Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL

Photo of Patricia L Brady, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia L Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Hello, and welcome to my profile! If you are reading this, there is a good chance that you are searching for relief from a current issue or situation in your life that is causing you stress. Or maybe you are simply looking to explore where you are at, and where you are going. I am a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience in helping individuals in all walks of life and in a variety of mental health settings which include outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, inpatient substance abuse rehabilitation centers, and the Illinois Department of Corrections.
Hello, and welcome to my profile! If you are reading this, there is a good chance that you are searching for relief from a current issue or situation in your life that is causing you stress. Or maybe you are simply looking to explore where you are at, and where you are going. I am a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience in helping individuals in all walks of life and in a variety of mental health settings which include outpatient clinics, skilled nursing facilities, inpatient substance abuse rehabilitation centers, and the Illinois Department of Corrections.
(815) 889-0488 View (815) 889-0488
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 Jillian Thornton, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillian Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Jillian Thornton is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology and a Master’s of Human Development and Counseling. Jillian is an avid mental health advocate. Jillian applies her knowledge in CBT. DBT, BLT, narrative therapy and existentialism to aid in the change of each person’s awareness, happiness, and to eliminate people, places, and things that do not serve each individual that enters the therapeutic alliance. Outside of work, Jillian loves board games including Scrabble, Trouble, and Mancala. Her favorite pastimes are trying new foods and hanging with loved ones.
Jillian Thornton is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology and a Master’s of Human Development and Counseling. Jillian is an avid mental health advocate. Jillian applies her knowledge in CBT. DBT, BLT, narrative therapy and existentialism to aid in the change of each person’s awareness, happiness, and to eliminate people, places, and things that do not serve each individual that enters the therapeutic alliance. Outside of work, Jillian loves board games including Scrabble, Trouble, and Mancala. Her favorite pastimes are trying new foods and hanging with loved ones.
(815) 944-6140 View (815) 944-6140
Photo of Michelle M. Hessler, MSW, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle M. Hessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Hello. My name is Michelle Hessler and I am, after having worked in public education for over 27 years, pursuing the passion of my professional heart which has always been linked to supporting clients in the intimate setting of private practice. My career began immediately after I completed my Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) which included an emphasis on School Social Work. I worked in a school setting, supporting both Special Education and Regular Education students for approximately 18 years before deciding to return to school myself to complete a second Master's degree in School Leadership (administration).
Hello. My name is Michelle Hessler and I am, after having worked in public education for over 27 years, pursuing the passion of my professional heart which has always been linked to supporting clients in the intimate setting of private practice. My career began immediately after I completed my Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) which included an emphasis on School Social Work. I worked in a school setting, supporting both Special Education and Regular Education students for approximately 18 years before deciding to return to school myself to complete a second Master's degree in School Leadership (administration).
(815) 855-2585 View (815) 855-2585
Photo of Kristin Bailey, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
I am grateful you are taking this first step in your healing journey. I get this shit isn't easy! Do you ever notice when one part of you feels 'off', all of you feels off? This why I take an approach that looks at the whole person and all parts of life. How would it feel to believe in yourself? Feel less drained? It IS possible (read that again), and I am here to support you through this (messy) healing journey!
I am grateful you are taking this first step in your healing journey. I get this shit isn't easy! Do you ever notice when one part of you feels 'off', all of you feels off? This why I take an approach that looks at the whole person and all parts of life. How would it feel to believe in yourself? Feel less drained? It IS possible (read that again), and I am here to support you through this (messy) healing journey!
(815) 240-9159 View (815) 240-9159
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 Kellee Ward,  LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kellee Ward
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Kellee Ward is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University. With extensive experience in both residential and community mental health settings, Kellee brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her practice. She has worked with a diverse range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and adjustment issues. Her background also includes significant experience with substance use disorders and providing support to incarcerated individuals. Kellee is dedicated to offering individualized treatment plans tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Kellee Ward is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University. With extensive experience in both residential and community mental health settings, Kellee brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her practice. She has worked with a diverse range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and adjustment issues. Her background also includes significant experience with substance use disorders and providing support to incarcerated individuals. Kellee is dedicated to offering individualized treatment plans tailored to each client’s unique needs.
(815) 201-8386 View (815) 201-8386
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 “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 might 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 “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 might 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 Dr. Mary Ann Dier Zimmerman, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Mary Ann Dier Zimmerman
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Not accepting new clients
Healing is a unique journey of transformation toward Wholeness, Peacefulness, and Happiness. I listen with full attention to show you compassion, empathy and care in a safe, confidential relationship. Your integrity will be respected. Whether you work on Depression, Grief, Relationships, LGBTQ issues, or Faith/Religious concerns we will journey toward healing of body, mind and spirit. Healing happens in connection, so we can also focus on healing relationships with family and friends, and your support system. You will receive an assessment and together we can explore enhancing and expanding your support systems.
