Therapists in Maryville, TN

Photo of Andy Schriver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Schriver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I am sorry but I am not currently taking new client appointments. I encourage you to take a moment to think about what you are looking for and what you need. Maybe you know what needs to change or have no idea. My hope would be to help you figure that out. That might mean I work with you, your family or children.
I am sorry but I am not currently taking new client appointments. I encourage you to take a moment to think about what you are looking for and what you need. Maybe you know what needs to change or have no idea. My hope would be to help you figure that out. That might mean I work with you, your family or children.
(865) 302-3204 View (865) 302-3204
Photo of Lauren Shockley, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Shockley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
When you face challenges in your life, it's helpful to have support along the way. My role as a therapist is to work alongside you as a guide, not tell you what to do. Therapy sessions are a collaborative process, and they are aimed at empowering you to better understand yourself and to develop the coping skills necessary to live a more fulfilling life. Together, we will focus on your unique needs and explore meaningful changes you would like to see in your life so that you can be your most authentic self, and live a life of meaning and purpose.
When you face challenges in your life, it's helpful to have support along the way. My role as a therapist is to work alongside you as a guide, not tell you what to do. Therapy sessions are a collaborative process, and they are aimed at empowering you to better understand yourself and to develop the coping skills necessary to live a more fulfilling life. Together, we will focus on your unique needs and explore meaningful changes you would like to see in your life so that you can be your most authentic self, and live a life of meaning and purpose.
(865) 419-7912 View (865) 419-7912
Photo of Patricia L Wharton - Patricia Wharton, LADAC2, LADACII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Patricia Wharton, LADAC2
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADACII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
If you need a Substance Abuse Disorder Assessment or Alcohol & Drug Education/Counseling as required by the court or your work place, I can help with that. If you are a parent who is fearful about your child's choices, I am here to help. In any of these situations, think of me as a professional who has been in the field for 18 years. I am equipped to help reduce your suffering just by offering you understanding, compassion, knowledge and guidance.
If you need a Substance Abuse Disorder Assessment or Alcohol & Drug Education/Counseling as required by the court or your work place, I can help with that. If you are a parent who is fearful about your child's choices, I am here to help. In any of these situations, think of me as a professional who has been in the field for 18 years. I am equipped to help reduce your suffering just by offering you understanding, compassion, knowledge and guidance.
(865) 999-0243 View (865) 999-0243
Photo of Jacob Parsons-Wells, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacob Parsons-Wells
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37804
Not accepting new clients
The people I work best with appreciate my love of neuroscience and how brains work, along with my sense of humor and lightheartedness. Often, we feel like something is wrong with us but when we explore our experiences, personality, and needs, what we are experiencing begins to make more sense. Once it makes more sense to us, it’s easier to communicate these things to our loved ones. For many people, this means they can leave behind the weight of what they experienced and transform their suffering into connection.
The people I work best with appreciate my love of neuroscience and how brains work, along with my sense of humor and lightheartedness. Often, we feel like something is wrong with us but when we explore our experiences, personality, and needs, what we are experiencing begins to make more sense. Once it makes more sense to us, it’s easier to communicate these things to our loved ones. For many people, this means they can leave behind the weight of what they experienced and transform their suffering into connection.
(865) 351-3719 View (865) 351-3719
Photo of Vickie Starkey, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vickie Starkey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
FREE consult on WEBSITE. Accepting Private Pay. Do you feel like you are in a black fog you just can't shake it? You're exhausted from taking care of everybody else and wonder when somebody is going to take care of you. Maybe it's not that at all; maybe you lost someone, and you feel like you can't go on. Sometimes, the unthinkable happened, the world stopped. You're in a dark place with no answers and feel like there is no hope. Your nerves are shot, you can't eat or sleep. You can't think, can't get anything done, don't want to die. You also don't know how you can face tomorrow and live because the pain just never seems to end.
FREE consult on WEBSITE. Accepting Private Pay. Do you feel like you are in a black fog you just can't shake it? You're exhausted from taking care of everybody else and wonder when somebody is going to take care of you. Maybe it's not that at all; maybe you lost someone, and you feel like you can't go on. Sometimes, the unthinkable happened, the world stopped. You're in a dark place with no answers and feel like there is no hope. Your nerves are shot, you can't eat or sleep. You can't think, can't get anything done, don't want to die. You also don't know how you can face tomorrow and live because the pain just never seems to end.
