Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

Photo of Dr. Sonia S. Blauvelt, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sonia S. Blauvelt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes the problem isn’t whether you can overcome, it’s that the world is overcoming you. In our changing society, many individuals are finding themselves confronted with painful new emotions, entangled with their thoughts, or have experienced a deterioration in wellness. I will utilize your strengths to guide you through this time and equip you with your own set of healing tools. My ultimate goal is to create a safer, equitable, and inclusive future.
Sometimes the problem isn’t whether you can overcome, it’s that the world is overcoming you. In our changing society, many individuals are finding themselves confronted with painful new emotions, entangled with their thoughts, or have experienced a deterioration in wellness. I will utilize your strengths to guide you through this time and equip you with your own set of healing tools. My ultimate goal is to create a safer, equitable, and inclusive future.
(225) 465-0961 View (225) 465-0961
Photo of Wanda Harris, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Wanda Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816  (Online Only)
I’m Wanda Harris, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in both Louisiana and Mississippi with 28 years of experience as a therapist. I’m also an Ordained Minister and College Professor. I typically work with adults and some teens, at least 16 yrs of age. At this time, I don’t have an age limit. I work with both men and women, and I have experience working with dually diagnosed clients with both mood and/or anxiety disorders and substance use issues.
I’m Wanda Harris, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in both Louisiana and Mississippi with 28 years of experience as a therapist. I’m also an Ordained Minister and College Professor. I typically work with adults and some teens, at least 16 yrs of age. At this time, I don’t have an age limit. I work with both men and women, and I have experience working with dually diagnosed clients with both mood and/or anxiety disorders and substance use issues.
(225) 577-6346 View (225) 577-6346
Photo of Beth Mahaffey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Mahaffey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking counseling can be a challenging step. There are times in our life we realize our feelings are too overwhelming to deal with on our own. I will provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to explore your feelings. My goal is to help you find the coping skills you need to balance your life.
Seeking counseling can be a challenging step. There are times in our life we realize our feelings are too overwhelming to deal with on our own. I will provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to explore your feelings. My goal is to help you find the coping skills you need to balance your life.
(225) 412-2115 View (225) 412-2115
Photo of Mary Nunnery Williams, MA,  LPC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Nunnery Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
In my therapeutic practice, I focus on creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment that fosters growth and self-discovery for mental health clients. My approach is client-centered, tailoring sessions to meet each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Clients work on recognizing and managing their emotions more effectively, aiming for greater emotional stability and resilience. As a therapist, I provide support for clients dealing with grief and loss, helping them navigate through the stages of grief and find ways to honor and remember their loved ones.
In my therapeutic practice, I focus on creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment that fosters growth and self-discovery for mental health clients. My approach is client-centered, tailoring sessions to meet each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Clients work on recognizing and managing their emotions more effectively, aiming for greater emotional stability and resilience. As a therapist, I provide support for clients dealing with grief and loss, helping them navigate through the stages of grief and find ways to honor and remember their loved ones.
(225) 457-3578 View (225) 457-3578
Julie Ellsworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Julie Ellsworth is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience treating trauma, depression, anxiety, and other life challenges. My goal is to help you heal, grow, and find your true authentic self in a peaceful, nonjudgmental environment. My approach is warm and non-judgmental. My intention is to partner with my clients on their journey of healing and wellness. I am a Certified EMDR therapist, trained in Internal Family Systems and Equine Assisted therapies. I specialize in treating Complex trauma.
Julie Ellsworth is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience treating trauma, depression, anxiety, and other life challenges. My goal is to help you heal, grow, and find your true authentic self in a peaceful, nonjudgmental environment. My approach is warm and non-judgmental. My intention is to partner with my clients on their journey of healing and wellness. I am a Certified EMDR therapist, trained in Internal Family Systems and Equine Assisted therapies. I specialize in treating Complex trauma.
(225) 414-6671 View (225) 414-6671
Photo of Sarah M Tipton, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah M Tipton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Not accepting new clients
Hello, my name is Sarah Mecholsky Tipton and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters in Community Counseling from LSU. I am passionate about the work I do, and what fuels my passion is my clients. I see counseling as a collaborative process where I work together with you to explore and define the present problem situations. I value the insight and perspective each of my clients brings to the therapy room, since each person provides invaluable insights into their own life. I take a person-centered approach and will employ an eclectic counseling style, dependent on what each client needs.