Healing is a unique journey of transformation toward Wholeness, Peacefulness, and Happiness. I listen with full attention to show you compassion, empathy and care in a safe, confidential relationship. Your integrity will be respected. Whether you work on Depression, Grief, Relationships, LGBTQ issues, or Faith/Religious concerns we will journey toward healing of body, mind and spirit. Healing happens in connection, so we can also focus on healing relationships with family and friends, and your support system. You will receive an assessment and together we can explore enhancing and expanding your support systems.
(815) 556-9973 View (815) 556-9973
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 Mary Lacy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Lacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Mary Grace Lacy, MA, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Illinois, specializing in a diverse range of mental health area. With a background in Psychology from Trinity Christian College and a Master’s in Community Counseling from Roosevelt University, Mary Grace is passionate about guiding individuals through their unique mental health journeys. In her therapy practice, she focuses on a wide array of issues, including childhood behavioral issues, school avoidance, relational issues, grief and loss, major life transitions, and mood disorders.
Mary Grace Lacy, MA, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Illinois, specializing in a diverse range of mental health area. With a background in Psychology from Trinity Christian College and a Master’s in Community Counseling from Roosevelt University, Mary Grace is passionate about guiding individuals through their unique mental health journeys. In her therapy practice, she focuses on a wide array of issues, including childhood behavioral issues, school avoidance, relational issues, grief and loss, major life transitions, and mood disorders.
(815) 396-4563 View (815) 396-4563
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 Brandon Douglas, LCPC
Brandon Douglas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Are you ready to start experiencing life rather than just surviving day to day? Maybe symptoms like high anxiety or depression get in your way. It’s hard to thrive when you’re constantly worried about the past or overwhelmed by the present. I’ve seen so many gifted people unable to embrace their full potential. No matter what you’re going through you’re not defined by your diagnosis. With the right support you can overcome the obstacles that keep you from living a joyful and meaningful life. My job is to help you heal and build the confidence to do just that.
Are you ready to start experiencing life rather than just surviving day to day? Maybe symptoms like high anxiety or depression get in your way. It’s hard to thrive when you’re constantly worried about the past or overwhelmed by the present. I’ve seen so many gifted people unable to embrace their full potential. No matter what you’re going through you’re not defined by your diagnosis. With the right support you can overcome the obstacles that keep you from living a joyful and meaningful life. My job is to help you heal and build the confidence to do just that.
(815) 569-0943 View (815) 569-0943
Photo of Alyssa Garcia - ThriveWell Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
ThriveWell Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
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 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 Jeanine A Mellish, LCPC, NARM, Master, Ther, Counselor
Jeanine A Mellish
Counselor, LCPC, NARM, Master, Ther
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Jeanine Mellish supports adult clients and couples on the path of healing and integration. She began her study and practice of various forms of healing arts in 2014, including emotional, relational, and mental health healing. Jeanine specializes in the integration of complex (relational, developmental) trauma, primarily informed by the Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM) developed by Dr. Laurence Heller. She works in person or via video sessions as a Therapist at Jeanine A Mellish PLLC in Bourbonnais, Illinois.
Jeanine Mellish supports adult clients and couples on the path of healing and integration. She began her study and practice of various forms of healing arts in 2014, including emotional, relational, and mental health healing. Jeanine specializes in the integration of complex (relational, developmental) trauma, primarily informed by the Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM) developed by Dr. Laurence Heller. She works in person or via video sessions as a Therapist at Jeanine A Mellish PLLC in Bourbonnais, Illinois.
(779) 228-3105 View (779) 228-3105
Photo of Rhonda Leigh Smarjesse, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Leigh Smarjesse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Over the past 8 years of providing mental health counseling to clients I have found incorporation of Christian principles into my counseling practice can provide clients with a sense of direction and hope. Drawing from the wisdom of Jesus Christ, we all can learn and grow as we work toward better version of ourselves. As a Christian counselor I will work with clients to help them draw closer to Jesus Christ and to learn how Jesus' teachings can help guide clients through their struggles and concerns. Always remember, Jesus is the way, the truth and the light and this can bring us hope.
Over the past 8 years of providing mental health counseling to clients I have found incorporation of Christian principles into my counseling practice can provide clients with a sense of direction and hope. Drawing from the wisdom of Jesus Christ, we all can learn and grow as we work toward better version of ourselves. As a Christian counselor I will work with clients to help them draw closer to Jesus Christ and to learn how Jesus' teachings can help guide clients through their struggles and concerns. Always remember, Jesus is the way, the truth and the light and this can bring us hope.
(815) 281-5676 View (815) 281-5676
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 Taylor Ewing - LifeStance Health, LCPC, Counselor
LifeStance Health
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(855) 609-7569 View (855) 609-7569
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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
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
68% Grief
68% Life Transitions
67% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% 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.