Therapists in Noble Square, Chicago, IL

Photo of Emily Buettner - Hearten Therapy, PLLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hearten Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Hearten Therapy is committed to those who grapple with anxiety, depression, and relationship dynamics and who are navigating pivotal life shifts—whether it's the navigation of significant changes and milestones, the intricate evaluation of relationships, the transformative journey into parenthood, or the complex terrain of fertility challenges. Amidst these uncertainties, Hearten will guide you in seeking clarity, building practical coping strategies, propelling toward personal growth, and embracing empowerment through the unwavering dedication of our support.
Hearten Therapy is committed to those who grapple with anxiety, depression, and relationship dynamics and who are navigating pivotal life shifts—whether it's the navigation of significant changes and milestones, the intricate evaluation of relationships, the transformative journey into parenthood, or the complex terrain of fertility challenges. Amidst these uncertainties, Hearten will guide you in seeking clarity, building practical coping strategies, propelling toward personal growth, and embracing empowerment through the unwavering dedication of our support.
(708) 729-6240 View (708) 729-6240
Photo of Wendy Malcolm, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Malcolm
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Congratulations. You have taken the first big step for yourself and/or your relationship. The thought of therapy may feel a bit intimidating, but you won't know the difference it could make until you try. As a therapist with a specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling, I also help individuals, that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, infidelity, substance abuse, grief, divorce, and navigating a blended family. Together, we will set goals, acquire tools and develop coping mechanisms that will strengthen relationships, build confidence and uncover the true potential within each individual.
Congratulations. You have taken the first big step for yourself and/or your relationship. The thought of therapy may feel a bit intimidating, but you won't know the difference it could make until you try. As a therapist with a specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling, I also help individuals, that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, infidelity, substance abuse, grief, divorce, and navigating a blended family. Together, we will set goals, acquire tools and develop coping mechanisms that will strengthen relationships, build confidence and uncover the true potential within each individual.
(630) 454-9472 View (630) 454-9472
Photo of Rielle Johnson, PsyD, Psychologist
Rielle Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Seeking therapy is an honest first step in addressing an issue in your life. This may be a new issue, one that has been distressing for some time, or a problem that you may have explored in past treatment. Whatever the particular reason for seeking therapy, I aim to provide culturally sensitive, supportive care that leads to lasting personal growth and a sense of fulfillment.
Seeking therapy is an honest first step in addressing an issue in your life. This may be a new issue, one that has been distressing for some time, or a problem that you may have explored in past treatment. Whatever the particular reason for seeking therapy, I aim to provide culturally sensitive, supportive care that leads to lasting personal growth and a sense of fulfillment.
(872) 210-5425 View (872) 210-5425
Photo of Crystal Choi, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Choi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642
Do you struggle to find your voice in relationships or maintain healthy boundaries? Challenges like these can leave you feeling resentful, lonely, confused, and tired. Or maybe you’re overwhelmed by all the roles you play in your life and the life of others. Your default mode is to take care of everyone else, and somehow you’re left with little to no time and energy for yourself. Or maybe you’re pretty satisfied with the way things have been going in this season of life, and you’re looking to gain skills and insight to grow and mature in self-awareness and self-acceptance.
Do you struggle to find your voice in relationships or maintain healthy boundaries? Challenges like these can leave you feeling resentful, lonely, confused, and tired. Or maybe you’re overwhelmed by all the roles you play in your life and the life of others. Your default mode is to take care of everyone else, and somehow you’re left with little to no time and energy for yourself. Or maybe you’re pretty satisfied with the way things have been going in this season of life, and you’re looking to gain skills and insight to grow and mature in self-awareness and self-acceptance.
(708) 775-2478 View (708) 775-2478
Photo of Caleb Spaulding, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caleb Spaulding
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60622
Clients find my particular approach to therapy to be a casual directness that is personable but does not shy away from the emotional difficulties often involved in pursuing self-reflection or achieving true movement in their lives. People come to me when they are ready to take a closer examination of themselves and their circumstances; gaining clarity and insight into their emotions, sense of self, values, and a deeper sense of what matters to them and what to do about it.
Clients find my particular approach to therapy to be a casual directness that is personable but does not shy away from the emotional difficulties often involved in pursuing self-reflection or achieving true movement in their lives. People come to me when they are ready to take a closer examination of themselves and their circumstances; gaining clarity and insight into their emotions, sense of self, values, and a deeper sense of what matters to them and what to do about it.
