Therapists in Johnston, IA
![Photo of Caitlin Silveira, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb557553-4f55-4dcb-9cb7-06f1673a498c/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 12 years of experience working with adults and teenagers. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, deconstruction and religious trauma, transitional and phase of life issues, self-esteem related concerns and eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and I will work with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your unique needs and preferences while incorporating your natural resiliency and strengths.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 12 years of experience working with adults and teenagers. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, deconstruction and religious trauma, transitional and phase of life issues, self-esteem related concerns and eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and I will work with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your unique needs and preferences while incorporating your natural resiliency and strengths.
![Photo of Jade Dilliner, tLMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb95fd0-b777-4bac-9a21-2fc8540aca40/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, so you will find that my office consists of many toys and games. I also spend a lot of time at the gym, so I like to advocate for incorporating physical activity into daily routines. Incorporating physical movement in session can be beneficial especially when working with children, but it is not required.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, so you will find that my office consists of many toys and games. I also spend a lot of time at the gym, so I like to advocate for incorporating physical activity into daily routines. Incorporating physical movement in session can be beneficial especially when working with children, but it is not required.
![Photo of Keri Clark - Counseling Insights, LLC, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3efc7783-48d6-4aaa-a55a-448d3fcb233a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Insights, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Waitlist for new clients
If you or a loved one is struggling with grief, trauma, life changes, and/or anxiety, want to gain better understanding of self, others, and environment, and appreciate a down-to-earth, tailored to you, therapeutic approach, I would be honored to be a part of your wellness journey.
If you or a loved one is struggling with grief, trauma, life changes, and/or anxiety, want to gain better understanding of self, others, and environment, and appreciate a down-to-earth, tailored to you, therapeutic approach, I would be honored to be a part of your wellness journey.
![Photo of Ricc Terranova, tLMHC, CH, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8160d2e-8eb1-449d-bd52-6ee560cd77fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ricc Terranova
Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC, CH
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131 (Online Only)
Inspired by Milton Erickson's metaphor of guiding the horse gently, I see my ideal client's issues as disconnection and uncertainty. They need support for growth and self-awareness, aiming to access inner resources. Their goal: embrace change and self-discovery for personal empowerment and fulfillment.
Inspired by Milton Erickson's metaphor of guiding the horse gently, I see my ideal client's issues as disconnection and uncertainty. They need support for growth and self-awareness, aiming to access inner resources. Their goal: embrace change and self-discovery for personal empowerment and fulfillment.
![Photo of Maddie Moree, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7d27bb1-436c-4112-b671-759fc7c97a08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am Maddie! I am a therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients identify and actively work on their therapeutic goals. I specialize in empowering individuals facing various life challenges. My practice focuses on supporting individuals navigating infertility and pregnancy loss along with pregnancy after loss. I have years of experience helping individuals work through stress, work/school related issues, creating and upholding boundaries, communication (including people pleasing tendencies) and becoming strong advocates for themselves!
Hi, I am Maddie! I am a therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients identify and actively work on their therapeutic goals. I specialize in empowering individuals facing various life challenges. My practice focuses on supporting individuals navigating infertility and pregnancy loss along with pregnancy after loss. I have years of experience helping individuals work through stress, work/school related issues, creating and upholding boundaries, communication (including people pleasing tendencies) and becoming strong advocates for themselves!
![Photo of Susan Lang, MA MHA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f669c2ab-d855-4e60-b89c-db1683d64c49/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed and need a calm, non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts? You deserve to live a life that you feel excited about and leaves you looking forward to the day ahead! Anxiety and depression can feel like a weight that drags you down and feels like a burden. You really can have the life that you dream of and brings you happiness and fulfillment. I love to help people explore their thoughts and make connections between how their thoughts impact their choices and behavior while also learning how to make changes so that you design the life you want and the life that fulfils you.!
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed and need a calm, non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts? You deserve to live a life that you feel excited about and leaves you looking forward to the day ahead! Anxiety and depression can feel like a weight that drags you down and feels like a burden. You really can have the life that you dream of and brings you happiness and fulfillment. I love to help people explore their thoughts and make connections between how their thoughts impact their choices and behavior while also learning how to make changes so that you design the life you want and the life that fulfils you.!
