Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL

Photo of Robin Ybarra, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Ybarra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Robin Ybarra, LSW, helps clients focus on their strengths and build skills. She meets clients where they are and focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship. Robin works with clients of all ages, but especially enjoys helping adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and challenges concerning the LGBTQIA+ community. She's also skilled at helping clients who have suffered from the traumatic loss of a loved one. In therapy, Robin uses a strengths-based approach and believes all clients can be resilient with the proper support.
Robin Ybarra, LSW, helps clients focus on their strengths and build skills. She meets clients where they are and focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship. Robin works with clients of all ages, but especially enjoys helping adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and challenges concerning the LGBTQIA+ community. She's also skilled at helping clients who have suffered from the traumatic loss of a loved one. In therapy, Robin uses a strengths-based approach and believes all clients can be resilient with the proper support.
(815) 476-8681 View (815) 476-8681
Photo of Alyssa Garcia, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
When others ask how you're doing, do you reply with a simple “fine” or “I can’t complain,” when in fact you are actually not fine as you have been going through some shit? Whether you're experiencing life changes such as relationship trouble, depression, anxiety, struggling to make friends, finding motivation, or discovering what makes you happy, it can really blow when you feel alone in that. These experiences begin to impact how you start to think and talk to yourself and suddenly, without any warning, you're drowning in a vicious cycle and just want to scream for help! Maybe you feel more alone than ever. Overwhelmed, drained.
When others ask how you're doing, do you reply with a simple “fine” or “I can’t complain,” when in fact you are actually not fine as you have been going through some shit? Whether you're experiencing life changes such as relationship trouble, depression, anxiety, struggling to make friends, finding motivation, or discovering what makes you happy, it can really blow when you feel alone in that. These experiences begin to impact how you start to think and talk to yourself and suddenly, without any warning, you're drowning in a vicious cycle and just want to scream for help! Maybe you feel more alone than ever. Overwhelmed, drained.
(331) 244-0647 View (331) 244-0647
Photo of Ruth Bartman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ruth Bartman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Ruth Bartman, LPC, is non-judgmental, providing a safe and healing space for clients to explore life's challenges. Compassion, empathy, and respect is incorporated, building therapeutic and trusting relationships. She focuses on client's strengths and resilience to assist with creating a healthy, happy, and productive life. Ruth aids clients age 5 and above with grief, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, transgender, and more. She's skilled with end of life concerns with focus on quality of life. Ruth is skillful supporting adolescents and adults with complex trauma.
Ruth Bartman, LPC, is non-judgmental, providing a safe and healing space for clients to explore life's challenges. Compassion, empathy, and respect is incorporated, building therapeutic and trusting relationships. She focuses on client's strengths and resilience to assist with creating a healthy, happy, and productive life. Ruth aids clients age 5 and above with grief, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, transgender, and more. She's skilled with end of life concerns with focus on quality of life. Ruth is skillful supporting adolescents and adults with complex trauma.
(815) 384-1045 View (815) 384-1045
Photo of Andrea Lareau, MSW, MT-BC
Andrea Lareau
MSW, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
We know life is full of ups and down. Sometimes there are more days where you dread getting out of bed, when we hit snooze to avoid the stresses that everyday life brings; our work and/or school responsibilities become daunting, or your marriage is fragile. Anxiety may be preventing you from embracing life to the fullest; maybe you have lost a loved one and need time and space to grieve. You are already taking the first step in helping yourself by looking for a therapist who can met your needs!
We know life is full of ups and down. Sometimes there are more days where you dread getting out of bed, when we hit snooze to avoid the stresses that everyday life brings; our work and/or school responsibilities become daunting, or your marriage is fragile. Anxiety may be preventing you from embracing life to the fullest; maybe you have lost a loved one and need time and space to grieve. You are already taking the first step in helping yourself by looking for a therapist who can met your needs!
(815) 934-8932 View (815) 934-8932
Photo of Kristy Smith, LPC, Counselor
Kristy Smith
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Kristy Smith is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2009. Everyone faces issues from time to time such as depression, anxiety, trouble sleeping and so on. Kristy can provide strategies that can help you to deal with these emotional problems and with the challenges that life presents. Sometimes we continue to use the same patterns of thinking and acting that we adopted when we were children. These sometimes no longer serve us well. Kristy believes in a direct, personalized approach to identifying and tackling the problems in life.
