Therapists in Jefferson County, IN
![Photo of Liz Cooper, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0742d2e-74eb-4e03-901a-17c837b5dfce/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you’re experiencing intense emotional symptoms like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intrusive thoughts/memories, etc. - you deserve freedom! These symptoms & feelings do not have to be your reality anymore. Therapy can be difficult. But it is incredibly rewarding when approached sensitively and intentionally. Freedom is possible.
If you’re experiencing intense emotional symptoms like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intrusive thoughts/memories, etc. - you deserve freedom! These symptoms & feelings do not have to be your reality anymore. Therapy can be difficult. But it is incredibly rewarding when approached sensitively and intentionally. Freedom is possible.
![Photo of Patricia J Corbin, LSW, ACSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe343ce3-9d8d-43b1-8c75-e42fb5679989/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia J Corbin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, ACSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Madison, IN 47250
I have been a therapist for 22 years. I work with adults dealing with depression, trauma, anxiety and couples therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor as well as a gender therapist working with the LGBTQ community.
I have been a therapist for 22 years. I work with adults dealing with depression, trauma, anxiety and couples therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor as well as a gender therapist working with the LGBTQ community.
![Photo of Dr. Teresa M Walters, EdD, MAMFT, LMFT, LAC, DTM, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ffbf950-aa49-40ec-9424-e0397cded980/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Teresa M Walters
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, MAMFT, LMFT, LAC, DTM
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Madison, IN 47250
Relational distress can make life seem unbearable. Family conflict, marital distress, emotional wounds, and parenting concerns can overtake our lives and keep us feeling alone, disconnected, and overwhelmed. But relational distress doesn’t have to dictate the quality of our life. We can and do learn better ways of being with ourselves and others. As a marriage and family therapist and natural relational health practitioner, my specialty is helping individuals, couples, and marriage partners learn new ways of thinking about their relationships that become new ways of being in relationships.
Relational distress can make life seem unbearable. Family conflict, marital distress, emotional wounds, and parenting concerns can overtake our lives and keep us feeling alone, disconnected, and overwhelmed. But relational distress doesn’t have to dictate the quality of our life. We can and do learn better ways of being with ourselves and others. As a marriage and family therapist and natural relational health practitioner, my specialty is helping individuals, couples, and marriage partners learn new ways of thinking about their relationships that become new ways of being in relationships.
![Photo of Michelle Renee Howard - Clifty Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/419f1d57-b262-46fb-b17f-9519f81cb9d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Clifty Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, IN 47250
Everyone deserves healing! Maybe you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms or addiction; I can assist you with learning ways to process and cope with these struggles. Many symptoms of trauma are evident in our behavior patterns. Maybe you have experienced chaotic relationships, struggle with codependence, or feel generally overwhelmed and are not sure why. Allow me to help you uncover what is holding you back from enjoying your life.
Everyone deserves healing! Maybe you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms or addiction; I can assist you with learning ways to process and cope with these struggles. Many symptoms of trauma are evident in our behavior patterns. Maybe you have experienced chaotic relationships, struggle with codependence, or feel generally overwhelmed and are not sure why. Allow me to help you uncover what is holding you back from enjoying your life.
![Photo of Dennis Crandell, LCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc6ed2f1-5bc8-4856-b523-fbc67a404678/1/320x400.png)
Dennis Crandell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Madison, IN 47250 (Online Only)
I am enthusiastic about good mental health. I enjoy helping others live their best lives by improving their health and relational skills. I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Addictions Counselor.
I am enthusiastic about good mental health. I enjoy helping others live their best lives by improving their health and relational skills. I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Addictions Counselor.
![Photo of Chris Edlin, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19c6a298-fca9-4f46-b3b6-b06f0445bfe0/1/320x400.png)
I have had the benefit of working in a local mental health facility for 8+ years. I am excited to bring that experience, training, and knowledge to The Freedom Center. My approach to counseling is that the client and I are on a journey. We are working together to discover and achieve the agreed upon goals. This gives autonomy to the client where they can help set the structure and direction of each session.
I have had the benefit of working in a local mental health facility for 8+ years. I am excited to bring that experience, training, and knowledge to The Freedom Center. My approach to counseling is that the client and I are on a journey. We are working together to discover and achieve the agreed upon goals. This gives autonomy to the client where they can help set the structure and direction of each session.
