challenges, or struggling with the deep pain of loss and grief. Deep down, you’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of trust in yourself. You want to break free from the patterns that hold you back—whether that’s self-doubt, limiting beliefs, or relationship difficulties. Most of all, you’re looking for a safe, supportive space to explore your feelings and build strength to move forward.
(503) 966-3310 View (503) 966-3310
Photo of Vera Alcorn - Amenda Clinic, ND, MA
Amenda Clinic
ND, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
We are an integrative mental health clinic that offers a broad range of therapies with both Counselors and Naturopaths. This holistic approach allows patients to experience healing at a biological and emotional level with a team of collaborative caregivers that surpasses the use of just a therapist or just medication or just any one thing. You can have your whole story heard, the big picture of your mental and physical health supported all in one, for healing unlike you've experienced yet.
We are an integrative mental health clinic that offers a broad range of therapies with both Counselors and Naturopaths. This holistic approach allows patients to experience healing at a biological and emotional level with a team of collaborative caregivers that surpasses the use of just a therapist or just medication or just any one thing. You can have your whole story heard, the big picture of your mental and physical health supported all in one, for healing unlike you've experienced yet.
(503) 470-7776 View (503) 470-7776
Photo of Karma L Brooks - Karma Brooks, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karma Brooks, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I AM CURRENTLY FULL, however am taking referrals from clients and colleagues. TELETHERAPY ONLY (VIDEO SESSIONS) UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Karma is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned her Master's of Social Work from Portland State University. She has been working in the field of mental health and addiction services for the last 20 years. She works with adults, couples and adolescents. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, impulse control, communication and addiction.
I AM CURRENTLY FULL, however am taking referrals from clients and colleagues. TELETHERAPY ONLY (VIDEO SESSIONS) UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Karma is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned her Master's of Social Work from Portland State University. She has been working in the field of mental health and addiction services for the last 20 years. She works with adults, couples and adolescents. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, impulse control, communication and addiction.
(503) 351-7969 View (503) 351-7969
Photo of Gregory Maloof, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gregory Maloof
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, My name is Gregory Maloof. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, Oregon. I have been working professionally in the mental health and social services field for over 14 years and I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. I also have experience supporting clients in a variety of settings, including private practice, home-based services, schools, residential facilities, hospitals, and community mental health centers.
Hello, My name is Gregory Maloof. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, Oregon. I have been working professionally in the mental health and social services field for over 14 years and I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. I also have experience supporting clients in a variety of settings, including private practice, home-based services, schools, residential facilities, hospitals, and community mental health centers.
(503) 461-8576 View (503) 461-8576
Photo of Tyesha M McCool-Riley - Principles of Peace , MAC
Principles of Peace
MAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have worked in the mental health field for several years; I have past experience as a clinician in various capacities working with women, children, adolescents, and families who have experienced adverse circumstances that include sexual abuse, addiction, domestic violence, DHS involvement, involvement in the criminal justice system among other circumstance that had a significant impact on their lives and mental health. My lived and professional experiences create space for me to position myself to walk along side of you as you embark of your journey of healing and self discovery and growth. Client empowerment is my priority.
I have worked in the mental health field for several years; I have past experience as a clinician in various capacities working with women, children, adolescents, and families who have experienced adverse circumstances that include sexual abuse, addiction, domestic violence, DHS involvement, involvement in the criminal justice system among other circumstance that had a significant impact on their lives and mental health. My lived and professional experiences create space for me to position myself to walk along side of you as you embark of your journey of healing and self discovery and growth. Client empowerment is my priority.
(971) 299-7119 View (971) 299-7119
Photo of Jacquelyn Shelpman, MEd, MS
Jacquelyn Shelpman
MEd, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Would you like to improve your assertive communication skills, manage stress and conflict more effectively, deepen your relationships and improve your sense of well-being? If so, therapy may be able to help you reach your goals. You may also be struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or a major life transition. Talking with someone you trust can help you discover key insights, barriers to change, and effective coping strategies. Participating in therapy takes a lot of courage: my goal is to provide a safe environment where you can share what's most important to you and we can work together to support your growth.
