Therapists in Benton, IL
![Photo of Patricia Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96d2c0b6-fd1a-4bcb-a517-43f7686a1c5f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have noticed that most clients want to understand what they are experiencing. They want to find relief from their symptoms and feel they have some control over their lives. With support and education, I have noticed clients are more receptive to treatment and recovery.
I have noticed that most clients want to understand what they are experiencing. They want to find relief from their symptoms and feel they have some control over their lives. With support and education, I have noticed clients are more receptive to treatment and recovery.
![Photo of Chris Burgess, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95428b8f-2bd9-4102-aa94-71406fd8aabe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courage isn’t having the strength to go on - it is going on when you don’t feel like you have the strength. You need an immense amount of courage to stay the course and struggle even when you are almost ready to give up on life. I am here to listen, and walk beside you even when it feels like everything and maybe everyone is against you.
Courage isn’t having the strength to go on - it is going on when you don’t feel like you have the strength. You need an immense amount of courage to stay the course and struggle even when you are almost ready to give up on life. I am here to listen, and walk beside you even when it feels like everything and maybe everyone is against you.
![Photo of Alex Stevens, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eeebd1a2-fa7d-47c0-ab75-2b5cc52dd0c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
No two people are alike and that's the same way I treat therapy. Your therapy is just that..yours. I take a multidisciplinary and individualized approach to offer support that is genuine and non-judgmental. I offer a comfortable atmosphere that allows for genuine growth that creates a positive change.
No two people are alike and that's the same way I treat therapy. Your therapy is just that..yours. I take a multidisciplinary and individualized approach to offer support that is genuine and non-judgmental. I offer a comfortable atmosphere that allows for genuine growth that creates a positive change.
![Photo of Amy Schuring, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb62e57b-1599-4e76-996c-650a0548f126/1/320x400.png)
I am very passionate about helping people find freedom from the things that have caused hurt and pain in their lives. I love working with my clients collaboratively on their journey to living the life they desire. Together we will learn what is getting in the way of living a life of more peace and joy. I will provide a safe, supportive and validating environment for people to share those things that are deep down inside of them. We all have a purpose and a destiny. I am excited to help you find yours!
I am very passionate about helping people find freedom from the things that have caused hurt and pain in their lives. I love working with my clients collaboratively on their journey to living the life they desire. Together we will learn what is getting in the way of living a life of more peace and joy. I will provide a safe, supportive and validating environment for people to share those things that are deep down inside of them. We all have a purpose and a destiny. I am excited to help you find yours!
![Photo of Evonne Stephenson, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/534c4ae5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
![Photo of Zachary Stephenson, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7043b5e7-a2e5-405e-a485-ee32b50aca2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
You know something is wrong, but you are not sure what it is, why it happened, or how to fix it. You think you probably need help, but it's hard to know where to start. You worry about being overmedicated or wasting your time. You want to figure out, once and for all, what is going on and how to take care of it. Does this sound familiar?
You know something is wrong, but you are not sure what it is, why it happened, or how to fix it. You think you probably need help, but it's hard to know where to start. You worry about being overmedicated or wasting your time. You want to figure out, once and for all, what is going on and how to take care of it. Does this sound familiar?
![Photo of Kassandra Leber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cac68740-2ad3-444b-9a80-f565d486db6c/1/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Kassandra Leber, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Families, and Minors. I have experience treating various conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, Phobias, PTSD, trauma, Family/Interpersonal Issues, Parenting Related Stress, Gender Dysmorphia, intimacy concerns, and more. I work with various theoretical approaches, including CBT, EMDR, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and strength-based. I believe I treat each individual to create lasting change in their life.
Hello! My name is Kassandra Leber, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Families, and Minors. I have experience treating various conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, Phobias, PTSD, trauma, Family/Interpersonal Issues, Parenting Related Stress, Gender Dysmorphia, intimacy concerns, and more. I work with various theoretical approaches, including CBT, EMDR, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and strength-based. I believe I treat each individual to create lasting change in their life.
