Therapists in Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD

Photo of Mika Singer, LCPC
Mika Singer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212
Mika Singer, LCPC Mika Singer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2011. She holds a BA in Psychology, an MA in Criminal Justice, and an MA in Counseling. Mika believes in meeting clients where they are and addressing their needs with a modality suited to them. In her spare time, Mika enjoys trivia, coaching and playing softball, and being a Cheer and Girl Scout mom.
Mika Singer, LCPC Mika Singer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2011. She holds a BA in Psychology, an MA in Criminal Justice, and an MA in Counseling. Mika believes in meeting clients where they are and addressing their needs with a modality suited to them. In her spare time, Mika enjoys trivia, coaching and playing softball, and being a Cheer and Girl Scout mom.
(443) 998-8425 View (443) 998-8425
Photo of Shawn Smith, LCADC, Counselor
Shawn Smith
Counselor, LCADC
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212
Hello - I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (L.C.P.C.), and a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (L.C.A.D.C.). I've been assisting individuals with mental health and behavioral health disorders, in addition to substance use disorders, in and around the Baltimore, Maryland area for the past 23-years. I believe that a solid therapeutic relationship and a good sense of humor are critical to exploring some of life's greatest challenges and obstacles. With a little effort and guidance, almost anyone can accomplish almost anything!
Hello - I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (L.C.P.C.), and a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (L.C.A.D.C.). I've been assisting individuals with mental health and behavioral health disorders, in addition to substance use disorders, in and around the Baltimore, Maryland area for the past 23-years. I believe that a solid therapeutic relationship and a good sense of humor are critical to exploring some of life's greatest challenges and obstacles. With a little effort and guidance, almost anyone can accomplish almost anything!
(410) 559-9293 View (410) 559-9293
Photo of Renny Drinks, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Renny Drinks
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
My name is Renny Drinks, Psy.D. I am a psychology associate practicing under the supervision of Lillian Odera, Ph.D. I work with adults, families, and couples from a Psychodynamic and Family Systems approach. I have extensive experience dealing with a wide range of psychological conditions including attachment issues, trauma, adjustment issues, grief and loss, fertility/reproductive issues, gender related issues, depression, anxiety, identity development, relationship difficulties, and life dissatisfaction to name a few.
My name is Renny Drinks, Psy.D. I am a psychology associate practicing under the supervision of Lillian Odera, Ph.D. I work with adults, families, and couples from a Psychodynamic and Family Systems approach. I have extensive experience dealing with a wide range of psychological conditions including attachment issues, trauma, adjustment issues, grief and loss, fertility/reproductive issues, gender related issues, depression, anxiety, identity development, relationship difficulties, and life dissatisfaction to name a few.
(410) 835-4198 View (410) 835-4198
Photo of Anjali Jain, PhD, Psychologist
Anjali Jain
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212
Dr. Jain is a Licensed Psychologist (Clinical) who has worked in the field for over 15 years. She has worked extensively with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and stressors associated with life transitions and physical health. She is also the Regional Clinical Director for Lifestance in Maryland. Dr. Jain has worked independently with outpatient group practices in Maryland. Previously, she has worked with trauma survivors, veterans, substance abuse, and the homeless population in New York City.
Dr. Jain is a Licensed Psychologist (Clinical) who has worked in the field for over 15 years. She has worked extensively with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and stressors associated with life transitions and physical health. She is also the Regional Clinical Director for Lifestance in Maryland. Dr. Jain has worked independently with outpatient group practices in Maryland. Previously, she has worked with trauma survivors, veterans, substance abuse, and the homeless population in New York City.
(443) 767-4501 View (443) 767-4501
Photo of Sarah Balogh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Balogh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212
Sarah Balogh (pronounced Bay-Low) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, ADHD, and Relationship/Attachment issues with clients ages 16-65. She received her Bachelor's in Social Work and Psychology from University of Maryland, Baltimore County and her Master of Social Work from University of Maryland, Baltimore. Sarah utilizes an eclectic approach with her clients, catering her interventions to their specific personality and needs.
