Therapists in Escambia County, FL

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Photo of Pamela Lee Downey - Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback , MS, LMHC, Counselor
Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32502
Since 2013, I’ve worked with a range of mental health concerns in my private practice. In 2015 I learned of NeruoTherapy and utilized it as part of a wellness based inpatient program. And in 2017 I introduced it to my private practice. After seeing remarkable improvements with so many client concerns, (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, TBI, Stroke Recovery, ADHD, Sleep Issues, Memory, Focus, Performance Enhancement, and more), Emerald Coast NeruoFeedback was founded in 2021, making it available outside of my counseling practice. At ECNF we combine cutting edge software with years of clinical experience from assessment to implementation.
Since 2013, I’ve worked with a range of mental health concerns in my private practice. In 2015 I learned of NeruoTherapy and utilized it as part of a wellness based inpatient program. And in 2017 I introduced it to my private practice. After seeing remarkable improvements with so many client concerns, (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, TBI, Stroke Recovery, ADHD, Sleep Issues, Memory, Focus, Performance Enhancement, and more), Emerald Coast NeruoFeedback was founded in 2021, making it available outside of my counseling practice. At ECNF we combine cutting edge software with years of clinical experience from assessment to implementation.
(850) 616-2525 View (850) 616-2525
Photo of Carol A Hicks, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol A Hicks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32503  (Online Only)
Each client is unique regardless of the issue which motivates therapy. Meeting with individuals or couples, I work to clarify goals and generate 'action-items'. I don't tell you what to do or what is wrong with you. I help you identify what you want and what you need to accomplish that. I help you retrieve desired resource experiences from your learning history and get them available in the current life contexts where you need them. My role includes serving as a 'translator' for couples as I help each one hear and understand what the other is trying to say.
Each client is unique regardless of the issue which motivates therapy. Meeting with individuals or couples, I work to clarify goals and generate 'action-items'. I don't tell you what to do or what is wrong with you. I help you identify what you want and what you need to accomplish that. I help you retrieve desired resource experiences from your learning history and get them available in the current life contexts where you need them. My role includes serving as a 'translator' for couples as I help each one hear and understand what the other is trying to say.
(850) 366-8953 View (850) 366-8953
Photo of Regan Hager, MA, DWCF, LMHC, Counselor
Regan Hager
Counselor, MA, DWCF, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32503
I am driven by the desire to help individuals heal their wounds, develop a new relationship with their thoughts and transform their lives. I have been privileged to work with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds, striving to consistently provide compassionate, non-judgmental care. You are not alone in your challenges and you don't have to carry your burden by yourself. You deserve all the good that life has to offer, and you don't have to achieve it alone. I would love to assist you in turning off your inner autopilot and help you to reclaim your life.
I am driven by the desire to help individuals heal their wounds, develop a new relationship with their thoughts and transform their lives. I have been privileged to work with clients from a wide variety of backgrounds, striving to consistently provide compassionate, non-judgmental care. You are not alone in your challenges and you don't have to carry your burden by yourself. You deserve all the good that life has to offer, and you don't have to achieve it alone. I would love to assist you in turning off your inner autopilot and help you to reclaim your life.
(850) 780-0271 View (850) 780-0271
Photo of Melissa D. Garner, LMHC, QS, RYT, Counselor
Melissa D. Garner
Counselor, LMHC, QS, RYT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Cantonment, FL 32533  (Online Only)
Welcome! My passion is to support women who are affected by anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma & burn-out. My typical clients include women in caregiving roles who are eager to find work/life balance; women recovering from trauma or abusive relationships; and ladies looking to slow down, refocus, and rebuild their sense of self in a safe and supportive space. I'm here to listen, hold space, and help you navigate emotions and thoughts, cope with life stressors, prioritize self care, problem-solve, and cultivate healthy relationships, including your relationship with your Self. Please apply at www.self-haven.com/private-session
Welcome! My passion is to support women who are affected by anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma & burn-out. My typical clients include women in caregiving roles who are eager to find work/life balance; women recovering from trauma or abusive relationships; and ladies looking to slow down, refocus, and rebuild their sense of self in a safe and supportive space. I'm here to listen, hold space, and help you navigate emotions and thoughts, cope with life stressors, prioritize self care, problem-solve, and cultivate healthy relationships, including your relationship with your Self. Please apply at www.self-haven.com/private-session
(850) 208-3543 View (850) 208-3543
Photo of Abi Barnett, MS
Abi Barnett
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32502  (Online Only)
Mental health counseling for individuals and couples, with a focus on infertility and relationships. With a deep understanding of the challenges surrounding infertility, I offer specialized support for individuals and couples navigating this journey. I also work with couples and families in restoring and strengthening relationships, aiding you in managing conflicts and rediscovering meaningful connections. Additionally, I work closely with teenagers, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and behavioral challenges.
