Therapists in Ina, IL

Photo of Anthony Brooks, LCPC, Counselor
Anthony Brooks
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Ina, IL 62846
As a 3rd generation social services worker, I often joke that I was born into this field. I cannot imagine myself in any other profession. This is all I have ever wanted to do. With that being said, I was also born into a society that often refuses to accept the necessity for therapy. Especially for men and people of color. Part of my aim as a clinician is to dispel some of the bias towards seeking help for mental health issues. If you had an injured limb, you would seek out help. If you had contracted a virus, you would seek out help. Why should seeking out help for emotional and mental illness be any different? It should not!
As a 3rd generation social services worker, I often joke that I was born into this field. I cannot imagine myself in any other profession. This is all I have ever wanted to do. With that being said, I was also born into a society that often refuses to accept the necessity for therapy. Especially for men and people of color. Part of my aim as a clinician is to dispel some of the bias towards seeking help for mental health issues. If you had an injured limb, you would seek out help. If you had contracted a virus, you would seek out help. Why should seeking out help for emotional and mental illness be any different? It should not!
(618) 745-2484 View (618) 745-2484

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sheila Ashby, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila Ashby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bonnie, IL 62816
Making a decision to come to counseling can be a frightening one. Please know many people come the first time very apprehensive. Together we will build you up and give you the confidence and tools you need to make healthy life choices. The goal is a healthy, happy you!
Making a decision to come to counseling can be a frightening one. Please know many people come the first time very apprehensive. Together we will build you up and give you the confidence and tools you need to make healthy life choices. The goal is a healthy, happy you!
(618) 223-5260 View (618) 223-5260
Photo of Susan Halpin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Halpin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waltonville, IL 62894
Hi there! My name is Suzy Halpin and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with a master's degree in social work. I am based in Chicago and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, 18 years and above. My practice is focused on helping individuals manage anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. I offer client-centered services, and therefore, I use a variety of evidence-based theories in my practice. Some approaches that have worked well in the past include cognitive behavioral, acceptance, and psycho-educational therapies.
Hi there! My name is Suzy Halpin and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with a master's degree in social work. I am based in Chicago and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, 18 years and above. My practice is focused on helping individuals manage anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. I offer client-centered services, and therefore, I use a variety of evidence-based theories in my practice. Some approaches that have worked well in the past include cognitive behavioral, acceptance, and psycho-educational therapies.
(309) 455-8843 View (309) 455-8843
Photo of Gaelle Vernet, LCPC, Counselor
Gaelle Vernet
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bonnie, IL 62816
My name is Gaëlle Vernet and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about taking on the journey with people to assist them with identifying the interconnections of different parts of their lives. I have worked as a case manager as well as a mental health specialist, which allowed me to interact with individuals of eclectic backgrounds, including, but not limited to homeless, parolees, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, dual diagnosis), and people with other life maladjustments.
My name is Gaëlle Vernet and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is passionate about taking on the journey with people to assist them with identifying the interconnections of different parts of their lives. I have worked as a case manager as well as a mental health specialist, which allowed me to interact with individuals of eclectic backgrounds, including, but not limited to homeless, parolees, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ, mental health disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, dual diagnosis), and people with other life maladjustments.
(847) 443-5158 View (847) 443-5158
Photo of Chanel Hampton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chanel Hampton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belle Rive, IL 62810
It takes great courage to acknowledge and embrace the things that challenge us. I understand this strength and the importance of starting the journey to change the things that no longer serve you. I am a compassionate therapist trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities. I have worked in social services for over ten years, working in various capacities, from medical social workers to therapists. I seek to help individuals and families address anxiety, depression, and trauma issues. I believe that healing takes place by identifying the source of the problem. The therapy hour is a sacred time of healing owned by the client.
It takes great courage to acknowledge and embrace the things that challenge us. I understand this strength and the importance of starting the journey to change the things that no longer serve you. I am a compassionate therapist trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities. I have worked in social services for over ten years, working in various capacities, from medical social workers to therapists. I seek to help individuals and families address anxiety, depression, and trauma issues. I believe that healing takes place by identifying the source of the problem. The therapy hour is a sacred time of healing owned by the client.
(708) 847-9874 View (708) 847-9874
Photo of Kassandra Leber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kassandra Leber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Benton, IL 62812
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.
(224) 267-9165 View (224) 267-9165
Photo of Amy Schuring, LCPC
Amy Schuring
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Benton, IL 62812
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!
(618) 268-3433 View (618) 268-3433