View
Photo of Katrise Thompson, MEd, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katrise Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more empowered you? Breaking the stigma of mental health begins with choosing to invest in yourself. Trusting someone with your story can feel daunting, but vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. I’m passionate about helping you create a safe, supportive space where you can be your authentic self. Every person has a unique story, and I want to help you understand yours, bringing clarity and empower you to thrive. With experience in domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders, I’m ready to support you on your journey to healing and growth.
Ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more empowered you? Breaking the stigma of mental health begins with choosing to invest in yourself. Trusting someone with your story can feel daunting, but vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. I’m passionate about helping you create a safe, supportive space where you can be your authentic self. Every person has a unique story, and I want to help you understand yours, bringing clarity and empower you to thrive. With experience in domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders, I’m ready to support you on your journey to healing and growth.
(865) 217-2546 View (865) 217-2546
Photo of Katie Peterson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804  (Online Only)
Adjusting to life changes can be hard to do on your own. Whether it is work stress, relationship challenges, or finding your new normal after trauma, I am here to help. Working with trauma survivors and the families of survivors is a passion of mine. Stress and trauma can have a debilitating effect on a person's physical and mental well being, causing them to feel unable to cultivate the lifestyle they wish to achieve. I can help give you the tools needed to bring mental stability into your day to day life.
Adjusting to life changes can be hard to do on your own. Whether it is work stress, relationship challenges, or finding your new normal after trauma, I am here to help. Working with trauma survivors and the families of survivors is a passion of mine. Stress and trauma can have a debilitating effect on a person's physical and mental well being, causing them to feel unable to cultivate the lifestyle they wish to achieve. I can help give you the tools needed to bring mental stability into your day to day life.
(865) 217-0510 View (865) 217-0510
Photo of Megan MacNamara, PhD, Psychologist
Megan MacNamara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
I help empower women to love themselves. You may be a struggling mom, creative, business owner, empath, or trauma survivor that is ready to get past survive and start to thrive. My speciality is trauma recovery. My experience as an EMDR therapist & DBT psychologist helps you to deal with anxiety and depression. My clients say they feel immediate relief, a deep connection, & I open up worlds they never thought was possible. New virtual women's empowerment group and mindset membership!
I help empower women to love themselves. You may be a struggling mom, creative, business owner, empath, or trauma survivor that is ready to get past survive and start to thrive. My speciality is trauma recovery. My experience as an EMDR therapist & DBT psychologist helps you to deal with anxiety and depression. My clients say they feel immediate relief, a deep connection, & I open up worlds they never thought was possible. New virtual women's empowerment group and mindset membership!
(865) 383-1322 View (865) 383-1322
Photo of Shannon Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
We are a Queer-owned, LGBTQ+, QBIPOC, body positive, kink positive, ENM/Poly safe & affirming practice. Shannon has almost 20 years experience in trauma & LGBTQ+ mental health for all ages, family dynamics, & religious structures, is a Certified Emergency Responder & Public Safety Clinician for Queer LEOs, EMS, 911 Operators, Fire Fighters & Vets. Eden is especially focused on addressing trauma, queer mental health for teens, adults & families, and is kink positive. Laila specializes in working with women, mothers & postpartum issues.
We are a Queer-owned, LGBTQ+, QBIPOC, body positive, kink positive, ENM/Poly safe & affirming practice. Shannon has almost 20 years experience in trauma & LGBTQ+ mental health for all ages, family dynamics, & religious structures, is a Certified Emergency Responder & Public Safety Clinician for Queer LEOs, EMS, 911 Operators, Fire Fighters & Vets. Eden is especially focused on addressing trauma, queer mental health for teens, adults & families, and is kink positive. Laila specializes in working with women, mothers & postpartum issues.
(865) 590-8003 View (865) 590-8003
Photo of Megan Marcus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Marcus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
Waitlist for new clients
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step- Lau Tuzla. Taking that first step can be scary and intimidating. I’m glad you are bravely exploring that first step. I have been in the social work field for over 20 years. My work history includes providing rehabilitation services for incarcerated individuals, skilled nursing facilities, and inpatient and outpatient treatment for seniors and adults in a hospital setting. I work with ages 18 and up and my specialties include all issues related to seniors, caregivers, grief, depression, anxiety, and postpartum support.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step- Lau Tuzla. Taking that first step can be scary and intimidating. I’m glad you are bravely exploring that first step. I have been in the social work field for over 20 years. My work history includes providing rehabilitation services for incarcerated individuals, skilled nursing facilities, and inpatient and outpatient treatment for seniors and adults in a hospital setting. I work with ages 18 and up and my specialties include all issues related to seniors, caregivers, grief, depression, anxiety, and postpartum support.