![Photo of Alisa R Cox - AlisaCox CCC Therapy Ctr. Therapy/Brain Maps/NFB, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50da32b4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
AlisaCox CCC Therapy Ctr. Therapy/Brain Maps/NFB
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, IN 47250
Featuring: * Brain Map/Scans *Neurofeedback *Equine Assisted Therapy*Traditional Counseling*Video Sessions*Indoor/Outdoor Therapy Area's* Perhaps you or your child is down or anxious - maybe unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that life isn't all that it could be. Or could it be that you are struggling with addiction, post traumatic stress or even unclear of what hinders you. In my therapy sessions you will get in touch with your thoughts and feelings regardless of the reason. This can be done while incorporating horses or while incorporating a faith based perspective; the choice is yours.
Featuring: * Brain Map/Scans *Neurofeedback *Equine Assisted Therapy*Traditional Counseling*Video Sessions*Indoor/Outdoor Therapy Area's* Perhaps you or your child is down or anxious - maybe unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that life isn't all that it could be. Or could it be that you are struggling with addiction, post traumatic stress or even unclear of what hinders you. In my therapy sessions you will get in touch with your thoughts and feelings regardless of the reason. This can be done while incorporating horses or while incorporating a faith based perspective; the choice is yours.
![Photo of Cameron Stahlhut, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0b38f3f-6d5f-4aac-bdd4-cd7284d445d7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cameron Stahlhut
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, IN 47250 (Online Only)
My desired families are those that love Jesus and want to grow in their faith. Of course, I would love and accept all clients despite religious/philosophical preferences. I have extensive experience working with couples, individuals/couples coping with trauma, coping with a phase of life, addictions, and men's issues. The single most important attribute I can provide, higher than the philosophy and the techniques of counseling, I genuinely care about every individual that steps into my care. We all need a support system that cares for our needs and can point us in the right direction when we are surrounded by darkness.
My desired families are those that love Jesus and want to grow in their faith. Of course, I would love and accept all clients despite religious/philosophical preferences. I have extensive experience working with couples, individuals/couples coping with trauma, coping with a phase of life, addictions, and men's issues. The single most important attribute I can provide, higher than the philosophy and the techniques of counseling, I genuinely care about every individual that steps into my care. We all need a support system that cares for our needs and can point us in the right direction when we are surrounded by darkness.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Amber Kinney, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96f6c3ca-926d-4486-8501-81669bd19b08/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in helping anxious adults, therapists, entrepreneurs/executives, & adults with ADHD. I teach coping skills to calm the mind & effectively manage emotions. We'll work to reframe anxious thoughts, manage stress, reduce perfectionism, & improve self-esteem. I also empower folks to work on boundaries, burnout, & self-care. I’ll support you with unlearning people-pleasing behaviors, assertive communication, & healing from difficult relationships. We can also work on skills like organization, time management, habit/routine creation, & reducing procrastination.
I specialize in helping anxious adults, therapists, entrepreneurs/executives, & adults with ADHD. I teach coping skills to calm the mind & effectively manage emotions. We'll work to reframe anxious thoughts, manage stress, reduce perfectionism, & improve self-esteem. I also empower folks to work on boundaries, burnout, & self-care. I’ll support you with unlearning people-pleasing behaviors, assertive communication, & healing from difficult relationships. We can also work on skills like organization, time management, habit/routine creation, & reducing procrastination.
![Photo of Christy Vaal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45cd7b65-2e13-41c0-bd4a-791dd8da23f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christy Vaal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ferdinand, IN 47532 (Online Only)
Most of struggle at one time or another with feeling down or anxious. Sometimes those feelings can become overwhelming and may require extra support. Whether it's family crisis, chronic pain/illness, job stress, trauma, relationship conflict, or mental health challenges, you may find yourself feeling isolated, unheard, and invalidated. You might struggle in finding a way to cope. This is where I can help. Through therapy I can provide a fresh perspective and help identify maladaptive patterns that may be interfering with your ability to live a peaceful and fulfilled life.
Most of struggle at one time or another with feeling down or anxious. Sometimes those feelings can become overwhelming and may require extra support. Whether it's family crisis, chronic pain/illness, job stress, trauma, relationship conflict, or mental health challenges, you may find yourself feeling isolated, unheard, and invalidated. You might struggle in finding a way to cope. This is where I can help. Through therapy I can provide a fresh perspective and help identify maladaptive patterns that may be interfering with your ability to live a peaceful and fulfilled life.