Online Therapists

Photo of Sarah A Mossa, MBA, LCPC, LPCC, LPC, NCC
Sarah A Mossa
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MBA, LCPC, LPCC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shiloh, IL 62269  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with sleep? anxiety? Finding yourself having an increased use of food or alcohol? Confused as to why this particular situation is so difficult when you have managed many traumas situations in the past? Wondering why you just can't seem to get on the same page with your spouse? Struggling to connect with your partner? Have you recently had a miscarriage, or having difficulties with pregnancy or post birth concerns? I look forward to helping you with any and all of these concerns through telephonic or video counseling.
Are you struggling with sleep? anxiety? Finding yourself having an increased use of food or alcohol? Confused as to why this particular situation is so difficult when you have managed many traumas situations in the past? Wondering why you just can't seem to get on the same page with your spouse? Struggling to connect with your partner? Have you recently had a miscarriage, or having difficulties with pregnancy or post birth concerns? I look forward to helping you with any and all of these concerns through telephonic or video counseling.
(618) 202-5480 View (618) 202-5480
Photo of Austin Fishback, MSE, Pre-Licensed Professional
Austin Fishback
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSE
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe 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 goal is to help you achieve your goals and 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. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe 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 goal is to help you achieve your goals and 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. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
(618) 243-0288 View (618) 243-0288
Photo of David Kovach, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Kovach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Taylorville, IL 62568
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor from Chicago with five years of clinical experience. I am a member of the LGBTQIA community and specialize in obsessive compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, and men's issues. I employ a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, and Person-Centered therapies, and utilize Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Exposure Therapy for Anxiety, and Behavioral Activation for Depression. As a career-changer from the medical field to working as a therapist, I get that life throws you curveballs sometimes, but we can work together to get through those curveballs.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor from Chicago with five years of clinical experience. I am a member of the LGBTQIA community and specialize in obsessive compulsive disorders, anxiety, depression, and men's issues. I employ a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, and Person-Centered therapies, and utilize Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD, Exposure Therapy for Anxiety, and Behavioral Activation for Depression. As a career-changer from the medical field to working as a therapist, I get that life throws you curveballs sometimes, but we can work together to get through those curveballs.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Carolyn Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Collinsville, IL 62234
I am Carolyn Franklin, a licensed clinical social worker. I am a skilled therapist with over 30 years in the profession, working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have conducted individual, group, couples, and family therapies. I have worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issue, and many other concerns. I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I truly enjoy my work, and my clients have been successful. I worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family adjustments, and even individuals having difficulty making decisions.
I am Carolyn Franklin, a licensed clinical social worker. I am a skilled therapist with over 30 years in the profession, working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have conducted individual, group, couples, and family therapies. I have worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issue, and many other concerns. I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I truly enjoy my work, and my clients have been successful. I worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family adjustments, and even individuals having difficulty making decisions.
(618) 268-1938 View (618) 268-1938
Photo of Brandy L Smith, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Brandy L Smith
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Are you not feeling yourself? Would you like to process life situations that are causing stress? I am here to help! I am passionate about helping my client's achieve their goals while they strive to become happier and healthier. I work with a variety of ages to help navigate their personal growth and relationships.
Are you not feeling yourself? Would you like to process life situations that are causing stress? I am here to help! I am passionate about helping my client's achieve their goals while they strive to become happier and healthier. I work with a variety of ages to help navigate their personal growth and relationships.
(618) 414-4199 View (618) 414-4199
Photo of Andrew Caldwell, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Caldwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, IL 62439
Life is hard! There are some many different experiences in life, and some are very difficult! There's this interesting thing that happens when we encounter difficult times, we tend to push away; but we are never meant to journey alone through these times! I’m thankful that part of what I get to do is journey with people who struggle.
Life is hard! There are some many different experiences in life, and some are very difficult! There's this interesting thing that happens when we encounter difficult times, we tend to push away; but we are never meant to journey alone through these times! I’m thankful that part of what I get to do is journey with people who struggle.
(618) 602-0060 View (618) 602-0060
Photo of Candyce Bell, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Candyce Bell
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
I am an Army Veteran and LCPC with a certification as a national certified counselor through the NBCC and have accumulated over 6 years of direct individual/group practice as a licensed counselor. Overall, my experience spans over 10 years working as a crisis, substance use, and mental health counselor in the field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and substance use. I also have assisted many clients who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
I am an Army Veteran and LCPC with a certification as a national certified counselor through the NBCC and have accumulated over 6 years of direct individual/group practice as a licensed counselor. Overall, my experience spans over 10 years working as a crisis, substance use, and mental health counselor in the field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and substance use. I also have assisted many clients who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