![Photo of Colin W Priest - Calm Tree Therapy, LMHC, CRC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd67bf40-6c75-4ef7-8d34-00b0678f4793/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you’re reading this right now you’ve likely experienced a lot of pain. Maybe you feel lost and don’t know what to do, or you’ve tried many things and nothing seems to work. Maybe things have felt “off” for some time and you are tired of the way you feel. One thing is for sure, you’re sick and tired of feeling the way you do right now and you want someone who can help. You want someone who you can trust, someone who respects you and sees the struggle you’ve had to endure. Most importantly, however, you want someone who can help you fix your problem so you can get back to living a happy life, and finally have some peace of mind.
If you’re reading this right now you’ve likely experienced a lot of pain. Maybe you feel lost and don’t know what to do, or you’ve tried many things and nothing seems to work. Maybe things have felt “off” for some time and you are tired of the way you feel. One thing is for sure, you’re sick and tired of feeling the way you do right now and you want someone who can help. You want someone who you can trust, someone who respects you and sees the struggle you’ve had to endure. Most importantly, however, you want someone who can help you fix your problem so you can get back to living a happy life, and finally have some peace of mind.
![Photo of Heather Conover, MS, LMHC, C-PD, CCATP, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8efe0bc-0a51-4f07-9ee6-b34da3a2f1e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a clinical therapist, my foremost commitment is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals seeking support in managing a wide array of mental health issues. Facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, or personality disorders, my focus is on providing comprehensive treatment tailored to your specific needs. You can trust that I am committed to walking alongside you, offering evidence-based interventions aimed at fostering positive change and promoting your overall well-being.
As a clinical therapist, my foremost commitment is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals seeking support in managing a wide array of mental health issues. Facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, or personality disorders, my focus is on providing comprehensive treatment tailored to your specific needs. You can trust that I am committed to walking alongside you, offering evidence-based interventions aimed at fostering positive change and promoting your overall well-being.
![Photo of Amy J Ziegenhorn, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f1166d5-37e2-47d2-ad56-fd448b06cf03/2/320x400.jpeg)
I currently have openings for new clients! We all know we live in overwhelming times. The stress of family, work, school, and life in general can really get to us. Sometimes, there is an issue that would be easier to manage if you have help. When it is time, reach out, help is available. I am ready to work with you to identify and target areas you choose. We will set goals and create strategies to increase your confidence in your ability to manage the multitude of stressors you face daily. I am here for that adventure, ready to help.
I currently have openings for new clients! We all know we live in overwhelming times. The stress of family, work, school, and life in general can really get to us. Sometimes, there is an issue that would be easier to manage if you have help. When it is time, reach out, help is available. I am ready to work with you to identify and target areas you choose. We will set goals and create strategies to increase your confidence in your ability to manage the multitude of stressors you face daily. I am here for that adventure, ready to help.
![Photo of Alison Holt, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36d2d889-db12-40b2-9136-5f2aa58d1178/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a child and family therapist with over 12 years of experience. I work with both children, and, adults who are parents. My specialties include teens, parent coaching, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ youth. I have been successful at treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ODD, behavioral problems, stress management difficulties, and more. Overall, my goal is to ensure that you feel safe and supported right from the start by creating a space that is inclusive, non-judgmental and fun for both children and parents.
I am a child and family therapist with over 12 years of experience. I work with both children, and, adults who are parents. My specialties include teens, parent coaching, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ youth. I have been successful at treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ODD, behavioral problems, stress management difficulties, and more. Overall, my goal is to ensure that you feel safe and supported right from the start by creating a space that is inclusive, non-judgmental and fun for both children and parents.
![Photo of Derek Michael Potthoff, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf8d6361-1b0d-422d-93ac-2099e8c03ef9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Derek Michael Potthoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Reaching out is the first step and I am excited to help you in finding a path to self-growth that works best for you! It is my belief that anyone coming into therapy with an eagerness to grow has the ability to enact substantial change in their life. Each client's mental health journey is unique and I am here to help you forge your way. I am ready to meet you where you're at and make your counseling journey a positive experience.