Kristy Smith is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2009. Everyone faces issues from time to time such as depression, anxiety, trouble sleeping and so on. Kristy can provide strategies that can help you to deal with these emotional problems and with the challenges that life presents. Sometimes we continue to use the same patterns of thinking and acting that we adopted when we were children. These sometimes no longer serve us well. Kristy believes in a direct, personalized approach to identifying and tackling the problems in life.
(815) 566-8251 View (815) 566-8251
Photo of Alyssa Garcia - ThriveWell Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
ThriveWell Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, exhausted, and like you "can't even?" No matter what you might be experiencing, from relationship trouble, depression, anxiety, finding motivation, navigating new experiences, it's hard out there in the world and adulting is not all it's cracked up to be. These experiences begin to impact how you start to think and talk to yourself and suddenly, without any warning, you're drowning in this vicious cycle and just want to scream for help. Maybe you feel more alone than ever. You don't have to be.
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, exhausted, and like you "can't even?" No matter what you might be experiencing, from relationship trouble, depression, anxiety, finding motivation, navigating new experiences, it's hard out there in the world and adulting is not all it's cracked up to be. These experiences begin to impact how you start to think and talk to yourself and suddenly, without any warning, you're drowning in this vicious cycle and just want to scream for help. Maybe you feel more alone than ever. You don't have to be.
(815) 473-8636 View (815) 473-8636
Photo of Danica Stull, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danica Stull
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Welcome! I love working with clients on boundary setting, stress, anxiety and depression, parenting, how to improve career/professional functioning, resolving conflict in a healthy way, and much more. My youngest child has complex medical needs, which has given me a real soft spot for adults who are learning to thrive through unchangeable circumstances, as I've been there! My communication style is humorous, confident, and engaged. I will follow your lead but will also offer input, including helpful analogies and explanations of mental health concepts. I welcome disagreement and believe you are the expert on your own life.
Welcome! I love working with clients on boundary setting, stress, anxiety and depression, parenting, how to improve career/professional functioning, resolving conflict in a healthy way, and much more. My youngest child has complex medical needs, which has given me a real soft spot for adults who are learning to thrive through unchangeable circumstances, as I've been there! My communication style is humorous, confident, and engaged. I will follow your lead but will also offer input, including helpful analogies and explanations of mental health concepts. I welcome disagreement and believe you are the expert on your own life.
(815) 446-3200 View (815) 446-3200
Photo of Katelyn Dircks, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katelyn Dircks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Very often in life we go through things which are out of our control. Sometimes it can feel like one thing after another and a constant need to solve problems and navigate tough situations. I love the process of meeting my clients where they're at and walking beside them as they grow and move towards the best version of themselves. I genuinely think being a therapist is the coolest job in the world and I feel very privileged to work with people from many different walks or seasons of life.
Very often in life we go through things which are out of our control. Sometimes it can feel like one thing after another and a constant need to solve problems and navigate tough situations. I love the process of meeting my clients where they're at and walking beside them as they grow and move towards the best version of themselves. I genuinely think being a therapist is the coolest job in the world and I feel very privileged to work with people from many different walks or seasons of life.
(815) 393-1163 View (815) 393-1163
Photo of Janelle Bagley, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janelle Bagley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
First, praise yourself for taking that step to seek help. That's half the battle, so you're already half way there! It isn't easy, asking for help, but you are doing it. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been dedicated to the field of mental health for nearly 17 years now. In my approach I work hard to create an environment that encourages trust and the ability to build a positive rapport. From that foundation blossoms our joint exploration where you will begin to feel empowered to allow personal growth and healing, as you actively engage in your roadmap to satisfaction.
First, praise yourself for taking that step to seek help. That's half the battle, so you're already half way there! It isn't easy, asking for help, but you are doing it. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been dedicated to the field of mental health for nearly 17 years now. In my approach I work hard to create an environment that encourages trust and the ability to build a positive rapport. From that foundation blossoms our joint exploration where you will begin to feel empowered to allow personal growth and healing, as you actively engage in your roadmap to satisfaction.