(865) 205-6912 View (865) 205-6912
Photo of Shay L Groenewold, PhD, Psychologist
Shay L Groenewold
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801  (Online Only)
Making the decision to seek therapy is not an easy one, and choosing the right therapist to meet your needs can be even more daunting! As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have had the great fortune of supporting individuals from all walks of life who are working to make peace with their past, to connect with their present, and to build hope about their future. I strive to provide tailored support for my clients as they address issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, past trauma, communication issues, anger management, symptoms of serious mental illness, adjustment and decision-making issues, and relationship problems.
Making the decision to seek therapy is not an easy one, and choosing the right therapist to meet your needs can be even more daunting! As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have had the great fortune of supporting individuals from all walks of life who are working to make peace with their past, to connect with their present, and to build hope about their future. I strive to provide tailored support for my clients as they address issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, past trauma, communication issues, anger management, symptoms of serious mental illness, adjustment and decision-making issues, and relationship problems.
(865) 269-6834 View (865) 269-6834
Photo of Meghan O'Nyon, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan O'Nyon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
Not accepting new clients
You look around and ask yourself “Is this really my life right now?” Some days are okay, some are uncomfortable, and others are intolerable. In the tough moments, the things you've tried before don't seem to work. Treading water was fine for a while, but you’re ready to swim. Maybe someone you cared about died. Maybe that inner critic voice is louder or more persistent than it has been before. Maybe your child’s thoughts and feelings are too big for them to handle.
You look around and ask yourself “Is this really my life right now?” Some days are okay, some are uncomfortable, and others are intolerable. In the tough moments, the things you've tried before don't seem to work. Treading water was fine for a while, but you’re ready to swim. Maybe someone you cared about died. Maybe that inner critic voice is louder or more persistent than it has been before. Maybe your child’s thoughts and feelings are too big for them to handle.
(865) 344-2481 View (865) 344-2481
Photo of Kim M Donovan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim M Donovan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
For all the parents out there that start their day worrying about their child's future, concerned they might be missing something beyond "defiance" or "distractibility" when it's a struggle just to get them out the door for school; and for all the teens who have endured the consequences of virtual learning only to now deal with new insecurities around grade pressure or social acceptances, there is a place for you!
For all the parents out there that start their day worrying about their child's future, concerned they might be missing something beyond "defiance" or "distractibility" when it's a struggle just to get them out the door for school; and for all the teens who have endured the consequences of virtual learning only to now deal with new insecurities around grade pressure or social acceptances, there is a place for you!
(779) 243-5389 View (779) 243-5389
Photo of Taylor Booth, LMSW, RYT
Taylor Booth
LMSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
Now accepting new clients! I am passionate about working with clients of all ages and walks of life. Whether you're a young person navigating the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood or an individual at a later stage of life I am here to support you on your journey. Creating a safe and welcoming environment is at the heart of my practice. I want each person who walks through my door to feel heard, understood, and supported, regardless of their age or life circumstances. Each stage of life brings its own unique experiences and struggles, and my goal is to help you navigate through them with grace and resilience.
Now accepting new clients! I am passionate about working with clients of all ages and walks of life. Whether you're a young person navigating the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood or an individual at a later stage of life I am here to support you on your journey. Creating a safe and welcoming environment is at the heart of my practice. I want each person who walks through my door to feel heard, understood, and supported, regardless of their age or life circumstances. Each stage of life brings its own unique experiences and struggles, and my goal is to help you navigate through them with grace and resilience.
(865) 737-1565 View (865) 737-1565
Photo of Tina Magnus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tina Magnus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
Waitlist for new clients
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I am not currently accepting couples or families at this time. Life can be challenging for all of us. I am here to help and support you through your unique individual challenges that you are currently experiencing. In addition to processing your experiences in therapy sessions, I will also help teach you valuable tools. If applicable to you we can also address emotional regulation so that you are able to handle your current and future challenges in a more healthy manner.
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I am not currently accepting couples or families at this time. Life can be challenging for all of us. I am here to help and support you through your unique individual challenges that you are currently experiencing. In addition to processing your experiences in therapy sessions, I will also help teach you valuable tools. If applicable to you we can also address emotional regulation so that you are able to handle your current and future challenges in a more healthy manner.
(865) 276-8832 View (865) 276-8832
Photo of Kendra Hart, MHSP, LADAC 2, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendra Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP, LADAC 2
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37804
Life has brought you here and I believe it is for a reason. Are you ready to start your journey towards healing? I think you are! You have been suffering long enough. Whether you have been tormented by your anxiety, oppressed by your depression, lost in your addiction or felt unsafe from your trauma, I am here to help. Is anger or other uncomfortable emotions controlling your life? Maybe it's the deep pain from the sadness of losing someone you love? Do you want help to stop those racing thoughts? Or maybe you just feel stuck and unmotivated? You are certainly not alone and there are ways to help overcome your struggles.