Reaching out is the first step and I am excited to help you in finding a path to self-growth that works best for you! It is my belief that anyone coming into therapy with an eagerness to grow has the ability to enact substantial change in their life. Each client's mental health journey is unique and I am here to help you forge your way. I am ready to meet you where you're at and make your counseling journey a positive experience.
![Photo of Lauren Flynn, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96e656e8-74a7-4cba-80a5-2091635ed130/1/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate availability for ages 12+! No cost consultations. Life can present a facade of having it all together, yet internally, it can feel noisy, chaotic. You have valuable and important aspirations, and it can be a struggle to know where to start. If you are looking to embark on a journey with authenticity, mindfulness, and intentionality, you've found an ally. It won't always be easy, but may bring on moments of invigoration, sparks of joy, and an enhanced ability to deal with life's challenges. I work with individuals experiencing: parenting/relationship issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, executive functioning concerns.
Immediate availability for ages 12+! No cost consultations. Life can present a facade of having it all together, yet internally, it can feel noisy, chaotic. You have valuable and important aspirations, and it can be a struggle to know where to start. If you are looking to embark on a journey with authenticity, mindfulness, and intentionality, you've found an ally. It won't always be easy, but may bring on moments of invigoration, sparks of joy, and an enhanced ability to deal with life's challenges. I work with individuals experiencing: parenting/relationship issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, executive functioning concerns.
![Photo of Dr. Kevin Allemagne, PhD, LMFT, LISW, LIMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a59a5a6c-b764-41e0-bcf6-3a4817187393/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kevin Allemagne
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LISW, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Having been a clinical mental health therapist for 25 years, I recognize the decision to seek help can be difficult and challenging. My practice endeavors to create a comfortable and safe environment exploring your concerns in a collaborative and professional manner. I am committed in working to provide real solutions empowering individuals, couples, and families to achieve their personal and professional goals. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how therapy may be helpful with your needs.
Having been a clinical mental health therapist for 25 years, I recognize the decision to seek help can be difficult and challenging. My practice endeavors to create a comfortable and safe environment exploring your concerns in a collaborative and professional manner. I am committed in working to provide real solutions empowering individuals, couples, and families to achieve their personal and professional goals. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how therapy may be helpful with your needs.
![Photo of LeAnn Waterhouse - Willow Grove Therapy Group, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5de1168-0d06-4827-b01b-8f505a4bc8ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
We're accepting new clients! Willow Grove Therapy strives to be a welcoming, safe space. Our therapists enjoy helping a variety of people - from age 10 through retirement - to feel more fulfilled and grounded in their daily lives. Our goal is always to meet clients where they are and offer support to move in the direction of their goals.
We're accepting new clients! Willow Grove Therapy strives to be a welcoming, safe space. Our therapists enjoy helping a variety of people - from age 10 through retirement - to feel more fulfilled and grounded in their daily lives. Our goal is always to meet clients where they are and offer support to move in the direction of their goals.
![Photo of Julie McClatchey - Julie McClatchey, LISW, PC, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462058fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie McClatchey, LISW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. My first goal is to help you feel safe to share your story. We will work together to identify where you are feeling stuck; better understand your issues; experience healing from recent and past hurts; learn new ways to manage stress; identify solutions, and take action toward your goals. I am an interactive therapist who believes in the importance of non-judgmental listening and emotional support while providing feedback, guidance, and education. I currently have a wait list of 4-6 wks.
I have been in the mental health field for over 30 years. My first goal is to help you feel safe to share your story. We will work together to identify where you are feeling stuck; better understand your issues; experience healing from recent and past hurts; learn new ways to manage stress; identify solutions, and take action toward your goals. I am an interactive therapist who believes in the importance of non-judgmental listening and emotional support while providing feedback, guidance, and education. I currently have a wait list of 4-6 wks.
![Photo of Sharon Winkel-, MBA, LNHA, NLP, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a116454-152a-472e-b7fc-b7e7655d008f/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are interested in taking control of your life and implementing focused, actionable steps to achieve powerful results, hypnotherapy can jump start your journey. Hypnotherapy and hypnosis is a highly successful method for transformational change in the areas of self-improvement, performance, and health and wellness. In addition, as your personal and professional life coach, you will have the means to cultivate new choices, actions, and behaviors to live the life you envision. Through strengthening physical and mental abilities, you can discover a resilient, happy, and strong inner you. Powerful change can be yours now.
