Therapists in Springfield, IL

Photo of Kay A Gottrich, MA, LCPC, RIST, ICST, THTC, Counselor
Kay A Gottrich
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RIST, ICST, THTC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I believe that I work best with clients who are invested in getting well. I work best with clients who want to do the hard work of exploring their emotional and somatic (body) reactions to life's stressors and people. This is not talk therapy. I use art, sandtray, EMDR. and Sensorimotor therapy to provide opportunities for updating coping skills and teaching clients how to regulate one's nervous system which in turn empowers a client to realize he/she/they can bring themselves to calm. You will learn what is triggering in both body memory and emotional memory which often keep you living in fear or anxiety.
I believe that I work best with clients who are invested in getting well. I work best with clients who want to do the hard work of exploring their emotional and somatic (body) reactions to life's stressors and people. This is not talk therapy. I use art, sandtray, EMDR. and Sensorimotor therapy to provide opportunities for updating coping skills and teaching clients how to regulate one's nervous system which in turn empowers a client to realize he/she/they can bring themselves to calm. You will learn what is triggering in both body memory and emotional memory which often keep you living in fear or anxiety.
(217) 906-3726 View (217) 906-3726
Photo of Emily Walker, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
It’s important to me that therapy is a safe place where clients can show up as their authentic selves and leave feeling seen, heard, and understood. We will work together to build the skills and supports that empower you to live a life that makes sense for you. Pema Chodron explains how I experience the therapeutic process, “Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.”
It’s important to me that therapy is a safe place where clients can show up as their authentic selves and leave feeling seen, heard, and understood. We will work together to build the skills and supports that empower you to live a life that makes sense for you. Pema Chodron explains how I experience the therapeutic process, “Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.”
(217) 834-1645 View (217) 834-1645
Photo of Paula Voigt, LCPC, Counselor
Paula Voigt
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Are having difficulty coping after experiencing a miscarriage? Are you struggling with infertility? Do you feel overwhelmed with the stress of assisted reproductive treatments? As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, I understand the complex emotional and psychological impact that infertility and miscarriage can have. I can support you in maintaining hope, peace and positivity while navigating uncertainty and help you build resiliency as you work through obstacles. Having personally faced infertility and both early and late miscarriages, I have intimate experience in working through these unique and difficult challenges.
Are having difficulty coping after experiencing a miscarriage? Are you struggling with infertility? Do you feel overwhelmed with the stress of assisted reproductive treatments? As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, I understand the complex emotional and psychological impact that infertility and miscarriage can have. I can support you in maintaining hope, peace and positivity while navigating uncertainty and help you build resiliency as you work through obstacles. Having personally faced infertility and both early and late miscarriages, I have intimate experience in working through these unique and difficult challenges.
(224) 505-1550 View (224) 505-1550
Photo of James E Myers, PsyD, Psychologist
James E Myers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I work with people who often have an issue or problem which prevents them from fully functioning in life, which affects their ability to be happy. This might be a relationship issue, a personality problem which has bothered them from childhood, or a bio-psycho-social issue like depression or anxiety. I seek to help people by developing a relationship in which we can work in a therapeutic modality that is appropriate for them.
I work with people who often have an issue or problem which prevents them from fully functioning in life, which affects their ability to be happy. This might be a relationship issue, a personality problem which has bothered them from childhood, or a bio-psycho-social issue like depression or anxiety. I seek to help people by developing a relationship in which we can work in a therapeutic modality that is appropriate for them.
(217) 290-2562 View (217) 290-2562
Photo of Oluwatamilore Odimayo, LCPC, Counselor
Oluwatamilore Odimayo
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Do you struggle with figuring out the aspects of your life that serve you and the aspects of your life you need to break up with? Do you struggle with identifying ways to deal with sources of depression and anxiety? Are you trying to figure out ways to live a happier and more content life aligned with your most authentic self? Now, more than ever, most people report feeling disconnected from their jobs, romantic relationships, familial relationships, and lives. Sometimes, the mind and body’s way of telling us that something needs to change is discomfort, which is our instinct’s way of sending an alert signal.
Do you struggle with figuring out the aspects of your life that serve you and the aspects of your life you need to break up with? Do you struggle with identifying ways to deal with sources of depression and anxiety? Are you trying to figure out ways to live a happier and more content life aligned with your most authentic self? Now, more than ever, most people report feeling disconnected from their jobs, romantic relationships, familial relationships, and lives. Sometimes, the mind and body’s way of telling us that something needs to change is discomfort, which is our instinct’s way of sending an alert signal.