Life has brought you here and I believe it is for a reason. Are you ready to start your journey towards healing? I think you are! You have been suffering long enough. Whether you have been tormented by your anxiety, oppressed by your depression, lost in your addiction or felt unsafe from your trauma, I am here to help. Is anger or other uncomfortable emotions controlling your life? Maybe it's the deep pain from the sadness of losing someone you love? Do you want help to stop those racing thoughts? Or maybe you just feel stuck and unmotivated? You are certainly not alone and there are ways to help overcome your struggles.
(865) 217-2508 View (865) 217-2508
Photo of Mekenzie Russell, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mekenzie Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
As a therapist, I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their healing journey. Ultimately, I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing grief or other life transitions that are having trouble navigating new terrain. I also work with those who may be experiencing anxiety and depression and need assistance in creating coping skills. Additionally, I love to help men and women explore their own attachment style and work through early trauma.
As a therapist, I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their healing journey. Ultimately, I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing grief or other life transitions that are having trouble navigating new terrain. I also work with those who may be experiencing anxiety and depression and need assistance in creating coping skills. Additionally, I love to help men and women explore their own attachment style and work through early trauma.
(865) 401-6453 View (865) 401-6453
Photo of Ashley Marie Ottinger, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Marie Ottinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
My therapeutic work is focused primarily on supporting children and teens ages 5-18. I utilize a range of evidence-based interventions including CBT and play therapy techniques to meet the needs of clients and operate in a strengths-based framework. I encourage clients and parents to play an active role in decision-making and treatment planning. My goal is to be a partner for growth with each individual.
My therapeutic work is focused primarily on supporting children and teens ages 5-18. I utilize a range of evidence-based interventions including CBT and play therapy techniques to meet the needs of clients and operate in a strengths-based framework. I encourage clients and parents to play an active role in decision-making and treatment planning. My goal is to be a partner for growth with each individual.
(865) 234-9332 View (865) 234-9332
Photo of Stacia Chaplin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacia Chaplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Not accepting new clients
With years of experience serving both individuals and family systems, I have addressed a vast array of symptoms related to mental health concerns. Some of these have consisted of anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, substance abuse, trauma, and family conflict. Laurell K. Hamilton states "There are wounds that never show on the body that are deeper and more hurtful than anything that bleeds". These wounds can develop from both our environmental influences or even within our own minds. Sometimes these wounds can be ignored for weeks, months, years, and even between generations.
With years of experience serving both individuals and family systems, I have addressed a vast array of symptoms related to mental health concerns. Some of these have consisted of anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, substance abuse, trauma, and family conflict. Laurell K. Hamilton states "There are wounds that never show on the body that are deeper and more hurtful than anything that bleeds". These wounds can develop from both our environmental influences or even within our own minds. Sometimes these wounds can be ignored for weeks, months, years, and even between generations.
(865) 213-9492 View (865) 213-9492
Photo of Heather Nicole Gerry, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Heather Nicole Gerry
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
Do you, your child or teen feel overly stressed, anxious, irritable, depressed, lonely, scared, misunderstood, unheard, guilty, or ashamed? Maybe you or your child are struggling with sleep, socializing, concentration, going to work or school, or painful memories coming up into mind or heart? Is it hard to connect or trust others? Does every day seem like a fight just to achieve everyday tasks? Now is the time to stand up and break the chains of suffering. You have the capability to feel relief, peace, joy, and stability with evidenced-based treatment from a therapist that is dedicated to walk you from suffering into freedom.
Do you, your child or teen feel overly stressed, anxious, irritable, depressed, lonely, scared, misunderstood, unheard, guilty, or ashamed? Maybe you or your child are struggling with sleep, socializing, concentration, going to work or school, or painful memories coming up into mind or heart? Is it hard to connect or trust others? Does every day seem like a fight just to achieve everyday tasks? Now is the time to stand up and break the chains of suffering. You have the capability to feel relief, peace, joy, and stability with evidenced-based treatment from a therapist that is dedicated to walk you from suffering into freedom.
(865) 346-5246 View (865) 346-5246
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Maryville, TN

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Maryville, TN who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
76% Stress
75% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
68% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
70% Cigna and Evernorth
70% Optum

How Therapists in Maryville, TN see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Maryville?

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.