Would you like to improve your assertive communication skills, manage stress and conflict more effectively, deepen your relationships and improve your sense of well-being? If so, therapy may be able to help you reach your goals. You may also be struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or a major life transition. Talking with someone you trust can help you discover key insights, barriers to change, and effective coping strategies. Participating in therapy takes a lot of courage: my goal is to provide a safe environment where you can share what's most important to you and we can work together to support your growth.
(971) 314-6629 View (971) 314-6629
Photo of Kellie Nunn, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kellie Nunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Kellie graduated from the University of North Dakota with her Masters in Social Work and obtained a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Kellie's work experience includes working with children with various mental health, behavioral and social skills concerns, as well as parent guidance and family therapy.
Kellie graduated from the University of North Dakota with her Masters in Social Work and obtained a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Kellie's work experience includes working with children with various mental health, behavioral and social skills concerns, as well as parent guidance and family therapy.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Mollie Birney - Mollie Birney Clinical Coaching, MA
Mollie Birney Clinical Coaching
MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Whether we're struggling with anxiety, overthinking a career pivot or grappling with self-destructive relationship patterns, this work is about changing our relationship with the noise in heads so we can live with more authenticity and freedom. Through a hybrid of therapeutic and coaching interventions I work with clients to alchemize original wounds into assets, challenge cognitive distortions, identify core confusions and intervene on unconscious, fear-based belief systems. No mind hacks, no mantras, just compassionate straight-talk that will demand your grit, your courage, and most likely a sense of humor.
Whether we're struggling with anxiety, overthinking a career pivot or grappling with self-destructive relationship patterns, this work is about changing our relationship with the noise in heads so we can live with more authenticity and freedom. Through a hybrid of therapeutic and coaching interventions I work with clients to alchemize original wounds into assets, challenge cognitive distortions, identify core confusions and intervene on unconscious, fear-based belief systems. No mind hacks, no mantras, just compassionate straight-talk that will demand your grit, your courage, and most likely a sense of humor.
(971) 626-1844 View (971) 626-1844
Healing Tides Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
We are a group practice. Each person in our office offers culturally sensitive therapy with unique emphases, specialties, and qualifications. Our therapists all come from different backgrounds, which makes our practice community rich in knowledge and helps us grow collectively. We strive to connect you with the person best suited to help you with your challenges and who will most understand where you are coming from.
We are a group practice. Each person in our office offers culturally sensitive therapy with unique emphases, specialties, and qualifications. Our therapists all come from different backgrounds, which makes our practice community rich in knowledge and helps us grow collectively. We strive to connect you with the person best suited to help you with your challenges and who will most understand where you are coming from.
(971) 253-7117 View (971) 253-7117
Photo of Zachary Newman, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zachary Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Unhappy at work, have unsatisfying relationships, feel burned out or stressed out? Maybe you're feeling stuck, somewhat anxious or depressed--know there's a better way? Dealing with serious health issues? Don't know how you're going to get through life's new twist? Often, our problems are the little "initiators," our opportunities for creating change. Usually, that first email or call, deciding to begin, means you're halfway there. You've prepared. Now's the time for a skilled, supportive hand to walk with you. I've had 25+ years experience helping folks calmly, with insight, to find their own best solutions.
Unhappy at work, have unsatisfying relationships, feel burned out or stressed out? Maybe you're feeling stuck, somewhat anxious or depressed--know there's a better way? Dealing with serious health issues? Don't know how you're going to get through life's new twist? Often, our problems are the little "initiators," our opportunities for creating change. Usually, that first email or call, deciding to begin, means you're halfway there. You've prepared. Now's the time for a skilled, supportive hand to walk with you. I've had 25+ years experience helping folks calmly, with insight, to find their own best solutions.