(312) 584-5183 View (312) 584-5183
Photo of Shannon Konecny - Shannon Konecny- Kind Mind Counseling PLLC, MA, LCPC, NCC
Shannon Konecny- Kind Mind Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
At Kind Mind Counseling PLLC, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and affirming care. My approach is tailored to address the unique needs of those with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety Disorders, Body Image, Perfectionism, and those navigating Life Transitions. My approach to therapy incorporates humor, warmth and authenticity to provide a safe and collaborative environment. Throughout our time together, my aim is to foster an authentic and transparent relationship, while also supporting you in recognizing patterns, overcoming challenges, and embracing opportunities for personal growth and self-acceptance.
At Kind Mind Counseling PLLC, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and affirming care. My approach is tailored to address the unique needs of those with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety Disorders, Body Image, Perfectionism, and those navigating Life Transitions. My approach to therapy incorporates humor, warmth and authenticity to provide a safe and collaborative environment. Throughout our time together, my aim is to foster an authentic and transparent relationship, while also supporting you in recognizing patterns, overcoming challenges, and embracing opportunities for personal growth and self-acceptance.
(312) 667-0727 View (312) 667-0727
Photo of Daniel Aron Edwards - Daniel A Edwards, PsyD, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniel A Edwards, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical psychologist I will work collaboratively with you to identify and better understand the challenges you are facing, as well as the strengths and supports you possess to address these challenges. I have seen firsthand how this exploration can lead to desired changes in people's lives. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, substance abuse, body image and eating problems, grief and loss, relationship concerns, life adjustments, family issues, identity and sexual orientation issues, self-esteem development, immigration, and acculturation issues.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I will work collaboratively with you to identify and better understand the challenges you are facing, as well as the strengths and supports you possess to address these challenges. I have seen firsthand how this exploration can lead to desired changes in people's lives. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, substance abuse, body image and eating problems, grief and loss, relationship concerns, life adjustments, family issues, identity and sexual orientation issues, self-esteem development, immigration, and acculturation issues.
(872) 259-4710 View (872) 259-4710
Photo of Hifza Ayaz - EMDR Therapy with Hifza Ayaz, Pre-Licensed Professional
EMDR Therapy with Hifza Ayaz
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I'm Hifza Ayaz, EMDR Therapist. Something that is common to every one of us are experiences of hardship followed by the emotional unraveling of our lives. In these moments, we are called to acknowledge the reality of our struggle, to honor our emotions through expression within the safe spaces they deserve, and to experience healing, strength and the confidence to meaningfully move forward. Therapy is a process of discovery wherein we may explore and discuss comparative self-criticism based on anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and major life changes. I believe that healing through meaning-making is possible through self-compassion.
I'm Hifza Ayaz, EMDR Therapist. Something that is common to every one of us are experiences of hardship followed by the emotional unraveling of our lives. In these moments, we are called to acknowledge the reality of our struggle, to honor our emotions through expression within the safe spaces they deserve, and to experience healing, strength and the confidence to meaningfully move forward. Therapy is a process of discovery wherein we may explore and discuss comparative self-criticism based on anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and major life changes. I believe that healing through meaning-making is possible through self-compassion.
(331) 241-6297 View (331) 241-6297
Photo of Eve Chalom, BC-DMT
Eve Chalom
BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642
I am comfortable working with a wide range of issues, and working with me is best for clients who are interested in not only talking through their problems, but physically moving about them and getting a felt sense of everything that’s going on. As a dance movement therapist, I think the body can be a marvelous source for solutions and insights, when the movement is approached in a way that’s comfortable and safe. Talking is also an important part of the process, as we are whole mind/body systems, and we work best when both are accessible and well connected to each other. Resolving and integrating the past is part of the work.
I am comfortable working with a wide range of issues, and working with me is best for clients who are interested in not only talking through their problems, but physically moving about them and getting a felt sense of everything that’s going on. As a dance movement therapist, I think the body can be a marvelous source for solutions and insights, when the movement is approached in a way that’s comfortable and safe. Talking is also an important part of the process, as we are whole mind/body systems, and we work best when both are accessible and well connected to each other. Resolving and integrating the past is part of the work.
(312) 872-8952 View (312) 872-8952
Photo of Kate Loewenstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Loewenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
You can’t stop worrying and it’s driving you crazy. You’ve had a recent panic attack and you’re terrified you’ll have another. You’re feeling sad, depleted and disinterested in life. You feel disconnected in your relationships and everything seems to take too much effort. You’re trying to stay on top of everything in life, but it feels overwhelming.