(815) 205-0453 View (815) 205-0453
Photo of Nicole Roy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Roy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Nicole Roy graduated from Governors State University in 2013 with a Master's Degree in Community Counseling. She has spent time working in various settings including residential treatment and community counseling centers. Nicole uses a variety of treatment approaches tailored to meet the needs of her clients. She typically utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy but also includes aspects of Supportive Therapy and Solution Focused approaches. Nicole helps clients address a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life events.
Nicole Roy graduated from Governors State University in 2013 with a Master's Degree in Community Counseling. She has spent time working in various settings including residential treatment and community counseling centers. Nicole uses a variety of treatment approaches tailored to meet the needs of her clients. She typically utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy but also includes aspects of Supportive Therapy and Solution Focused approaches. Nicole helps clients address a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life events.
(815) 706-2807 View (815) 706-2807
Photo of Jamie J Beedle, MSW
Jamie J Beedle
Licensed Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
I am a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in settings such as: public schools, alternative schools working with children ages preschool through adulthood.
I am a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in settings such as: public schools, alternative schools working with children ages preschool through adulthood.
(815) 605-7593 View (815) 605-7593
Photo of Michelle Flores, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Flores
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Michelle Flores is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Michelle offers clients a safe space to talk when they are struggling to manage life. She is reliable and provides clients with unconditional empathy. Michelle offers her clients the ability to feel comfortable while being vulnerable. Outside of work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her dogs and chickens. She loves to spend time in her vegetable garden that she grows every year. She loves to spend time outside. Her favorite thing to do is read a good book outside when the weather is nice.
Michelle Flores is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Michelle offers clients a safe space to talk when they are struggling to manage life. She is reliable and provides clients with unconditional empathy. Michelle offers her clients the ability to feel comfortable while being vulnerable. Outside of work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her dogs and chickens. She loves to spend time in her vegetable garden that she grows every year. She loves to spend time outside. Her favorite thing to do is read a good book outside when the weather is nice.
(815) 645-9185 View (815) 645-9185
Photo of Robyn Cooper Ramsey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Cooper Ramsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
My name is Robyn, and I’m here to partner with you in discovering answers and transforming painful and confusing experiences. It is my passion and privilege to be able to empower and support adult individuals toward feeling freer and more peaceful.
My name is Robyn, and I’m here to partner with you in discovering answers and transforming painful and confusing experiences. It is my passion and privilege to be able to empower and support adult individuals toward feeling freer and more peaceful.
(708) 367-6432 View (708) 367-6432
Photo of Megan P, LCSW, MSW, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan P
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Now accepting NEW clients! Please EMAIL to set up a new client intake appointment! I understand that all people ultimately strive to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled in their lives, but often times, life can get in the way of itself. I will help you recognize your value, face challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve the therapy outcomes you desire. I offer a warm, welcoming environment, with sessions structured to suit each client's own individual goals and needs.
Now accepting NEW clients! Please EMAIL to set up a new client intake appointment! I understand that all people ultimately strive to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled in their lives, but often times, life can get in the way of itself. I will help you recognize your value, face challenges, overcome obstacles, and achieve the therapy outcomes you desire. I offer a warm, welcoming environment, with sessions structured to suit each client's own individual goals and needs.
(815) 768-2227 View (815) 768-2227
Photo of Maggie Ullrich, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggie Ullrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Navigating life changes, relationships, self-esteem, and personal identity can be difficult while also trying to find your place in the world. Therapy can help explore all of these areas and bolster a sense of personal agency and self-empowerment. I specialize in working with children, teens and young adults. I believe that every person has the natural desire to grow, and that is what therapy with me is all about: personal growth. I hope to help you identify and work through the challenges you are facing, gain insight into barriers, and find solutions to improve your quality of health and relationships.
Navigating life changes, relationships, self-esteem, and personal identity can be difficult while also trying to find your place in the world. Therapy can help explore all of these areas and bolster a sense of personal agency and self-empowerment. I specialize in working with children, teens and young adults. I believe that every person has the natural desire to grow, and that is what therapy with me is all about: personal growth. I hope to help you identify and work through the challenges you are facing, gain insight into barriers, and find solutions to improve your quality of health and relationships.