Sarah Balogh (pronounced Bay-Low) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, ADHD, and Relationship/Attachment issues with clients ages 16-65. She received her Bachelor's in Social Work and Psychology from University of Maryland, Baltimore County and her Master of Social Work from University of Maryland, Baltimore. Sarah utilizes an eclectic approach with her clients, catering her interventions to their specific personality and needs.
(410) 941-3365 View (410) 941-3365
Photo of Carly Compton, LCPC, Counselor
Carly Compton
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212
Carly Compton is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2021. Carly believes in treating clients as individuals and collaborating with clients to make sure they feel that their treatment plan is practical and sustainable for their lives. Each person is treated as the most important part of their treatment team, as they are the expert of their experience. Carly practices a person-centered and strengths-based approach. She facilitates clients identifying their own strengths and encourages utilizing those strengths to build a foundation for coping.
Carly Compton is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2021. Carly believes in treating clients as individuals and collaborating with clients to make sure they feel that their treatment plan is practical and sustainable for their lives. Each person is treated as the most important part of their treatment team, as they are the expert of their experience. Carly practices a person-centered and strengths-based approach. She facilitates clients identifying their own strengths and encourages utilizing those strengths to build a foundation for coping.
(443) 222-9691 View (443) 222-9691
Photo of Catherine McCubbin, LCPC, Counselor
Catherine McCubbin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
Catherine A. McCubbin, LCPC Catherine A. McCubbin is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2002. She has an MA in Clinical Psychology from Towson University. Catherine believes everyone has the ability to change. She utilizes different types of interventions, such as CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, knowing that what works for one person won't necessarily work for everyone. She knows that 'better' looks different for everyone and see herself as a guide to help clients reach their goals. In her free time, Catherine enjoys reading, travel, and photography.
Catherine A. McCubbin, LCPC Catherine A. McCubbin is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2002. She has an MA in Clinical Psychology from Towson University. Catherine believes everyone has the ability to change. She utilizes different types of interventions, such as CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, knowing that what works for one person won't necessarily work for everyone. She knows that 'better' looks different for everyone and see herself as a guide to help clients reach their goals. In her free time, Catherine enjoys reading, travel, and photography.
(443) 541-5960 View (443) 541-5960
Photo of Elisza Fisher, LCPC, Counselor
Elisza Fisher
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
Elisza Fisher is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who started practicing in 2006. She has a Master's Degree in Counseling from McDaniel College. Elisza believes in treating everyone with respect and dignity and employs person-centered and trauma-informed approach to her treatment to better the lives of her clients. In her spare time, Elisza enjoys animals, music, cars and time with family and friends.
Elisza Fisher is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who started practicing in 2006. She has a Master's Degree in Counseling from McDaniel College. Elisza believes in treating everyone with respect and dignity and employs person-centered and trauma-informed approach to her treatment to better the lives of her clients. In her spare time, Elisza enjoys animals, music, cars and time with family and friends.
(443) 888-2565 View (443) 888-2565
Photo of Lilian Odera, PhD, Psychologist
Lilian Odera
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
Dr. Odera is a licensed clinical psychologist who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. She went on to earn her Master of Science degree and doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Dr. Odera's interests include working with adolescents and adult populations, with a special interest in racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants, and marginalized groups.
Dr. Odera is a licensed clinical psychologist who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. She went on to earn her Master of Science degree and doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Dr. Odera's interests include working with adolescents and adult populations, with a special interest in racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants, and marginalized groups.
(443) 672-5639 View (443) 672-5639
Photo of Carrie Holland-Lee, LCPC
Carrie Holland-Lee
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
Carrie Holland-Lee is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Private Practice in Maryland with over 10 years of experience. She holds a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.
Carrie Holland-Lee is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Private Practice in Maryland with over 10 years of experience. She holds a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.