Mental health counseling for individuals and couples, with a focus on infertility and relationships. With a deep understanding of the challenges surrounding infertility, I offer specialized support for individuals and couples navigating this journey. I also work with couples and families in restoring and strengthening relationships, aiding you in managing conflicts and rediscovering meaningful connections. Additionally, I work closely with teenagers, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and behavioral challenges.
(850) 821-3447 View (850) 821-3447
Photo of Valerie S Carr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie S Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32514
Valerie S. Carr, LCSW is a seasoned clinician with more than 35 years of experience in the field of human services. Valerie brings her vast wealth of experience combined with empathy, compassion, and a personalized, strength-based approach to the treatment partnership.
Valerie S. Carr, LCSW is a seasoned clinician with more than 35 years of experience in the field of human services. Valerie brings her vast wealth of experience combined with empathy, compassion, and a personalized, strength-based approach to the treatment partnership.
(850) 788-8731 View (850) 788-8731
Photo of Dorothy Brown - M&A Community Outreach Center, Inc. , LMHC, CMHP, MCAP, Counselor
M&A Community Outreach Center, Inc.
Counselor, LMHC, CMHP, MCAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32505
Hello! I'm excited you have found my page. I love working with children, teens, adults, and elderly in effort to find their passion in life. I enjoy helping them remove barriers that are keeping them from being their most awesome or live their dream. I have been practicing over 15 years.
Hello! I'm excited you have found my page. I love working with children, teens, adults, and elderly in effort to find their passion in life. I enjoy helping them remove barriers that are keeping them from being their most awesome or live their dream. I have been practicing over 15 years.
(850) 220-0020 View (850) 220-0020
Photo of Katie Remis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Remis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32503
I am glad you're here! I truly believe you are the greatest project you will ever work on. My mission is to guide you while you work on your therapeutic goals by helping you strengthen your emotional well being, gain insight and understanding around your triggers and reactions, and improve your interpersonal relationships. Most of my experience is working with individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, family conflict, trauma, and self esteem.
I am glad you're here! I truly believe you are the greatest project you will ever work on. My mission is to guide you while you work on your therapeutic goals by helping you strengthen your emotional well being, gain insight and understanding around your triggers and reactions, and improve your interpersonal relationships. Most of my experience is working with individuals who have struggled with anxiety, depression, family conflict, trauma, and self esteem.
(850) 750-9465 View (850) 750-9465
Photo of Michelle Desrochers - Tree of Life Counseling, LLC
Tree of Life Counseling, LLC
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32504
Tree of Life Counseling is a professional and collaborative counseling service that is passionate about facilitating growth in people and helping them experience the fullness of life. We want each person to experience the highest quality of affordable counseling, support services and resources. We utilize evidence-based psychotherapy approaches and sound psychological theory that promotes emotional health, improves quality of life, supports healthy goals & growth, and reconcile relationships. We offer services to all people regardless of age, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, national origin, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic status. We respect the dignity and worth of all people, and your rights to privacy. Although our therapists have a Christian Foundation and Faith is the cornerstone of who we are, we highly respect your own beliefs. We will work with you from your own perspective because no client needs to hold to our beliefs to receive the best professional service we can provide.
Tree of Life Counseling is a professional and collaborative counseling service that is passionate about facilitating growth in people and helping them experience the fullness of life. We want each person to experience the highest quality of affordable counseling, support services and resources. We utilize evidence-based psychotherapy approaches and sound psychological theory that promotes emotional health, improves quality of life, supports healthy goals & growth, and reconcile relationships. We offer services to all people regardless of age, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, national origin, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic status. We respect the dignity and worth of all people, and your rights to privacy. Although our therapists have a Christian Foundation and Faith is the cornerstone of who we are, we highly respect your own beliefs. We will work with you from your own perspective because no client needs to hold to our beliefs to receive the best professional service we can provide.