You can’t stop worrying and it’s driving you crazy. You’ve had a recent panic attack and you’re terrified you’ll have another. You’re feeling sad, depleted and disinterested in life. You feel disconnected in your relationships and everything seems to take too much effort. You’re trying to stay on top of everything in life, but it feels overwhelming.
(773) 823-0540 View (773) 823-0540
Photo of Justin Hahn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Hahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642
With eight years of experience in therapy, I have worked extensively in outpatient and in-home settings, specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression, difficult life transitions, addiction/substance abuse, and autism spectrum disorder. Recognizing the challenges of daily life, I offer evidence-based perspectives to streamline the therapeutic process. Utilizing mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and a deep understanding of neurodiversity, my aim is to facilitate healing and self-actualization.
With eight years of experience in therapy, I have worked extensively in outpatient and in-home settings, specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression, difficult life transitions, addiction/substance abuse, and autism spectrum disorder. Recognizing the challenges of daily life, I offer evidence-based perspectives to streamline the therapeutic process. Utilizing mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and a deep understanding of neurodiversity, my aim is to facilitate healing and self-actualization.
(312) 635-5142 View (312) 635-5142
Photo of Jennifer Nazha, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Nazha
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642
As a former journalist turned therapist and first-generation Middle Eastern American, I understand the complexities of life transitions and cultural dynamics. These experiences often lead to feelings of identity confusion, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Navigating these issues can be overwhelming, especially when it impacts your relationships and values, but I'm here to walk alongside you. My therapeutic approach is holistic, collaborative, and integrative, designed to help you achieve your goals. Together, we'll explore the interconnectedness of your emotional, mental, relational, physical, and spiritual health.
As a former journalist turned therapist and first-generation Middle Eastern American, I understand the complexities of life transitions and cultural dynamics. These experiences often lead to feelings of identity confusion, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Navigating these issues can be overwhelming, especially when it impacts your relationships and values, but I'm here to walk alongside you. My therapeutic approach is holistic, collaborative, and integrative, designed to help you achieve your goals. Together, we'll explore the interconnectedness of your emotional, mental, relational, physical, and spiritual health.
(708) 847-6514 View (708) 847-6514
Photo of Christine Webster, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Webster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60622
Not accepting new clients
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to strengthen or transform relationships already formed as well as help people find and build the connections they truly want. I believe that we all have the capacity to heal within ourselves, and I work hard to help my clients find that innate ability and bring it to the forefront. I strive to create a safe space where my clients can feel seen and heard as they heal from past pain and move towards new positive experiences.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to strengthen or transform relationships already formed as well as help people find and build the connections they truly want. I believe that we all have the capacity to heal within ourselves, and I work hard to help my clients find that innate ability and bring it to the forefront. I strive to create a safe space where my clients can feel seen and heard as they heal from past pain and move towards new positive experiences.
(312) 425-2947 View (312) 425-2947
Photo of Hamidah Muhammad - EMDR Therapy with Hamidah Muhammad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
EMDR Therapy with Hamidah Muhammad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642
Hi! I’m Hamidah Muhammad, an EMDR Therapist. We all go through challenging times and experiences, and I’m here to help. We'll use the power of EMDR Therapy to help you heal and transform hard experiences into growth.
Hi! I’m Hamidah Muhammad, an EMDR Therapist. We all go through challenging times and experiences, and I’m here to help. We'll use the power of EMDR Therapy to help you heal and transform hard experiences into growth.
(312) 815-2460 View (312) 815-2460
Photo of Sean F Welsh, PsyD, Psychologist
Sean F Welsh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60622
Life is a journey with many challenges, and people often become stuck, whether in a way of feeling (sad, anxious, in pain) or a way of being (job, relationship, lifestyle). Such distress and confusion can make it hard to move forward. A therapist who genuinely understands and accepts you can help relieve that distress and mobilize your strengths to move forward in a meaningful direction. As a psychologist, I am skilled in helping you free yourself from being stuck to find the meaning, fulfillment and joy that also can be part of life's journey.
Life is a journey with many challenges, and people often become stuck, whether in a way of feeling (sad, anxious, in pain) or a way of being (job, relationship, lifestyle). Such distress and confusion can make it hard to move forward. A therapist who genuinely understands and accepts you can help relieve that distress and mobilize your strengths to move forward in a meaningful direction. As a psychologist, I am skilled in helping you free yourself from being stuck to find the meaning, fulfillment and joy that also can be part of life's journey.