![Photo of Eric A Schwan, LMHCA-T, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23908899-0397-4cee-9818-4456c6402403/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our thoughts, fears, anxieties, and unfulfilled expectations can be obstacles to living the life we want to have and experience authentically. The therapeutic process supports and assists us in identifying, and better understanding all parts of our authentic selves. I listen and hold space for your individual situation. To hear how you’re feeling and understand the challenges that are impacting you daily. My intention is that we work together to provide a safe and supportive atmosphere where you can explore issues that may be difficult to talk about at sufficient length elsewhere while reaching healthy outcomes.
Our thoughts, fears, anxieties, and unfulfilled expectations can be obstacles to living the life we want to have and experience authentically. The therapeutic process supports and assists us in identifying, and better understanding all parts of our authentic selves. I listen and hold space for your individual situation. To hear how you’re feeling and understand the challenges that are impacting you daily. My intention is that we work together to provide a safe and supportive atmosphere where you can explore issues that may be difficult to talk about at sufficient length elsewhere while reaching healthy outcomes.
![Photo of Jill Frame, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3ad3e2e-1c67-4800-beb4-c4099651ad71/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are looking for a results-oriented therapist, you've come to the right place! I focus on what you are already doing well and build on it. I also help you look at your difficulties from different perspectives. A heads up, I’m not the typical talk therapist. I’m not interested in you sitting on the couch with me for years. I want you to jump all in, do the hard work, heal well and get on with living your life.
If you are looking for a results-oriented therapist, you've come to the right place! I focus on what you are already doing well and build on it. I also help you look at your difficulties from different perspectives. A heads up, I’m not the typical talk therapist. I’m not interested in you sitting on the couch with me for years. I want you to jump all in, do the hard work, heal well and get on with living your life.
![Photo of Andrea Ford, MA, LPC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8743f08a-3268-499a-83b6-d2809466a266/1/320x400.jpeg)
We offer a safe environment for you to share your story. People describe me as empathetic, compassionate and relational. As we work together, you can develop healthier coping skills and work through unresolved issues. I value the client/therapist relationship and provide space for clients to explore and give meanings to unconscious patterns of behavior.
We offer a safe environment for you to share your story. People describe me as empathetic, compassionate and relational. As we work together, you can develop healthier coping skills and work through unresolved issues. I value the client/therapist relationship and provide space for clients to explore and give meanings to unconscious patterns of behavior.
![Photo of Carissa Goff, LCAC-A, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef92d564-f3ba-4a0d-a7ed-1dfad3ec9694/1/320x400.jpeg)
It is my privilege to offer my clients a uniquely better experience, individually designed to ensure a future of good health, happiness, and positive life-change that brings pride and joy to them and to their families. I am honored to stand with my clients as they restore lost hope, dreams, and relationships throughout their journeys of wellness and recovery!
It is my privilege to offer my clients a uniquely better experience, individually designed to ensure a future of good health, happiness, and positive life-change that brings pride and joy to them and to their families. I am honored to stand with my clients as they restore lost hope, dreams, and relationships throughout their journeys of wellness and recovery!
![Photo of Angela C Heinzman, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/496aec3f-e83d-4525-9261-1735b0ea41a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ever feel like you're stuck? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. Maybe your relationships or job have been affected. Or maybe you don't know what's wrong, you just don't feel like yourself. You're not alone! Many people struggle or reach a point where they don't know what to do to feel better. I have a passion for helping others overcome the barriers that prevent them from living life to the fullest. We can work together to identify what you want to change and how to do it.
Ever feel like you're stuck? Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. Maybe your relationships or job have been affected. Or maybe you don't know what's wrong, you just don't feel like yourself. You're not alone! Many people struggle or reach a point where they don't know what to do to feel better. I have a passion for helping others overcome the barriers that prevent them from living life to the fullest. We can work together to identify what you want to change and how to do it.
![Photo of Matthew A Stach, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55bb24c5-84b7-4db6-a874-8198e78c4809/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am motivated by a genuine curiosity to understand each person's unique perspective, and I believed that successful therapy begins with providing individuals a space to be authentic and vulnerable. I view counseling as a conversation about your story, a process to empower you to make meaning of your experiences, challenges and ambitions. I believe that all clients have the capacity for self-discovery and problem solving. Therefore, I work collaboratively with adolescents and adults to improve emotional control, develop self-acceptance, and cultivate fulfilling relationships.