(224) 444-6628 View (224) 444-6628
Photo of Latavia S Agada, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Latavia S Agada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker, who is compassionate and supportive in helping you overcome life challenges. I am a big believer in your ability to persevere and overcome life's challenges and sit with you as an interactive listener, source of support and also a challenger of thoughts. I strongly believe in trauma-informed care and my specialties are in trauma, grief, cultural issues and adjustments, amongst other presenting issues. You, your situation, and your life are very important and I want you to feel that way in your session.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, who is compassionate and supportive in helping you overcome life challenges. I am a big believer in your ability to persevere and overcome life's challenges and sit with you as an interactive listener, source of support and also a challenger of thoughts. I strongly believe in trauma-informed care and my specialties are in trauma, grief, cultural issues and adjustments, amongst other presenting issues. You, your situation, and your life are very important and I want you to feel that way in your session.
(815) 396-4403 View (815) 396-4403
Photo of Stephanie Perkins, LCPC
Stephanie Perkins
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Stephanie Perkins, LCPC, is personable, empathetic, and genuinely cares about client progress throughout the therapeutic process. She meets clients where they are and makes sure they have the opportunity to share and rewrite their story in a safe, comfortable space. Stephanie supports adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and more. In therapy, Stephanie uses CBT along with cognitive restructuring, guided imagery, journaling, role playing, and various relaxation techniques to help clients reach their goals.
Stephanie Perkins, LCPC, is personable, empathetic, and genuinely cares about client progress throughout the therapeutic process. She meets clients where they are and makes sure they have the opportunity to share and rewrite their story in a safe, comfortable space. Stephanie supports adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and more. In therapy, Stephanie uses CBT along with cognitive restructuring, guided imagery, journaling, role playing, and various relaxation techniques to help clients reach their goals.
(217) 993-8101 View (217) 993-8101
Vickie L Huffman Pruitt
Counselor, LCPC, C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I provide a variety of personalized mental health services to individuals, couples. and families to improve their quality of life. Our quality of life can be interrupted in many ways. Loss of a loved one, relationship problems, parenting struggles, addictions, anxiety, depression, and job stress. Sometimes these can be just little bumps in the road, sometimes they can be overwhelming, or maybe your finding your unresolved past is interfering with your life today. I will meet you where you are, and offer guidance and insight to assist you to get to where you want to be, with the goal, improving your quality of life.
Hello, I provide a variety of personalized mental health services to individuals, couples. and families to improve their quality of life. Our quality of life can be interrupted in many ways. Loss of a loved one, relationship problems, parenting struggles, addictions, anxiety, depression, and job stress. Sometimes these can be just little bumps in the road, sometimes they can be overwhelming, or maybe your finding your unresolved past is interfering with your life today. I will meet you where you are, and offer guidance and insight to assist you to get to where you want to be, with the goal, improving your quality of life.
(217) 216-1967 View (217) 216-1967
Vernise Miguel
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701
As a licensed mental health therapist, my mission is to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges, from anxiety and depression to relationship issues and personal growth.
As a licensed mental health therapist, my mission is to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. With years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping individuals navigate life's challenges, from anxiety and depression to relationship issues and personal growth.
(217) 595-1168 View (217) 595-1168
Photo of Janson Shehorn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janson Shehorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Janson Shehorn, LPC, NCC, is a genuine, caring, and enthusiastic individual. He has spent many years working with young people, from early elementary age to college age, in a variety of professional settings. He has a passion for making the most of every moment and helping others to reach a similar point of view. He aims to cultivate a positive working relationship during the counseling process. Janson encourages his clients to develop new skills and to self-reflect to foster long lasting change within their lives. Janson works with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, addiction, anxiety, grief and more.
Janson Shehorn, LPC, NCC, is a genuine, caring, and enthusiastic individual. He has spent many years working with young people, from early elementary age to college age, in a variety of professional settings. He has a passion for making the most of every moment and helping others to reach a similar point of view. He aims to cultivate a positive working relationship during the counseling process. Janson encourages his clients to develop new skills and to self-reflect to foster long lasting change within their lives. Janson works with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, addiction, anxiety, grief and more.