(773) 932-6270 View (773) 932-6270
Photo of Britni Ludwig, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Britni Ludwig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642
Are you ready to embrace growth and change? Seeking help can be hard, especially for those who pride themselves on being strong and independent. Therapy offers a valuable opportunity for self-discovery, growth, and transformation. I specialize in women's issues, particularly focusing on stress, anxiety, and the unique challenges of the postpartum period and early motherhood. If you're ready to figure out what's holding you back, improve your boundaries and relationships, and develop better coping strategies, you're taking a powerful step in the right direction. Let's work together to create the life you deserve.
Are you ready to embrace growth and change? Seeking help can be hard, especially for those who pride themselves on being strong and independent. Therapy offers a valuable opportunity for self-discovery, growth, and transformation. I specialize in women's issues, particularly focusing on stress, anxiety, and the unique challenges of the postpartum period and early motherhood. If you're ready to figure out what's holding you back, improve your boundaries and relationships, and develop better coping strategies, you're taking a powerful step in the right direction. Let's work together to create the life you deserve.
(312) 477-2840 View (312) 477-2840
Photo of Debralyn Lazarescu, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Debralyn Lazarescu
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60610
Growth is hard, but you don't have to do it alone. I love working with each client as they discover their unique strengths and move toward hope, healing, and growth. I work primarily with young adults and couples navigating life adjustments and identity development who are hoping to increase self-awareness and wholistic health, discover and regulate their emotions, and establish healthy relationships with self and others.
Growth is hard, but you don't have to do it alone. I love working with each client as they discover their unique strengths and move toward hope, healing, and growth. I work primarily with young adults and couples navigating life adjustments and identity development who are hoping to increase self-awareness and wholistic health, discover and regulate their emotions, and establish healthy relationships with self and others.
(312) 667-5825 View (312) 667-5825
Photo of Sujai Chang, LCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sujai Chang
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
Specializing in EMDR, Grief, and Perinatal Mental Health. Let's Navigate the Depths Together. As a bilingual (spanish) therapist I am here to support adults and couples navigating through life's toughest challenges. Whether you're battling feelings of depression, anxiety, or facing difficult transitions, know that you're not alone. Together, we'll equip you with the tools to overcome these obstacles and rediscover joy. Life's journey can be overwhelming, but with compassionate guidance, healing is possible. Let's embark on this journey together.
Specializing in EMDR, Grief, and Perinatal Mental Health. Let's Navigate the Depths Together. As a bilingual (spanish) therapist I am here to support adults and couples navigating through life's toughest challenges. Whether you're battling feelings of depression, anxiety, or facing difficult transitions, know that you're not alone. Together, we'll equip you with the tools to overcome these obstacles and rediscover joy. Life's journey can be overwhelming, but with compassionate guidance, healing is possible. Let's embark on this journey together.
(708) 578-2154 View (708) 578-2154
Photo of Siobhan Carey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Siobhan Carey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with adult clients experiencing anxiety, OCD, depression, career changes, life transitions, and relationship issues. I also enjoy working with clients who are looking to increase their self-awareness and better understand their thought patterns and behaviors so they can move toward the things that are important to them in their life. How is your past impacting your present? How are you thinking about your experiences as you move through your daily life? What (or who?) is holding you back from yourself and your values? These are some of the questions we might start to ask as we move through our work together..
I work with adult clients experiencing anxiety, OCD, depression, career changes, life transitions, and relationship issues. I also enjoy working with clients who are looking to increase their self-awareness and better understand their thought patterns and behaviors so they can move toward the things that are important to them in their life. How is your past impacting your present? How are you thinking about your experiences as you move through your daily life? What (or who?) is holding you back from yourself and your values? These are some of the questions we might start to ask as we move through our work together..
(773) 839-4085 View (773) 839-4085
Photo of Jennifer Ngaonye, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Ngaonye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Noble Square, Chicago, IL 60642
I believe that everyone has purpose and value no matter how big or small. My goal in counseling is to walk alongside my clients on their journey to mental wellness as they rediscover and align themselves with the lives they desire to live.
I believe that everyone has purpose and value no matter how big or small. My goal in counseling is to walk alongside my clients on their journey to mental wellness as they rediscover and align themselves with the lives they desire to live.
(708) 578-7197 View (708) 578-7197

See more therapy options for Noble Square, Chicago

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Noble Square, Chicago, IL

60+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Noble Square, Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
90% Depression
87% Relationship Issues
77% Life Transitions
75% Grief
75% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% BlueCross and BlueShield
58% Aetna
31% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Noble Square, Chicago, IL see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Noble Square, Chicago?

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.