Therapists in Pikeville, KY

Photo of Christy L Howard, MSSW, LCSW, RPTS, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy L Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, RPTS, CAS
Verified Verified
Pikeville, KY 41501  (Online Only)
My experience includes a wide range of treatment issues for both adults and children. I have experience in treating childhood behavioral issues from ADHD, Anxiety, Grief, Depression, Mood Disorders, Developmental Delays, Disruptive behaviors and Oppositional behaviors. I have extensive experience in helping children heal from trauma related issues such as Adjustment Disorder, Divorce, Anxiety, RAD, PTSD, and other Diagnoses resulting from emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have participated in specialized experience and training with the young child population from birth to age 5 and utilize the Ages and Stages Questionnaires to screen for developmental delays in children ages 6 and under.
My experience includes a wide range of treatment issues for both adults and children. I have experience in treating childhood behavioral issues from ADHD, Anxiety, Grief, Depression, Mood Disorders, Developmental Delays, Disruptive behaviors and Oppositional behaviors. I have extensive experience in helping children heal from trauma related issues such as Adjustment Disorder, Divorce, Anxiety, RAD, PTSD, and other Diagnoses resulting from emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. I have participated in specialized experience and training with the young child population from birth to age 5 and utilize the Ages and Stages Questionnaires to screen for developmental delays in children ages 6 and under.
(502) 804-5492 View (502) 804-5492
Photo of Mark Hatfield, MA, LPCC
Mark Hatfield
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pikeville, KY 41501
I have helped people with a variety of issues, that include grief/loss, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, dual disorders, and trauma based illnesses. I also have experience working with existential life issues and career/work problems. My counseling style often involves the use of imagination, creative introspection, analysis, mindfulness, and cognitive approaches to help address self-defeating thoughts and unproductive behavioral patterns.
I have helped people with a variety of issues, that include grief/loss, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, dual disorders, and trauma based illnesses. I also have experience working with existential life issues and career/work problems. My counseling style often involves the use of imagination, creative introspection, analysis, mindfulness, and cognitive approaches to help address self-defeating thoughts and unproductive behavioral patterns.
(606) 342-7666 View (606) 342-7666
Photo of Jeremy S Coleman, LPCA
Jeremy S Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikeville, KY 41501
I provide services to people who are seeking Identity Counseling, Trauma and Grief Counseling, Mood and Anxiety Counseling, and more. I foster a safe space for people who identify as LGBTQ+, LGBTQ+ allies, and people who are seeking behavioral health services. The core values for ODCC are Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence (PRIDE).
I provide services to people who are seeking Identity Counseling, Trauma and Grief Counseling, Mood and Anxiety Counseling, and more. I foster a safe space for people who identify as LGBTQ+, LGBTQ+ allies, and people who are seeking behavioral health services. The core values for ODCC are Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence (PRIDE).
(606) 206-8145 View (606) 206-8145
Photo of Brittany Hunsaker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Hunsaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pikeville, KY 41501  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling burnt out or overwhelmed? Do you find yourself being irritable and on edge with the people you care about? Do you struggle with feelings of inadequacy and shame? Are the difficult experiences and traumas of your past interfering with your life in the here and now? Do you find yourself living your life in survival mode? It's been a rough few years. For some of us, it's been a rough few decades. It makes sense that you find it difficult to cope. It makes sense that your living your life in survival mode. But if you're here, I'm guessing that's not working for you anymore. I'd like to help with that.
Have you been feeling burnt out or overwhelmed? Do you find yourself being irritable and on edge with the people you care about? Do you struggle with feelings of inadequacy and shame? Are the difficult experiences and traumas of your past interfering with your life in the here and now? Do you find yourself living your life in survival mode? It's been a rough few years. For some of us, it's been a rough few decades. It makes sense that you find it difficult to cope. It makes sense that your living your life in survival mode. But if you're here, I'm guessing that's not working for you anymore. I'd like to help with that.