If you are interested in taking control of your life and implementing focused, actionable steps to achieve powerful results, hypnotherapy can jump start your journey. Hypnotherapy and hypnosis is a highly successful method for transformational change in the areas of self-improvement, performance, and health and wellness. In addition, as your personal and professional life coach, you will have the means to cultivate new choices, actions, and behaviors to live the life you envision. Through strengthening physical and mental abilities, you can discover a resilient, happy, and strong inner you. Powerful change can be yours now.
![Photo of Sarah Price, BSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e631a3b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
Do you feel stuck or unhappy? Do you wonder why everyone seems to have it all together but you don’t? Do you want to stop living in fear and better yourself? Taking the steps to take control of your life is an act of bravery and self-love. We all get one life on this earth, it is up to us to make the most of it. I have been working as a therapist for over 10 years helping adults and adolescents make small changes that with time lead to big results. My specialties include Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and improving interpersonal relationship dynamics and boundaries.
Do you feel stuck or unhappy? Do you wonder why everyone seems to have it all together but you don’t? Do you want to stop living in fear and better yourself? Taking the steps to take control of your life is an act of bravery and self-love. We all get one life on this earth, it is up to us to make the most of it. I have been working as a therapist for over 10 years helping adults and adolescents make small changes that with time lead to big results. My specialties include Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and improving interpersonal relationship dynamics and boundaries.
![Photo of Johanna R Guerdet, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a1bc0f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Johanna R Guerdet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnston, IA 50131
Welcome to the beginning of your therapy journey! As a client centered therapist, my focus is on you and your needs as a client. No problem is too big or too small for therapy, and it's never too early or too late to seek help. We will work together to make your life goals and changes.
Welcome to the beginning of your therapy journey! As a client centered therapist, my focus is on you and your needs as a client. No problem is too big or too small for therapy, and it's never too early or too late to seek help. We will work together to make your life goals and changes.
![Photo of Erin Fiala - Comfort Counseling, LLC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e24a76c-42be-459b-9c84-48c4129fbf3f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. Making the decision to start therapy can be one of the hardest decisions to make. I am Erin, a compassionate therapist dedicated to fostering growth and resilience. Guided by a person-centered, strengths-based philosophy, I specialize in weaving play therapy techniques, sand tray, and cognitive-behavioral therapy into our therapeutic journey. I empower clients to understand and reshape their thought patterns. My utilization of play therapy techniques and sand tray facilitates a unique and effective approach, especially with younger clients or those who find traditional talk therapy challenging.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. Making the decision to start therapy can be one of the hardest decisions to make. I am Erin, a compassionate therapist dedicated to fostering growth and resilience. Guided by a person-centered, strengths-based philosophy, I specialize in weaving play therapy techniques, sand tray, and cognitive-behavioral therapy into our therapeutic journey. I empower clients to understand and reshape their thought patterns. My utilization of play therapy techniques and sand tray facilitates a unique and effective approach, especially with younger clients or those who find traditional talk therapy challenging.
![Photo of Sarah J Garcia, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c371ee15-1730-4d22-be03-15ddb2b4096a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah J Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131 (Online Only)
I have 16 years’ experience in social services, including 10 years engaged in adolescent and adult therapy. During that time, I’ve seen first-hand the impact depression, anxiety and trauma can have on child development, marriages, parenting and interpersonal skills in general. My approach to helping improve the connections in people’s lives starts with understanding their needs in a safe, judgement-free environment.
I have 16 years’ experience in social services, including 10 years engaged in adolescent and adult therapy. During that time, I’ve seen first-hand the impact depression, anxiety and trauma can have on child development, marriages, parenting and interpersonal skills in general. My approach to helping improve the connections in people’s lives starts with understanding their needs in a safe, judgement-free environment.
See more therapy options for Johnston
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Johnston, IA
60+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in Johnston, IA who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
79% | Relationship Issues |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
79% | Self Esteem |
73% | Coping Skills |
73% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
84% | Wellmark BCBS |
65% | Blue Cross |
How Therapists in Johnston, IA see their clients
92% | In Person and Online | |
8% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Johnston?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.