(971) 803-6008 View (971) 803-6008
Photo of Chris Lehman, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Lehman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Not accepting new clients
As a counselor, I'm here to help. I am humbled to be of service helping you grow, heal, and learn from the challenges you face. It is my experience that people often come to counseling, " tangled up " from their own experiences, thoughts and feelings. Just the act of giving that gift of counseling support to yourself, taking time out from your daily life, and creating that space for reflection can bring immediate and lasting relief.
As a counselor, I'm here to help. I am humbled to be of service helping you grow, heal, and learn from the challenges you face. It is my experience that people often come to counseling, " tangled up " from their own experiences, thoughts and feelings. Just the act of giving that gift of counseling support to yourself, taking time out from your daily life, and creating that space for reflection can bring immediate and lasting relief.
(503) 917-3256 View (503) 917-3256
Photo of Jane Newman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jane Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
My specialties include grief and loss/life transitions, living with chronic illness, and skills including stress management. My areas of specialty often encompass issues related to anxiety, depression and diminished self-esteem. I work with individuals, couples, families - adults and teens. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, confidential and non-judgmental environment - to serve you with presence and respect. My belief is that each individual has the ability to find his/her own answers - my role is to help facilitate the process. My work is predominantly humanistic and client-centered,but integrates other theories of counseling as needed.
My specialties include grief and loss/life transitions, living with chronic illness, and skills including stress management. My areas of specialty often encompass issues related to anxiety, depression and diminished self-esteem. I work with individuals, couples, families - adults and teens. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, confidential and non-judgmental environment - to serve you with presence and respect. My belief is that each individual has the ability to find his/her own answers - my role is to help facilitate the process. My work is predominantly humanistic and client-centered,but integrates other theories of counseling as needed.
(503) 564-0036 View (503) 564-0036
Photo of Shelley Sauer, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley Sauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to help you feel more grounded in yourself, and ultimately more tethered to your inner wisdom. I work with people who want to feel better and navigate life with more ease. I've found that talking things through can help shift thinking, and develop solutions; that somatic (body) work can address problem areas that the mind can't seem to get to. Somatic-focused EMDR, where we track the body sensations more closely and stay with, or work with, what shows up, can make the therapy processing even more effective. It has also been shown to resolve the kinds of problematic patterns that keep showing up in our lives.
My goal is to help you feel more grounded in yourself, and ultimately more tethered to your inner wisdom. I work with people who want to feel better and navigate life with more ease. I've found that talking things through can help shift thinking, and develop solutions; that somatic (body) work can address problem areas that the mind can't seem to get to. Somatic-focused EMDR, where we track the body sensations more closely and stay with, or work with, what shows up, can make the therapy processing even more effective. It has also been shown to resolve the kinds of problematic patterns that keep showing up in our lives.
(503) 567-4490 View (503) 567-4490
Photo of Sonja Choi Heifetz, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sonja Choi Heifetz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Taking New Clients: Everyone has the essential ingredients for positive change. Individuals and couples who seek my support are in a difficult moment or intersection in life; seeking resolution between internal and external pressures; seeking satisfaction and harmony in relationships, identity, career, society, etc. I support clients who seek to deepen and broaden their perspective on who they are and who they want to become by examining self-limiting narratives, refining self-mastery, and cultivating self-compassion. BIPOC and multicultural clients often seek my support as well as those who want more from therapy than just insight.
Taking New Clients: Everyone has the essential ingredients for positive change. Individuals and couples who seek my support are in a difficult moment or intersection in life; seeking resolution between internal and external pressures; seeking satisfaction and harmony in relationships, identity, career, society, etc. I support clients who seek to deepen and broaden their perspective on who they are and who they want to become by examining self-limiting narratives, refining self-mastery, and cultivating self-compassion. BIPOC and multicultural clients often seek my support as well as those who want more from therapy than just insight.
(971) 224-7660 View (971) 224-7660
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

53% PacificSource
52% Aetna
40% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
22% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.