(606) 731-2863 View (606) 731-2863
Photo of Sheena Scott, LPCA , MEd , TCM, Counselor
Sheena Scott
Counselor, LPCA , MEd , TCM
Verified Verified
Pikeville, KY 41501  (Online Only)
I have been working as a therapist for 12 years, after I accepted my first job as an in home therapist. I have been working independently since 2016.I have seen a broad spectrum of clients throughout my time as a mental health counselor; children, adolescents, and adults. In each spectrum I have assisted the clients in substance abuse, anxiety , depression, and bi-polar. My efforts as a clincincan is to assist each individual in finding strength and power to make the changes discussed during sessions, to improve their daily lives. I enjoy working with each individual to learn skills to attack each day to make it their best.
I have been working as a therapist for 12 years, after I accepted my first job as an in home therapist. I have been working independently since 2016.I have seen a broad spectrum of clients throughout my time as a mental health counselor; children, adolescents, and adults. In each spectrum I have assisted the clients in substance abuse, anxiety , depression, and bi-polar. My efforts as a clincincan is to assist each individual in finding strength and power to make the changes discussed during sessions, to improve their daily lives. I enjoy working with each individual to learn skills to attack each day to make it their best.
(606) 519-0940 View (606) 519-0940
Photo of Shawnna Mills - Peaceful Solutions Counseling Telehealth , LCSW, LPCC, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peaceful Solutions Counseling Telehealth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikeville, KY 41501  (Online Only)
We are a group of professional therapists that have a deep passion for helping others discover who they truly are, overcome emotional difficulties, recover from substance abuse, learn to live to their potential, and enjoy their lives. What motivates us to see people embrace the changes that they know are required to live the life they want to be living. We will help you identify the barriers that stand in your way, and then help you find effective ways to move beyond them, to accomplish the goals you set for yourself. Our physical office is located in Louisville KY, however we provide Telehealth services throughout the state.
We are a group of professional therapists that have a deep passion for helping others discover who they truly are, overcome emotional difficulties, recover from substance abuse, learn to live to their potential, and enjoy their lives. What motivates us to see people embrace the changes that they know are required to live the life they want to be living. We will help you identify the barriers that stand in your way, and then help you find effective ways to move beyond them, to accomplish the goals you set for yourself. Our physical office is located in Louisville KY, however we provide Telehealth services throughout the state.
(502) 333-0218 View (502) 333-0218
Photo of Elizabeth J Thompson, MEd, LPCA, NCC, Counselor
Elizabeth J Thompson
Counselor, MEd, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pikeville, KY 41501
You're tired of trying to navigate a world that wasn't designed for you. Maybe you've had negative counseling experiences before, leaving sessions feeling misunderstood and unsupported. You want to try again. Navigating a neurotypical world, transitioning into civilian life, or carrying the weight of trauma can be isolating and make life harder than it needs to be. I strive to help those who have experienced trauma, military/veterans, and adults with ADHD and/or Autism. You're the expert on yourself - my job is to help you reconnect with and trust your inner voice.
You're tired of trying to navigate a world that wasn't designed for you. Maybe you've had negative counseling experiences before, leaving sessions feeling misunderstood and unsupported. You want to try again. Navigating a neurotypical world, transitioning into civilian life, or carrying the weight of trauma can be isolating and make life harder than it needs to be. I strive to help those who have experienced trauma, military/veterans, and adults with ADHD and/or Autism. You're the expert on yourself - my job is to help you reconnect with and trust your inner voice.
(859) 651-7041 View (859) 651-7041
Photo of Judy Jepsen, LPCA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Judy Jepsen
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Pikeville, KY 41501  (Online Only)
Clients come to therapy for a variety of reasons, but the result they want is the same. They want change, something different. Sometimes, those of us who are successful in other areas of life struggle to make and sustain change in the areas most personal, most important to us. They are out of tools and ideas, that's where therapy comes in. A good therapist not only listens, but helps clarify goals. They help clients understand and accept their own thoughts and feelings, while keeping the goal of change in sight. A good therapist draws on a client's strengths while also helping them develop new strategies and coping skills.