(850) 605-2318 View (850) 605-2318
Photo of Brittany Paquette, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Brittany Paquette
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32503
Tired of behavior that gets in the way of your goals? Discouraged that you take one step forward and two steps back? Imagine feeling extremely good about yourself once you’ve aligned your behavior with what you actually want in life. If you find yourself setting goals, and struggling to stick with them, you have come to the right place. Do you want to increase positive behaviors (exercise, healthy eating, self care) or decrease negative behaviors (substance use, eating disorders, self harm)? Are mental health issues standing between you and the life you want? Do you need support for the everyday problems that keep adding up?
Tired of behavior that gets in the way of your goals? Discouraged that you take one step forward and two steps back? Imagine feeling extremely good about yourself once you’ve aligned your behavior with what you actually want in life. If you find yourself setting goals, and struggling to stick with them, you have come to the right place. Do you want to increase positive behaviors (exercise, healthy eating, self care) or decrease negative behaviors (substance use, eating disorders, self harm)? Are mental health issues standing between you and the life you want? Do you need support for the everyday problems that keep adding up?
(850) 304-0342 View (850) 304-0342
Photo of Tony L Galloway, MA, LPC, TF-CBT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tony L Galloway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, TF-CBT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32514  (Online Only)
I'm here to assist my clients to achieve goals and adapt coping skills by using client-focused tools which are evidence-based. I operate in the spirit of excellence and professionalism with everyone regardless of age, gender, race, social-economic status, or sexual identity. I will create a wellness plan specific to each client's individual needs.
I'm here to assist my clients to achieve goals and adapt coping skills by using client-focused tools which are evidence-based. I operate in the spirit of excellence and professionalism with everyone regardless of age, gender, race, social-economic status, or sexual identity. I will create a wellness plan specific to each client's individual needs.
(573) 646-8594 View (573) 646-8594
Photo of Janice T Griffin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice T Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32501  (Online Only)
I am an experienced therapist in Pensacola for over 30 years. I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from The University of West Florida and my Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from the Florida State University. I have worked in a wide variety of clinical settings.
I am an experienced therapist in Pensacola for over 30 years. I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from The University of West Florida and my Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from the Florida State University. I have worked in a wide variety of clinical settings.
(850) 920-2359 View (850) 920-2359
Carla von Haven
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32504  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida. I have been practicing for 35 years with the philosophy that therapy not only offers sanctuary to face mental health issues, but it fosters resilience and emotional well-being too. I help teenagers and adults learn not only to survive, but to thrive in this often hectic world.
Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida. I have been practicing for 35 years with the philosophy that therapy not only offers sanctuary to face mental health issues, but it fosters resilience and emotional well-being too. I help teenagers and adults learn not only to survive, but to thrive in this often hectic world.
(850) 988-7639 View (850) 988-7639
Photo of Annmarie T Whithed, PsyD, Psychologist
Annmarie T Whithed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32507  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dr. AnnMarie Whithed. Are you finding it more difficult to manage the challenges the past couple of years has brought? Are you coping with the loss of a job or the illness of a loved one, dealing with a divorce or breakup of an important relationship, or wrestling with painful past experiences? I can help. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 17 years experience helping people find their inner strength and overcome challenges. I provide individual psychotherapy for adults age 25 and older, focusing on creating a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences at your pace.
Hi, I'm Dr. AnnMarie Whithed. Are you finding it more difficult to manage the challenges the past couple of years has brought? Are you coping with the loss of a job or the illness of a loved one, dealing with a divorce or breakup of an important relationship, or wrestling with painful past experiences? I can help. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 17 years experience helping people find their inner strength and overcome challenges. I provide individual psychotherapy for adults age 25 and older, focusing on creating a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences at your pace.
(850) 616-2888 View (850) 616-2888
Photo of Latonia Ambush, MS, LMHC
Latonia Ambush
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32526  (Online Only)
Do you want to understand yourself better and learn why certain patterns keep repeating within your life? Are you tired of experiencing setbacks from previous trauma or issues experienced within your childhood? Do you want a clinician that is down to earth and has both lived and professional experience with the ability to offer practical tools that you can use within your daily life? I would love to support you in meeting your therapy goals. Trauma disconnects us from ourselves, our loved ones, and the community. I am culturally sensitive and willing to work with those from diverse backgrounds.
Do you want to understand yourself better and learn why certain patterns keep repeating within your life? Are you tired of experiencing setbacks from previous trauma or issues experienced within your childhood? Do you want a clinician that is down to earth and has both lived and professional experience with the ability to offer practical tools that you can use within your daily life? I would love to support you in meeting your therapy goals. Trauma disconnects us from ourselves, our loved ones, and the community. I am culturally sensitive and willing to work with those from diverse backgrounds.