Hello, my name is Sarah Mecholsky Tipton and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters in Community Counseling from LSU. I am passionate about the work I do, and what fuels my passion is my clients. I see counseling as a collaborative process where I work together with you to explore and define the present problem situations. I value the insight and perspective each of my clients brings to the therapy room, since each person provides invaluable insights into their own life. I take a person-centered approach and will employ an eclectic counseling style, dependent on what each client needs.
(225) 425-3705 View (225) 425-3705
Photo of Rose M Ford, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rose M Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
It takes courage to ask for help and as a therapist I respect and honor that courage. I would consider it a privilege to work alongside you as you navigate difficult and possibly confusing experiences in your life. I am committed to providing a non-judgmental, warm and inviting space to allow you to be your most authentic self as you work to gain insight that can help you find your unique and individual path to a healthy and enriched life. I would be honored to meet you where you are and help you get where you want to be.
It takes courage to ask for help and as a therapist I respect and honor that courage. I would consider it a privilege to work alongside you as you navigate difficult and possibly confusing experiences in your life. I am committed to providing a non-judgmental, warm and inviting space to allow you to be your most authentic self as you work to gain insight that can help you find your unique and individual path to a healthy and enriched life. I would be honored to meet you where you are and help you get where you want to be.
(225) 414-6720 View (225) 414-6720
Photo of Dionne C Smith, MS, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dionne C Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70815
Life’s challenges can often lead to feelings of discouragement, feeling overwhelm, and disappointment. The good news is that hope, and inner growth is just a phone call away. Together, we can navigate through the murky waters of life, while building a new foundation of emotional wellness and freedom.
Life’s challenges can often lead to feelings of discouragement, feeling overwhelm, and disappointment. The good news is that hope, and inner growth is just a phone call away. Together, we can navigate through the murky waters of life, while building a new foundation of emotional wellness and freedom.
(225) 230-2591 View (225) 230-2591
Photo of Brittani N Monroe, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittani N Monroe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Louisiana with over seven years of experience in mental health counseling. I approach therapy from a person-centered lens but integrate other counseling styles based on each clients’ individual need. I employ a collaborative approach where I work with clients to explore and define their problems as each client provides invaluable insight into their own life. I am committed to assisting clients in pushing past their fears and gaining new perspectives that will enhance their life, bring new insights, hope, and meaning.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Louisiana with over seven years of experience in mental health counseling. I approach therapy from a person-centered lens but integrate other counseling styles based on each clients’ individual need. I employ a collaborative approach where I work with clients to explore and define their problems as each client provides invaluable insight into their own life. I am committed to assisting clients in pushing past their fears and gaining new perspectives that will enhance their life, bring new insights, hope, and meaning.
(225) 800-3620 View (225) 800-3620
Photo of Giselle Chiasson Saia, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Giselle Chiasson Saia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
I am a Licensed Professional Christian Counselor (LPC) specializing in relational and developmental trauma recovery, PTSD/childhood abuse recovery, healing the child within and family of origin healing. I use a story informed trauma treatment model (SITT) . I practice from a "wounded healer" perspective as I have my own testimony of childhood abuse recovery, divorce recovery and remarriage/blended family. I consider it an honor to walk alongside my adolescent through adult clients as He turns broken into beautiful, messes into messages and trials into triumphs. "His plans are to give you HOPE and a FUTURE." Jer 29:11 #doodlelover
I am a Licensed Professional Christian Counselor (LPC) specializing in relational and developmental trauma recovery, PTSD/childhood abuse recovery, healing the child within and family of origin healing. I use a story informed trauma treatment model (SITT) . I practice from a "wounded healer" perspective as I have my own testimony of childhood abuse recovery, divorce recovery and remarriage/blended family. I consider it an honor to walk alongside my adolescent through adult clients as He turns broken into beautiful, messes into messages and trials into triumphs. "His plans are to give you HOPE and a FUTURE." Jer 29:11 #doodlelover
(985) 243-1518 View (985) 243-1518
Photo of Roger D Butner, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roger D Butner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
I am passionate about helping people in need! While I work with many different issues, my greatest passion and experience are in working with teens and their parents, and helping people find freedom from the chains of addiction. I also work with many couples, and with men who are struggling to find their way in life. As a Christian counselor, I do my best to help my clients find peace and healing in their relationship with a loving God, without being preachy or pushing any kind of religious agenda. Put simply, I want to help others find hope and healing.