![Photo of Alaina Brown, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/449ecff4-63e3-4424-8ec1-633a6c74ed67/1/320x400.jpeg)
‘A speaker raises a glass of water and asks the audience, “How heavy do you think this glass of water is?” His answer: “It depends on how long you hold it. It is the exact same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, we will not be able to carry on, the burden becoming increasingly heavier.”’ Occasionally, we have to set our burdens down so that we are able to recharge and prepare ourselves to continue moving forward. I am deeply committed to providing pathways to support and to create the best environment possible for clients.
‘A speaker raises a glass of water and asks the audience, “How heavy do you think this glass of water is?” His answer: “It depends on how long you hold it. It is the exact same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, we will not be able to carry on, the burden becoming increasingly heavier.”’ Occasionally, we have to set our burdens down so that we are able to recharge and prepare ourselves to continue moving forward. I am deeply committed to providing pathways to support and to create the best environment possible for clients.
![Photo of Scott Michael Murray, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c2f9e9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Scott Murray, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in private practice as a psychotherapist. I am a graduate of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL, where I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work and soon after attained my Illinois clinical social work licensure. I have 20+ years experience working in outpatient clinics, in-patient psychiatric treatment facilities, academic institutions, and forensic facilities where I provided assessment and therapy to individuals, groups, couples, and families.
Hello! My name is Scott Murray, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in private practice as a psychotherapist. I am a graduate of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL, where I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work and soon after attained my Illinois clinical social work licensure. I have 20+ years experience working in outpatient clinics, in-patient psychiatric treatment facilities, academic institutions, and forensic facilities where I provided assessment and therapy to individuals, groups, couples, and families.
![Photo of Amber Phelps Schweda - Aspire Integrated Health PLLC, MS, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8b9916b-a6f5-4fd1-ab72-91b62a83a04c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aspire Integrated Health PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Benton, IL 62812
Waitlist for new clients
We currently have a waitlist. Do you want to conquer your biggest challenges, achieve your wellness goals, and develop effective strategies to improve the way you manage your emotions and your relationships? Improving your mental health means that you will have a happier and more fulfilling life. It means that you will have better overall health and a more positive outlook on life. Our professional counselors can help you improve your life in a number of ways including developing new skills, processing your emotions in a safe and nonjudgmental setting with a trained professional, as well as setting and achieving your personal goals.
We currently have a waitlist. Do you want to conquer your biggest challenges, achieve your wellness goals, and develop effective strategies to improve the way you manage your emotions and your relationships? Improving your mental health means that you will have a happier and more fulfilling life. It means that you will have better overall health and a more positive outlook on life. Our professional counselors can help you improve your life in a number of ways including developing new skills, processing your emotions in a safe and nonjudgmental setting with a trained professional, as well as setting and achieving your personal goals.
![Photo of Michelle Venegoni-Vigil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b32b5dea-cd73-4dab-96b9-1e11447faf0c/1/320x400.png)
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
![Photo of Mark Schloemann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d324a49-15c7-46c3-a804-5aca112cb5ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our significant relationships and life history have shaped our individual beliefs and behaviors. Often times those beliefs and behaviors prove to be limiting and may keep us stuck. At times, we find ourselves anxious or depressed, stressed in our relationships and out of balance. By increasing awareness and healthy living skills, counseling offers an opportunity to change your circumstances and/or your response to them.
Our significant relationships and life history have shaped our individual beliefs and behaviors. Often times those beliefs and behaviors prove to be limiting and may keep us stuck. At times, we find ourselves anxious or depressed, stressed in our relationships and out of balance. By increasing awareness and healthy living skills, counseling offers an opportunity to change your circumstances and/or your response to them.
![Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Brower, MD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f141c97c-04a7-4074-9790-031e861d83f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
![Photo of Alexandra Stromidlo, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8a6a041-a879-4bcd-9cd3-67d360e69f5d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
![Photo of Megan Joy Bates, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be562905-5232-4fab-af39-ffc8c60e5efb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
![Photo of Austin Fishback, MSE, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/489bad06-4d0d-4c23-a892-66dae20c144c/2/320x400.jpeg)
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, not necessary or believing that they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My only goal as a therapist is to help you achieve your goals and to see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life.