Clients come to therapy for a variety of reasons, but the result they want is the same. They want change, something different. Sometimes, those of us who are successful in other areas of life struggle to make and sustain change in the areas most personal, most important to us. They are out of tools and ideas, that's where therapy comes in. A good therapist not only listens, but helps clarify goals. They help clients understand and accept their own thoughts and feelings, while keeping the goal of change in sight. A good therapist draws on a client's strengths while also helping them develop new strategies and coping skills.
(859) 762-6083 View (859) 762-6083
Photo of Marlene Belew Huff, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marlene Belew Huff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikeville, KY 41501
Life is about collecting good memories! If you are ready to make a change or need someone to talk with about issues you cannot get off your mind, psychotherapy may be right for you. I am empathetic and engaging and believe that you should leave a therapy session, feeling hopeful that you can manage any challenges that come your way. If you are in the midst of a life transition or just not sure of the direction that you will take next, I'd like to speak with you. My specialty areas are working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, or managing an unsure future. I hope that you'll commit to enhancing your life today!
Life is about collecting good memories! If you are ready to make a change or need someone to talk with about issues you cannot get off your mind, psychotherapy may be right for you. I am empathetic and engaging and believe that you should leave a therapy session, feeling hopeful that you can manage any challenges that come your way. If you are in the midst of a life transition or just not sure of the direction that you will take next, I'd like to speak with you. My specialty areas are working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, or managing an unsure future. I hope that you'll commit to enhancing your life today!
(859) 353-6616 View (859) 353-6616
Photo of Robert Kyle May - Open Doors Counseling Center, LLC, MEd, LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Open Doors Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikeville, KY 41501
We provide services to people who are seeking Identity Counseling, Trauma and Grief Counseling, Mood and Anxiety Counseling, and more. We foster a safe space for people who identify as LGBTQ+, LGBTQ+ allies, and people who are seeking behavioral health services. The core values for ODCC are Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence (PRIDE).
We provide services to people who are seeking Identity Counseling, Trauma and Grief Counseling, Mood and Anxiety Counseling, and more. We foster a safe space for people who identify as LGBTQ+, LGBTQ+ allies, and people who are seeking behavioral health services. The core values for ODCC are Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence (PRIDE).
(859) 780-8746 View (859) 780-8746
Photo of David R Baisden, MEd, LPCC
David R Baisden
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikeville, KY 41501
The path to health and wellness is different for each of us. Having a safe space to process our experiences and emotions can be the pivotal turning point we need to gain the satisfaction, and fulfillment we so desperately crave. While every journey is unique, the desired goal is generally universal: implementing meaningful change toward a deeper awareness of ourselves as we navigate life's challenges. Together, we can find your path and walk it together.
The path to health and wellness is different for each of us. Having a safe space to process our experiences and emotions can be the pivotal turning point we need to gain the satisfaction, and fulfillment we so desperately crave. While every journey is unique, the desired goal is generally universal: implementing meaningful change toward a deeper awareness of ourselves as we navigate life's challenges. Together, we can find your path and walk it together.
(606) 731-0794 View (606) 731-0794
Photo of Robert Kyle May, MEd, LPCC-S
Robert Kyle May
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikeville, KY 41501
Not accepting new clients
I provide services to people who are seeking Identity Counseling, Trauma and Grief Counseling, Mood and Anxiety Counseling, and more. I foster a safe space for people who identify as LGBTQ+, LGBTQ+ allies, and people who are seeking behavioral health services. The core values for ODCC are Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence (PRIDE).
I provide services to people who are seeking Identity Counseling, Trauma and Grief Counseling, Mood and Anxiety Counseling, and more. I foster a safe space for people who identify as LGBTQ+, LGBTQ+ allies, and people who are seeking behavioral health services. The core values for ODCC are Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence (PRIDE).
(606) 342-7385 View (606) 342-7385