(217) 727-8416 View (217) 727-8416
Photo of Hillary LaMontagne, LCPC, CADC
Hillary LaMontagne
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Hillary has over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and offers therapy for individuals ages 13 and up dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. Hillary enjoys working with individuals who have experienced grief and loss through death and divorce, are healing from trauma, moms dealing with postpartum depression, and the LGBTQ community. Her specialty areas include substance abuse recovery and transgender transitions. She offers animal-assisted therapy with her dog, Holly, to create a relaxed and comforting environment during sessions.
Hillary has over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and offers therapy for individuals ages 13 and up dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. Hillary enjoys working with individuals who have experienced grief and loss through death and divorce, are healing from trauma, moms dealing with postpartum depression, and the LGBTQ community. Her specialty areas include substance abuse recovery and transgender transitions. She offers animal-assisted therapy with her dog, Holly, to create a relaxed and comforting environment during sessions.
(217) 773-5417 View (217) 773-5417
Photo of Linda Lanier, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Lanier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701
If you are stressed or depressed or working through a difficult time, it can be so helpful to have a safe, compassionate person to bounce things off of. I don't have all of the answers, but, after nearly 3 decades of experience, I have some of them. Using data-based techniques, I can help you correct unhelpful patterns and unlock answers within yourself. I love helping people live their best life.
If you are stressed or depressed or working through a difficult time, it can be so helpful to have a safe, compassionate person to bounce things off of. I don't have all of the answers, but, after nearly 3 decades of experience, I have some of them. Using data-based techniques, I can help you correct unhelpful patterns and unlock answers within yourself. I love helping people live their best life.
(217) 993-9006 View (217) 993-9006
Photo of undefined - Brittany Helmich- Behavioral Health Center of IL., LCPC, CADC, MA
Brittany Helmich- Behavioral Health Center of IL.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Brittany Helmich is a LCPC and CADC. She attained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Blackburn College and her Master's Degree in Clinical Adult Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Brittany’s clinical experience ranges from Wells Center, community mental health, both Gateway residential and outpatient substance use disorder treatment, drug court, Memorial psychiatric response team and crisis counseling, and working with service members and their families through the Illinois Army and Air National Guard. Brittany’s therapeutic experience includes working with children,
Brittany Helmich is a LCPC and CADC. She attained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Blackburn College and her Master's Degree in Clinical Adult Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Brittany’s clinical experience ranges from Wells Center, community mental health, both Gateway residential and outpatient substance use disorder treatment, drug court, Memorial psychiatric response team and crisis counseling, and working with service members and their families through the Illinois Army and Air National Guard. Brittany’s therapeutic experience includes working with children,
(217) 290-1345 View (217) 290-1345
Photo of Tara Winkler, LCPC, Counselor
Tara Winkler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Waitlist for new clients
As a mental health clinician, I consider it an honor to help individuals and their families as they navigate the challenges in their lives. My approach to therapy focuses on highlighting and building on my clients' personal strengths, as we work together to achieve treatment goals and simply feel better. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment that encourages emotional exploration, healing, and wellness. I have a holistic approach to therapy, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and interventions, with an emphasis on mindfulness, yogic interventions, and positive psychology.
As a mental health clinician, I consider it an honor to help individuals and their families as they navigate the challenges in their lives. My approach to therapy focuses on highlighting and building on my clients' personal strengths, as we work together to achieve treatment goals and simply feel better. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment that encourages emotional exploration, healing, and wellness. I have a holistic approach to therapy, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and interventions, with an emphasis on mindfulness, yogic interventions, and positive psychology.
(217) 487-6247 View (217) 487-6247
Photo of undefined - Joseph D. Cusumano, Ph.D., PhD, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Joseph D. Cusumano, Ph.D.
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711  (Online Only)
At this stage in my career, ideal clients would be those interested in working with me via the videotherapy platform outside of insurance. I have decided to transition to teletherapy for a variety of reasons, and I have found that it is a highly effective way to work with clients. It gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of when we can meet...days, evenings. $80 for a 45 minute session. My goal is to provide highly affordable, high quality mental health therapy to those I work with. I have a youthful and energetic personality. I am highly interactive during sessions.
At this stage in my career, ideal clients would be those interested in working with me via the videotherapy platform outside of insurance. I have decided to transition to teletherapy for a variety of reasons, and I have found that it is a highly effective way to work with clients. It gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of when we can meet...days, evenings. $80 for a 45 minute session. My goal is to provide highly affordable, high quality mental health therapy to those I work with. I have a youthful and energetic personality. I am highly interactive during sessions.