I am passionate about helping people in need! While I work with many different issues, my greatest passion and experience are in working with teens and their parents, and helping people find freedom from the chains of addiction. I also work with many couples, and with men who are struggling to find their way in life. As a Christian counselor, I do my best to help my clients find peace and healing in their relationship with a loving God, without being preachy or pushing any kind of religious agenda. Put simply, I want to help others find hope and healing.
(225) 263-4907 View (225) 263-4907
Photo of Angel Vaccaro, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Angel Vaccaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I am a professional counselor licensed in Louisiana with over 8 years of counseling experience. I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy Cajun food, love to cook, and I am an adventurer. working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, and addictions. My therapy style is warm and accepting. I believe in treating individuals with respect, compassion, and empathy. I use a variety of approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, narrative, eclectic, internal family systems, faith based, and rational emotive therapies.
I am a professional counselor licensed in Louisiana with over 8 years of counseling experience. I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy Cajun food, love to cook, and I am an adventurer. working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, and addictions. My therapy style is warm and accepting. I believe in treating individuals with respect, compassion, and empathy. I use a variety of approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, narrative, eclectic, internal family systems, faith based, and rational emotive therapies.
(225) 314-6828 View (225) 314-6828
Photo of Ernesha Smith, DBH, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ernesha Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816  (Online Only)
My name is Ernesha, some call me Dr. Smith or Dr. E, but you can call me whatever feels comfortable for you! As a dedicated holistic therapist, I specialize in helping you reframe your thoughts, reconnect with your core values, and break through the subconscious barriers that maybe holding you back. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of life transitions, tackling relationship issues, needing a boost in self-confidence, or healing from unresolved trauma and loss, my approach is tailored to address the roots of your challenges to improve your overall well-being. I have supported many of my clients through difficult life events
My name is Ernesha, some call me Dr. Smith or Dr. E, but you can call me whatever feels comfortable for you! As a dedicated holistic therapist, I specialize in helping you reframe your thoughts, reconnect with your core values, and break through the subconscious barriers that maybe holding you back. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of life transitions, tackling relationship issues, needing a boost in self-confidence, or healing from unresolved trauma and loss, my approach is tailored to address the roots of your challenges to improve your overall well-being. I have supported many of my clients through difficult life events
(225) 263-6519 View (225) 263-6519
Photo of Dr. Jessie Gomez Munson, PhD, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Jessie Gomez Munson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Does your child or teen need support to shine? Let me help! Do you have concerns about your child's mental health or questions about their development? Let me provide you with answers. Whether you are seeking an individualized assessment to diagnose a specific concern such as autism or ADHD, a comprehensive evaluation to answer questions about your child's strengths and weaknesses, or treatment to address effective parenting strategies and your child's well-being, let me provide you with the support you need.
Does your child or teen need support to shine? Let me help! Do you have concerns about your child's mental health or questions about their development? Let me provide you with answers. Whether you are seeking an individualized assessment to diagnose a specific concern such as autism or ADHD, a comprehensive evaluation to answer questions about your child's strengths and weaknesses, or treatment to address effective parenting strategies and your child's well-being, let me provide you with the support you need.
(225) 523-2676 View (225) 523-2676
Photo of Genevieve Haydel - Healthy Progressions, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healthy Progressions, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
The services provided at Healthy Progressions include individual therapy targeting clients with, but not limited, to the following diagnosis: Major depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Anxiety, OCD, Adjustment disorder, Eating disorders as well as those with a history of grief and trauma. The population served will be individuals of all genders ranging from 6 years of age and older.
The services provided at Healthy Progressions include individual therapy targeting clients with, but not limited, to the following diagnosis: Major depression, PTSD, Bipolar, Anxiety, OCD, Adjustment disorder, Eating disorders as well as those with a history of grief and trauma. The population served will be individuals of all genders ranging from 6 years of age and older.