(850) 706-7447 View (850) 706-7447
Photo of Penelope Praylow-Kyles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penelope Praylow-Kyles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32507
Hi there! Night & weekend appointments available. Discover new solutions to life's challenges! Life is a Journey that we are tasked with navigating every single day we live. I provide a non-judgmental, supportive, and transparent environment, so together, we can reflect on the core causes of your anxiety, traumas, depression, fears, relationship challenges, and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Hi there! Night & weekend appointments available. Discover new solutions to life's challenges! Life is a Journey that we are tasked with navigating every single day we live. I provide a non-judgmental, supportive, and transparent environment, so together, we can reflect on the core causes of your anxiety, traumas, depression, fears, relationship challenges, and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
(850) 220-1643 View (850) 220-1643
Photo of Jennifer Reed, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32514
Hi there. I'm Jenni, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes in giving people a safe place to be vulnerable and encouraging them to identify and express their needs. I believe that you are the expert. My main focus is on improving your self-confidence, insight, and tools to feel confident and prepared to navigate any life circumstance you may be presented with. I take a person-centered approach and offer unconditional positive regard to everyone I work with. I am passionate about helping others and am dedicated to my work. I truly care about people and want others to be happy and successful in life.
Hi there. I'm Jenni, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes in giving people a safe place to be vulnerable and encouraging them to identify and express their needs. I believe that you are the expert. My main focus is on improving your self-confidence, insight, and tools to feel confident and prepared to navigate any life circumstance you may be presented with. I take a person-centered approach and offer unconditional positive regard to everyone I work with. I am passionate about helping others and am dedicated to my work. I truly care about people and want others to be happy and successful in life.
(786) 983-6716 View (786) 983-6716
Photo of Carissa Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carissa Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pensacola, FL 32504  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to assisting you on your path towards healing and growth. I understand that life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, and seeking support is a powerful step towards positive change. With a heart full of compassion and a deep empathy for the human experience, I am here to provide you with a safe and nurturing space where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I believe that every person's story is unique, and I am genuinely honored to be a part of your journey.
Hello and welcome! I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) dedicated to assisting you on your path towards healing and growth. I understand that life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, and seeking support is a powerful step towards positive change. With a heart full of compassion and a deep empathy for the human experience, I am here to provide you with a safe and nurturing space where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I believe that every person's story is unique, and I am genuinely honored to be a part of your journey.
(850) 789-6307 View (850) 789-6307
Photo of Amber Fernbach, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Fernbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32526
My name is Amber Fernbach. I am a LCSW and the creator of Surviving and Thriving Therapy. I have been a social worker for 6 years. I’ve worked in child welfare, school systems, victim’s of crime therapist, and now I have created my private practice. Trauma work, communication, boundaries, and ADHD are my expertise. My ideal client would have intrinsic motivation or be open to building their motivation and reaching other self-created goals with my assistance. I have worked with children, teens, young adults, and middle age individuals.
My name is Amber Fernbach. I am a LCSW and the creator of Surviving and Thriving Therapy. I have been a social worker for 6 years. I’ve worked in child welfare, school systems, victim’s of crime therapist, and now I have created my private practice. Trauma work, communication, boundaries, and ADHD are my expertise. My ideal client would have intrinsic motivation or be open to building their motivation and reaching other self-created goals with my assistance. I have worked with children, teens, young adults, and middle age individuals.
(850) 466-6515 View (850) 466-6515
Photo of Jessica Lasure, MSW, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Lasure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32502  (Online Only)
It is our most challenging seasons that usher in the deepest healing. When life gets hard it is easy to feel stuck and challenging to feel hopeful. I am here to guide you along your journey of healing. I provide holistic, individualized therapy. My therapy practice is both heart and research guided. All good therapy starts with trust and safety. From there we can determine the best way for you to achieve your personal goals. I offer EMDR therapy, mindfulness base CBT, and a variety of techniques through Telehealth.
It is our most challenging seasons that usher in the deepest healing. When life gets hard it is easy to feel stuck and challenging to feel hopeful. I am here to guide you along your journey of healing. I provide holistic, individualized therapy. My therapy practice is both heart and research guided. All good therapy starts with trust and safety. From there we can determine the best way for you to achieve your personal goals. I offer EMDR therapy, mindfulness base CBT, and a variety of techniques through Telehealth.
(850) 760-0252 View (850) 760-0252

See more therapy options for Escambia County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Escambia County, FL

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Escambia County, FL who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
68% Stress
67% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
81% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Escambia County, FL see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Escambia County?

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.