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, not necessary or believing that they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My only goal as a therapist is to help you achieve your goals and to see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Patricia Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38b9e654-2e2b-4da9-89bf-6b0dca0c6ad3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Frankfort, IL 62896
Sometimes in life we struggle with understanding why or how we ended up where we have. I believe that most of us attempt to manage the best we can given our current circumstances, struggles and challenges. Even then life can still seem insurmountable. I want you to know that change is possible, but doing it alone may feel like an added burden. I will work with you collaboratively to navigate the challenges at hand. My goal is to provide an unbiased, welcoming, and therapeutic environment.
Sometimes in life we struggle with understanding why or how we ended up where we have. I believe that most of us attempt to manage the best we can given our current circumstances, struggles and challenges. Even then life can still seem insurmountable. I want you to know that change is possible, but doing it alone may feel like an added burden. I will work with you collaboratively to navigate the challenges at hand. My goal is to provide an unbiased, welcoming, and therapeutic environment.
![Photo of Nova M Griffith, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/477436d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nova M Griffith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Frankfort, IL 62896
Not accepting new clients
My name is Nova M. Griffith and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who has a practice in Johnston City, Illinois. Taking care of my patients is my very top priority. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I have a background in psychological trauma work; having worked in a trauma-informed private practice in North Dakota from 2014 to 2017 and my own practice here for the past five years. Prior to that, I worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Marion, Illinois for 10 years specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety and addictions.
My name is Nova M. Griffith and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who has a practice in Johnston City, Illinois. Taking care of my patients is my very top priority. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I have a background in psychological trauma work; having worked in a trauma-informed private practice in North Dakota from 2014 to 2017 and my own practice here for the past five years. Prior to that, I worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Marion, Illinois for 10 years specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety and addictions.
![Photo of Susan Hoffstetter, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c687b554-cb77-4152-8f64-ffdb5fcfdc33/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Susan Hoffstetter and I am a licensed therapist in Illinois with over 16 years of experience. I believe you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you overcome what is challenging you. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, addiction, Bi-polar Disorder, and trauma issues. I work with adults with anxiety, depression, Bi-Polar Disorder, addictions, and trauma issues. I am a client-centered therapist who most commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in sessions.
My name is Susan Hoffstetter and I am a licensed therapist in Illinois with over 16 years of experience. I believe you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you overcome what is challenging you. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, addiction, Bi-polar Disorder, and trauma issues. I work with adults with anxiety, depression, Bi-Polar Disorder, addictions, and trauma issues. I am a client-centered therapist who most commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in sessions.
![Photo of Evelyn Comber, PhD, LCPC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68c80361-05db-4734-88b3-3a68c5ab33c8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Evelyn Comber
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Frankfort, IL 62896 (Online Only)
Change (no matter what it is) challenges your perceptions, feeling, memories, habits, and relationships. It starts out hard and messy, but it is growth. You are becoming a better parent, friend, partner, worker. But, you may not yet have much confidence in the decisions you're making. You want someone to listen carefully and to not question your sanity, in a non-judgmental, compassionate and insightful way. You know self questioning is normal, but you also know that talking it over with someone who has your best interests at heart will help you to feel better and more confident about your choices.
Change (no matter what it is) challenges your perceptions, feeling, memories, habits, and relationships. It starts out hard and messy, but it is growth. You are becoming a better parent, friend, partner, worker. But, you may not yet have much confidence in the decisions you're making. You want someone to listen carefully and to not question your sanity, in a non-judgmental, compassionate and insightful way. You know self questioning is normal, but you also know that talking it over with someone who has your best interests at heart will help you to feel better and more confident about your choices.
See more therapy options for Benton
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Benton, IL
10+
Average cost per session
$147
Therapists in Benton, IL who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Family Conflict |
81% | Anxiety |
81% | Stress |
75% | Behavioral Issues |
75% | Coping Skills |
75% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
88% | Aetna |
88% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Benton, IL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Benton?
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
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.
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.
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.