(217) 335-4675 View (217) 335-4675
Photo of Marcia Plasters, MA, LCPC, BCC, Counselor
Marcia Plasters
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Sometimes in life we just want to be seen and heard by a compassionate and non-judgmental person - someone who listens in a way that makes us feel visible, valued and validated. I create a space where this happens for my clients, fully believing this enables healing from the past, freedom to live in the present and a strong sense of empowerment to reinvent yourself and create the future you desire. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, or trauma, I am here for you. In light of the pandemic, you may just need extra support to learn coping strategies to maintain your best possible emotional health.
Sometimes in life we just want to be seen and heard by a compassionate and non-judgmental person - someone who listens in a way that makes us feel visible, valued and validated. I create a space where this happens for my clients, fully believing this enables healing from the past, freedom to live in the present and a strong sense of empowerment to reinvent yourself and create the future you desire. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, or trauma, I am here for you. In light of the pandemic, you may just need extra support to learn coping strategies to maintain your best possible emotional health.
(217) 284-2957 View (217) 284-2957
Photo of Taylor McDonald, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Taylor McDonald is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has an MS in Counseling from Eastern Illinois University and a BME from University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign. Taylor believes in a collaborative therapeutic relationship where each client feels welcome and heard. She strives to provide quality support and foster a positive, encouraging atmosphere where all clients are empowered to reach their own personal and emotional ambitions and goals. Taylor focuses on establishing trust and building rapport through empathy and positive personal regard for each client.
Taylor McDonald is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has an MS in Counseling from Eastern Illinois University and a BME from University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign. Taylor believes in a collaborative therapeutic relationship where each client feels welcome and heard. She strives to provide quality support and foster a positive, encouraging atmosphere where all clients are empowered to reach their own personal and emotional ambitions and goals. Taylor focuses on establishing trust and building rapport through empathy and positive personal regard for each client.
(217) 207-5980 View (217) 207-5980
Photo of Megan McClure, MS,  LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan McClure
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Megan McClure is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She received an MS in Mental Health Counseling from EIU and a BS in Psychology from SIUE. Megan is a compassionate, supportive, and kind-hearted clinician who thrives on seeing individuals grow and become the best possible version of themselves. She has a huge passion for working with the younger population, including young children and adolescents. Megan loves to make therapy a fun but safe atmosphere to keep children focused and engaged by utilizing play therapy techniques and skills.
Megan McClure is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She received an MS in Mental Health Counseling from EIU and a BS in Psychology from SIUE. Megan is a compassionate, supportive, and kind-hearted clinician who thrives on seeing individuals grow and become the best possible version of themselves. She has a huge passion for working with the younger population, including young children and adolescents. Megan loves to make therapy a fun but safe atmosphere to keep children focused and engaged by utilizing play therapy techniques and skills.
(217) 207-3184 View (217) 207-3184
Photo of Lynette Weiss, LCPC, Counselor
Lynette Weiss
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families who struggle to understand themselves and their place in the world. I strive to provide an empathic space for clients to share their life experiences.
Currently accepting new clients. I work with individuals, couples, and families who struggle to understand themselves and their place in the world. I strive to provide an empathic space for clients to share their life experiences.
(708) 367-6202 View (708) 367-6202
Photo of undefined - Amy Smith-Harris, LCPC, ATR, LLC, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Amy Smith-Harris, LCPC, ATR, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
I will provide you a safe and supportive place to explore your concerns and challenges. Together, we will find solutions and develop your coping skills that will allow you make positive changes in your life. I am a Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been in the mental health field since 1997. I work with clients ages 7 through adult. I work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and art therapy. I also specialize in working with grief and loss issues. I look forward to working together!
I will provide you a safe and supportive place to explore your concerns and challenges. Together, we will find solutions and develop your coping skills that will allow you make positive changes in your life. I am a Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been in the mental health field since 1997. I work with clients ages 7 through adult. I work with individuals, couples and families. I specialize in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused and art therapy. I also specialize in working with grief and loss issues. I look forward to working together!
(217) 215-5001 View (217) 215-5001

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Springfield, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Springfield, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
69% Self Esteem
67% Stress
65% Relationship Issues
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Aetna
69% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Springfield, IL see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
17% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Springfield?

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.