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amanda Ferguson, LPCC
Amanda Ferguson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Kimper, KY 41539  (Online Only)
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, therapy and motivational interviewing. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don’t believe in stigmatizing labels.
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, therapy and motivational interviewing. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don’t believe in stigmatizing labels.
(606) 488-0350 View (606) 488-0350

Online Therapists

Photo of Kimberly Billings, LPCC, Counselor
Kimberly Billings
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475  (Online Only)
I am Kimberly Billings, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with 23+ years of clinical experience. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming life's challenges. I utilize several approaches to therapy: Recognizing the influence our beliefs, thoughts, and feelings have as we respond to struggles; Working together as clinician and client to discover ideas about change; Finding and putting into action solutions that minimize time spent struggling with distress.
I am Kimberly Billings, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with 23+ years of clinical experience. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming life's challenges. I utilize several approaches to therapy: Recognizing the influence our beliefs, thoughts, and feelings have as we respond to struggles; Working together as clinician and client to discover ideas about change; Finding and putting into action solutions that minimize time spent struggling with distress.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Natalie Carter, LPCC
Natalie Carter
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisa, KY 41230  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in young adult phase of life problems related to growing family and changing family dynamics, but I truly enjoy the therapeutic relationship and seeing the strength clients are able to achieve with therapeutic support.
I have a particular interest in young adult phase of life problems related to growing family and changing family dynamics, but I truly enjoy the therapeutic relationship and seeing the strength clients are able to achieve with therapeutic support.
(606) 268-1469 View (606) 268-1469
Photo of Peter B Smith, LPCC
Peter B Smith
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grayson, KY 41143
If you are on this page you’re likely “shopping” therapists. If you're looking for an EMDR therapist look no further. If you are an adult or teen struggling with the stress and pressure of life, difficulty with depression or anxiety, a veteran, or perhaps suffering with PTSD, then I might be able to help. Perhaps you struggle with body image issues, maybe life is just overwhelming, people reach out to me for a vast amount of reasons and I don't know if it's a good fit until you reach out. So why would you want to contact me?
If you are on this page you’re likely “shopping” therapists. If you're looking for an EMDR therapist look no further. If you are an adult or teen struggling with the stress and pressure of life, difficulty with depression or anxiety, a veteran, or perhaps suffering with PTSD, then I might be able to help. Perhaps you struggle with body image issues, maybe life is just overwhelming, people reach out to me for a vast amount of reasons and I don't know if it's a good fit until you reach out. So why would you want to contact me?
(606) 366-7573 View (606) 366-7573
Photo of Esther Malm, Marriage & Family Therapist
Esther Malm
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475  (Online Only)
Esther is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Kentucky and Georgia. She is also a PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator for premarital - and post marital growth. She uses multiple therapeutic frameworks and approaches to conceptualize and support people's unique need for growth and healing. Such approaches include attachment framework, emotionally focused concepts, experiential and solution focused concepts. These approaches are utilized on a foundation of respect for culture and life experiences. Esther believes that we are all unique and worthy to be seen, heard, believed, to experience emotions, and to pursue healing and growth.
Esther is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Kentucky and Georgia. She is also a PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator for premarital - and post marital growth. She uses multiple therapeutic frameworks and approaches to conceptualize and support people's unique need for growth and healing. Such approaches include attachment framework, emotionally focused concepts, experiential and solution focused concepts. These approaches are utilized on a foundation of respect for culture and life experiences. Esther believes that we are all unique and worthy to be seen, heard, believed, to experience emotions, and to pursue healing and growth.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Joseph Paul Campbell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Paul Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
London, KY 40741
Now Accepting New Clients!, I am a therapist in London, KY. Currently, I am Licensed in Kentucky to provide mental health/substance abuse services as an LCSW- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (I provide CSW supervision)and TCADC-Temp Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I am also an Autonomously Certified Batterers Intervention Provider(Domestic Violence Services) for Kentucky, eligible to provide supervision to associate BIP while also being approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing to provide mental health/substance abuse evaluations. I currently serve adults, adolescents, and children(7+).
Now Accepting New Clients!, I am a therapist in London, KY. Currently, I am Licensed in Kentucky to provide mental health/substance abuse services as an LCSW- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (I provide CSW supervision)and TCADC-Temp Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I am also an Autonomously Certified Batterers Intervention Provider(Domestic Violence Services) for Kentucky, eligible to provide supervision to associate BIP while also being approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing to provide mental health/substance abuse evaluations. I currently serve adults, adolescents, and children(7+).
(606) 731-1128 View (606) 731-1128
Photo of Sharekia Tunstull, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharekia Tunstull
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Sharekia Tunstull and I love engaging with others. My sole goal is to help! I have always wanted to make a difference in the lives of others and it excites me when I see them progress! I love to help others conquer life's transitions, and sort through obstacles that may get in the way of their goals. I love to watch people succeed!
Hello! My name is Sharekia Tunstull and I love engaging with others. My sole goal is to help! I have always wanted to make a difference in the lives of others and it excites me when I see them progress! I love to help others conquer life's transitions, and sort through obstacles that may get in the way of their goals. I love to watch people succeed!
(859) 765-1147 View (859) 765-1147
Photo of Christopher Rains, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Rains
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, KY 40475  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Kentucky with seven years of combined therapy and case management experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, and codependency. I look at the bigger picture of your life and use a collaborative approach to figure out what areas we can work on helping you change to improve the quality of your life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Kentucky with seven years of combined therapy and case management experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, and codependency. I look at the bigger picture of your life and use a collaborative approach to figure out what areas we can work on helping you change to improve the quality of your life.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Pikeville, KY

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in Pikeville, KY who prioritize treating:

92% Trauma and PTSD
83% Depression
83% Anxiety
83% ADHD
83% Coping Skills
83% Self Esteem
67% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Medicaid
73% Aetna
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Pikeville, KY see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Pikeville?

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.