I am motivated by a genuine curiosity to understand each person's unique perspective, and I believed that successful therapy begins with providing individuals a space to be authentic and vulnerable. I view counseling as a conversation about your story, a process to empower you to make meaning of your experiences, challenges and ambitions. I believe that all clients have the capacity for self-discovery and problem solving. Therefore, I work collaboratively with adolescents and adults to improve emotional control, develop self-acceptance, and cultivate fulfilling relationships.
![Photo of Rachel Ackerman, LMHC-A, LPC, ATR-BC, PMH-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfb85618-697a-46ae-b3ab-cf8064cf329a/1/320x400.png)
My approach as a board certified art therapist is to use creative and sensory exploration to navigate deeper feelings when words are difficult to articulate. Art therapy is ageless; any age can benefit with no artistic skill required! Some challenges I help children process through include: anxiety, trauma, ADHD, school related issues, and divorce. I also offer the option of traditional talk therapy to work through parenting, pregnancy, anxiety, depression, and life changes. Parents talk through discipline, bonding, anger, and building trust with their kids. Tele-therapy is also available for Indiana and Illinois residents.
My approach as a board certified art therapist is to use creative and sensory exploration to navigate deeper feelings when words are difficult to articulate. Art therapy is ageless; any age can benefit with no artistic skill required! Some challenges I help children process through include: anxiety, trauma, ADHD, school related issues, and divorce. I also offer the option of traditional talk therapy to work through parenting, pregnancy, anxiety, depression, and life changes. Parents talk through discipline, bonding, anger, and building trust with their kids. Tele-therapy is also available for Indiana and Illinois residents.
![Photo of Edwin L Shurig, MAMFT, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7dbc7648-8f5c-4ab6-b125-5e3806b4f772/3/320x400.jpeg)
Edwin Shurig is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor working with individuals, couples, and families, ranging from ages 3 to 83. Edwin graduated from Christian Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. Central to his work is the idea that most problems can be solved through curiosity and compassion. With over 15 years in clinical practice, Mr. Shurig is experienced with working on issues including, but not limited to, Addiction, Domestic Violence, Grief, Positive Parenting, Play Therapy, and Couples Counseling.
Edwin Shurig is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor working with individuals, couples, and families, ranging from ages 3 to 83. Edwin graduated from Christian Theological Seminary with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. Central to his work is the idea that most problems can be solved through curiosity and compassion. With over 15 years in clinical practice, Mr. Shurig is experienced with working on issues including, but not limited to, Addiction, Domestic Violence, Grief, Positive Parenting, Play Therapy, and Couples Counseling.
![Photo of Kasandra Hogue - Transformation Life Counseling, LLC, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6bc2441-9a76-44f0-94f6-ffdb8573a68d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Transformation Life Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jeffersonville, IN 47130
Do you feel like life is overwhelming? Battling negative or intrusive thoughts rehearsing through your mind repeatedly? Dealing with complex relationship issues? Having uncontrollable feelings that cause a negative impact on your life or others around you? Unprocessed grief or loss? Looking for direction? Let me partner with you to navigate through life’s most difficult or challenging moments. We will begin the journey of healing together in a safe and supportive environment to transform your life!
Do you feel like life is overwhelming? Battling negative or intrusive thoughts rehearsing through your mind repeatedly? Dealing with complex relationship issues? Having uncontrollable feelings that cause a negative impact on your life or others around you? Unprocessed grief or loss? Looking for direction? Let me partner with you to navigate through life’s most difficult or challenging moments. We will begin the journey of healing together in a safe and supportive environment to transform your life!
![Photo of Kimberly S Winkel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1c87953-2394-40ef-81c0-6cf6c49a406e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly S Winkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240 (Online Only)
If you're feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from yourself, I can help. I'm passionate about helping people overcome pain and live their best lives. I have years of experience listening to others and my priority is to understand the challenges and work to integrate solutions. Let's work together to find a new perspective and move forward. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
If you're feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from yourself, I can help. I'm passionate about helping people overcome pain and live their best lives. I have years of experience listening to others and my priority is to understand the challenges and work to integrate solutions. Let's work together to find a new perspective and move forward. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
See more therapy options for Jefferson County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Jefferson County, IN
< 10
Therapists in Jefferson County, IN who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
88% | Divorce |
88% | Family Conflict |
75% | Addiction |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Sexual Abuse |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
80% | Optum |
60% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Jefferson County, IN see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Jefferson County?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.