(225) 307-4368 View (225) 307-4368
Photo of Ramon Lopez, LPC-S, PMH-C, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ramon Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, PMH-C, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Through personal, professional, and educational experiences, I have learned to use an integrated and balanced approach to emotional, mental, and physical change through the counseling process. I graduated with a BA in Psychology from Louisiana State University in 2003 and Masters in Counseling from Southeastern in 2007. I have spent the last 17 years providing mental health services to clients at each level of care. I am dual licensed as a LPC-S in the State of Louisiana and a LCPC in the State of Maine with telehealth license in State of Vermont
Through personal, professional, and educational experiences, I have learned to use an integrated and balanced approach to emotional, mental, and physical change through the counseling process. I graduated with a BA in Psychology from Louisiana State University in 2003 and Masters in Counseling from Southeastern in 2007. I have spent the last 17 years providing mental health services to clients at each level of care. I am dual licensed as a LPC-S in the State of Louisiana and a LCPC in the State of Maine with telehealth license in State of Vermont
(225) 681-8016 View (225) 681-8016
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Marie Bainguel, MSW, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Kimberly Marie Bainguel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
I have always had a desire to help people since I was a small child. As a young adult my interest began to grow towards the helping profession. My faith is important to me. It is my faith that continues to drive my profession as a therapist. I believe in life we experience so many things that effect how we think, live, and grow as a person. I wanted to gain more knowledge on how to be effective in helping people. So, then begins my journey to social work.
I have always had a desire to help people since I was a small child. As a young adult my interest began to grow towards the helping profession. My faith is important to me. It is my faith that continues to drive my profession as a therapist. I believe in life we experience so many things that effect how we think, live, and grow as a person. I wanted to gain more knowledge on how to be effective in helping people. So, then begins my journey to social work.
(225) 307-8166 View (225) 307-8166
Photo of Kaci Treadaway, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaci Treadaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters of Education in Counseling from Southeastern Louisiana University. I am committed to providing professional counseling services from a Christian perspective to adolescents, young adults, and families. I offer a variety of counseling services that address the following issues: adolescents struggling in school -adolescents struggling with parent relationships -adolescents struggling with anxiety or depression -parenting issues-depression -anxiety -self esteem -panic attacks -adjustment issues -past childhood matters - -eating disorders -relationship concerns -grief -singleness
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters of Education in Counseling from Southeastern Louisiana University. I am committed to providing professional counseling services from a Christian perspective to adolescents, young adults, and families. I offer a variety of counseling services that address the following issues: adolescents struggling in school -adolescents struggling with parent relationships -adolescents struggling with anxiety or depression -parenting issues-depression -anxiety -self esteem -panic attacks -adjustment issues -past childhood matters - -eating disorders -relationship concerns -grief -singleness
(225) 224-7138 View (225) 224-7138
Photo of Caitlyn Fruge, MS, LPC, Counselor
Caitlyn Fruge
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70810
I believe counseling benefits everyone but it is important to find a good match between counselor and client. I challenge you to grow, explore issues, and develop future goals by providing the necessary tools to overcome barriers through newly found awareness. It is at the utmost importance to me that you feel safe in a nurturing environment that facilitates self-acceptance and validation. I utilize integrated counseling techniques which focus on holistic wellness perspective.
I believe counseling benefits everyone but it is important to find a good match between counselor and client. I challenge you to grow, explore issues, and develop future goals by providing the necessary tools to overcome barriers through newly found awareness. It is at the utmost importance to me that you feel safe in a nurturing environment that facilitates self-acceptance and validation. I utilize integrated counseling techniques which focus on holistic wellness perspective.
(225) 320-5076 View (225) 320-5076
Photo of Rhonda Guinot, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhonda Guinot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Hi, my name is Rhonda. I have practiced Social Work/Counseling for over 23 years. I embrace the culture of Louisiana and look forward to helping each client achieve their full potential in reaching their personal goals. I take a relaxed approach to meeting with clients. I and am very non-judgmental and strive to provide support to the client. I attended a family therapy session when I was 19. It impressed me and motivated me to later achieve my master's degree in social work/Mental Health.
Hi, my name is Rhonda. I have practiced Social Work/Counseling for over 23 years. I embrace the culture of Louisiana and look forward to helping each client achieve their full potential in reaching their personal goals. I take a relaxed approach to meeting with clients. I and am very non-judgmental and strive to provide support to the client. I attended a family therapy session when I was 19. It impressed me and motivated me to later achieve my master's degree in social work/Mental Health.
(225) 438-9816 View (225) 438-9816
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

600+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Coping Skills
75% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
72% Stress
63% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Aetna
70% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Baton Rouge?

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.