(779) 213-5322 View (779) 213-5322
Photo of Emily Catherine Benson - Lavender Hope, PLLC, MA, LCPC
Lavender Hope, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
Have you felt tired, stuck, or burnt out for longer than you can remember? Sometimes looking in the mirror is hard because you no longer recognize the person staring back at you. Life has a way of pushing and pulling and it can feel as though you've lost control of your emotions, relationships, and direction in life. You're not sure where to start to make changes. Adding counseling to your schedule can feel like another thing you don't have time to do, but if not now, when? Aren't you ready to step back and asses what is not working to get control of your life back? Together we can take steps toward healing and finding YOU again.
Have you felt tired, stuck, or burnt out for longer than you can remember? Sometimes looking in the mirror is hard because you no longer recognize the person staring back at you. Life has a way of pushing and pulling and it can feel as though you've lost control of your emotions, relationships, and direction in life. You're not sure where to start to make changes. Adding counseling to your schedule can feel like another thing you don't have time to do, but if not now, when? Aren't you ready to step back and asses what is not working to get control of your life back? Together we can take steps toward healing and finding YOU again.
(815) 456-8646 View (815) 456-8646
Photo of Thom Showers, LCPC, Counselor
Thom Showers
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Hi there, thanks for taking the time to read my profile. It takes a lot of courage to seek help when dealing with emotional and mental health challenges. Talking to someone new about yourself can be intimidating. I have experience helping clients with a wide range of needs, such as anxiety, trauma, bipolar, and other problematic areas through a variety of therapeutic interventions. I provide a setting that is comfortable, safe, and completely confidential. The counseling journey should be interactive. Together we’ll process your challenges, trauma, or struggles in order to discover your goals and work toward positive change.
Hi there, thanks for taking the time to read my profile. It takes a lot of courage to seek help when dealing with emotional and mental health challenges. Talking to someone new about yourself can be intimidating. I have experience helping clients with a wide range of needs, such as anxiety, trauma, bipolar, and other problematic areas through a variety of therapeutic interventions. I provide a setting that is comfortable, safe, and completely confidential. The counseling journey should be interactive. Together we’ll process your challenges, trauma, or struggles in order to discover your goals and work toward positive change.
(708) 304-9004 View (708) 304-9004
Photo of Polly M Vaughn - Institute for Social and Emotional Learning, EdD, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Institute for Social and Emotional Learning
Counselor, EdD, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
(815) 768-3134 View (815) 768-3134
Photo of Rob Latiker, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Latiker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Rob Latiker is a Licensed Social Worker who has been practicing since 2008. He has a B.A. from Purdue University and an MSW from Indiana University. Rob's specialty is CBT and MII, which focuses on trauma, anxiety, depression, and cognitive behavioral changes. In addition, Rob's background in law enforcement, military, and social work has afforded him the opportunity to work with various people in variant environments. In his spare time, Rob enjoys cooking, traveling, kayaking, sports, working out, and skydiving.
Rob Latiker is a Licensed Social Worker who has been practicing since 2008. He has a B.A. from Purdue University and an MSW from Indiana University. Rob's specialty is CBT and MII, which focuses on trauma, anxiety, depression, and cognitive behavioral changes. In addition, Rob's background in law enforcement, military, and social work has afforded him the opportunity to work with various people in variant environments. In his spare time, Rob enjoys cooking, traveling, kayaking, sports, working out, and skydiving.
(815) 456-4362 View (815) 456-4362
Photo of Laura L Mills, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Laura L Mills
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Counseling. I have over 12 years of experience counseling adults, children, couples, and families. Often people feel stuck, unhappy, and unable to live a fulfilling life. This is where I want to help.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Counseling. I have over 12 years of experience counseling adults, children, couples, and families. Often people feel stuck, unhappy, and unable to live a fulfilling life. This is where I want to help.
(779) 212-7535 View (779) 212-7535
1

See more therapy options for Bourbonnais

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL who prioritize treating:

99% Anxiety
95% Depression
70% Relationship Issues
70% Trauma and PTSD
66% Grief
66% Self Esteem
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
72% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Bourbonnais?

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.