(618) 867-4070 View (618) 867-4070
Photo of Susan Norsigian, LCPC
Susan Norsigian
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
I focus on my clients' individual situations and work with them to find answers they need to live healthy and productive lives. My goal is to empower clients to use their individual strengths. I use an eclectic approach, which can include cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, object relations and DBT techniques. I am an art therapist, and incorporate creative expression when appropriate. I may use one or all of these approaches with you. I believe treatment is a journey that we take together, the ultimate end result being you walk your own path with tools you need to be healthy and happy.
I focus on my clients' individual situations and work with them to find answers they need to live healthy and productive lives. My goal is to empower clients to use their individual strengths. I use an eclectic approach, which can include cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, object relations and DBT techniques. I am an art therapist, and incorporate creative expression when appropriate. I may use one or all of these approaches with you. I believe treatment is a journey that we take together, the ultimate end result being you walk your own path with tools you need to be healthy and happy.
(618) 627-7403 View (618) 627-7403
Photo of Tina White, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vandalia, IL 62471
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of professional experience as a non-profit leader and clinician providing direct services to a diverse population. I’m a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, adverse child experiences, gender and sexual identity, and substance use issues. I often use a cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based approach within a trauma-informed and harm reduction framework. My training and experience benefit survivors of trauma, life transitions, psychological distress, and identity issues.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of professional experience as a non-profit leader and clinician providing direct services to a diverse population. I’m a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, adverse child experiences, gender and sexual identity, and substance use issues. I often use a cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based approach within a trauma-informed and harm reduction framework. My training and experience benefit survivors of trauma, life transitions, psychological distress, and identity issues.
(872) 469-7550 View (872) 469-7550
Photo of Mistie Tennant, LCPC, PMH-C, Counselor
Mistie Tennant
Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
Sit back, take your shoes off and get as comfortable as you would like, that is the mantra I have for anyone who comes into my office. I have created a calming, welcoming space for people to feel they can share what they need to share, cry, laugh or yell. I love the aha moments people have or when they finally start to realize for themselves that they are going to be okay, might not be great but even okay is better than nothing. I love working with perinatal and postpartum clients especially those first time new mamas who are getting use to their new role. I would love to help you through your journey, good, bad or other.
Sit back, take your shoes off and get as comfortable as you would like, that is the mantra I have for anyone who comes into my office. I have created a calming, welcoming space for people to feel they can share what they need to share, cry, laugh or yell. I love the aha moments people have or when they finally start to realize for themselves that they are going to be okay, might not be great but even okay is better than nothing. I love working with perinatal and postpartum clients especially those first time new mamas who are getting use to their new role. I would love to help you through your journey, good, bad or other.
(618) 995-8340 View (618) 995-8340
Photo of Evonne L. Stephenson, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Evonne L. Stephenson
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Metropolis, IL 62960
Oftentimes 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...
Oftentimes 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...
(618) 507-5219 View (618) 507-5219
Photo of Kara Bordeaux - Total Life Wellness PLLC, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Total Life Wellness PLLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IL 62298  (Online Only)
Are you looking for growth in your personal or professional life? Together we'll work together to identify your strengths as well as any mental blocks standing in your way of becoming your best self. Areas of clinical expertise include working with individuals who are experiencing life changes/ challenges. Folks who have/are experiencing complex trauma, low self esteem, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and domestic violence. I provide relationship/ marriage and family counseling to those struggling with a variety of issues ranging from infidelity, communication and poly couples. As well as services for the LGTBQIA+.
Are you looking for growth in your personal or professional life? Together we'll work together to identify your strengths as well as any mental blocks standing in your way of becoming your best self. Areas of clinical expertise include working with individuals who are experiencing life changes/ challenges. Folks who have/are experiencing complex trauma, low self esteem, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and domestic violence. I provide relationship/ marriage and family counseling to those struggling with a variety of issues ranging from infidelity, communication and poly couples. As well as services for the LGTBQIA+.
(618) 762-4651 View (618) 762-4651
Photo of Libby Fisher, LCPC, Counselor
Libby Fisher
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Edwardsville, IL 62025
Imagine your child feeling overwhelmed by emotions they can't quite express or understand. They may seem anxious, withdrawn, or struggling with school, friendships, or changes at home. As a parent, you might feel helpless, wanting to support them but unsure how. Your child’s needs go beyond just talking—what they truly need is a safe, creative space where they can explore their emotions in a way that makes sense to them. You want to see them feel understood, validated, and equipped with the tools to manage their emotions and grow confidently.
Imagine your child feeling overwhelmed by emotions they can't quite express or understand. They may seem anxious, withdrawn, or struggling with school, friendships, or changes at home. As a parent, you might feel helpless, wanting to support them but unsure how. Your child’s needs go beyond just talking—what they truly need is a safe, creative space where they can explore their emotions in a way that makes sense to them. You want to see them feel understood, validated, and equipped with the tools to manage their emotions and grow confidently.
(618) 423-8541 View (618) 423-8541

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ina, IL

< 10

Therapists in Ina, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Life Coaching
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Anger Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Ina, IL see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ina?

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.