(443) 331-9623 View (443) 331-9623
Photo of Tamara L. Baker, PhD, Psychologist
Tamara L. Baker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212
Tamara L. Baker is a Licensed Psychologist in Maryland who has been practicing since 1994. She has extensive expertise in treating anxiety disorders with EMDR, geriatrics, and assessing dementia. She has worked in college counseling centers, private practice, and long-term care settings. Tamara is a holistic psychologist, which means that she will see you as a complex, dynamic, emotional, and spiritual being who is always growing and evolving. Working with Tamara may start with a particular “problem,” which could be addressed with a synthesis of EMDR, interpersonal, humanistic, mind-body practices, and/or cognitive approaches.
Tamara L. Baker is a Licensed Psychologist in Maryland who has been practicing since 1994. She has extensive expertise in treating anxiety disorders with EMDR, geriatrics, and assessing dementia. She has worked in college counseling centers, private practice, and long-term care settings. Tamara is a holistic psychologist, which means that she will see you as a complex, dynamic, emotional, and spiritual being who is always growing and evolving. Working with Tamara may start with a particular “problem,” which could be addressed with a synthesis of EMDR, interpersonal, humanistic, mind-body practices, and/or cognitive approaches.
(443) 323-1836 View (443) 323-1836
Photo of Eric Drinks, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Eric Drinks
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
He works with children, adolescents, adults, and families with a wide range of psychological conditions including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and trauma. Dr. Drinks believes that the key to therapy is the therapeutic relationship and through the relationship he hopes to help the client find his or her path to achieve his or her goals. Dr. Drinks uses a variety of techniques to tailor the therapy on a client-by-client basis.
He works with children, adolescents, adults, and families with a wide range of psychological conditions including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and trauma. Dr. Drinks believes that the key to therapy is the therapeutic relationship and through the relationship he hopes to help the client find his or her path to achieve his or her goals. Dr. Drinks uses a variety of techniques to tailor the therapy on a client-by-client basis.
(410) 680-3734 View (410) 680-3734

Online Therapists

Photo of John D Gartner, PhD, Psychologist
John D Gartner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS REMOTELY AND IN PERSON: I've practiced psychotherapy for over 40 years, and during that time also taught psychiatric residents at Johns Hopkins Medical School. My areas of specialization are bipolar type 2 and borderline personality disorder. I've also worked with many entrepreneurs since the publication of my book, The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (a Little) Craziness and (a Lot of ) Success in America.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS REMOTELY AND IN PERSON: I've practiced psychotherapy for over 40 years, and during that time also taught psychiatric residents at Johns Hopkins Medical School. My areas of specialization are bipolar type 2 and borderline personality disorder. I've also worked with many entrepreneurs since the publication of my book, The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (a Little) Craziness and (a Lot of ) Success in America.
(410) 305-9221 View (410) 305-9221
Photo of Teresa Méndez, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa M Méndez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
Psychodynamic psychotherapy has the capacity to change us deeply. But it can also be subtle: allowing for a sense of "staying the same while changing," as we hold onto the parts of ourselves we value, while better understanding those parts that may be getting in the way. I work from the belief that meaningful and lasting change occurs in the context of relationships - including the relationship between therapist and patient. People come to me with painful relationships, difficult family dynamics, uncomfortable mood or anxiety symptoms, a general feeling that something isn't right, or the desire to simply know themselves better.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy has the capacity to change us deeply. But it can also be subtle: allowing for a sense of "staying the same while changing," as we hold onto the parts of ourselves we value, while better understanding those parts that may be getting in the way. I work from the belief that meaningful and lasting change occurs in the context of relationships - including the relationship between therapist and patient. People come to me with painful relationships, difficult family dynamics, uncomfortable mood or anxiety symptoms, a general feeling that something isn't right, or the desire to simply know themselves better.
(202) 817-2402 View (202) 817-2402
Photo of Dr. Julie D. Lapides, MA, Psy D, Psychologist
Dr. Julie D. Lapides
Psychologist, MA, Psy D
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209  (Online Only)
Trauma can leave you feeling insecure, hurt and alone. Perhaps you lived through traumatic circumstances as a child. When you gathered the courage to tell someone, nothing changed. You may have been traumatized as an adult. For years you have kept a protective distance from others. You want to develop more fulfilling relationships, but your experiences have left you feeling afraid and unable to trust other people.
Trauma can leave you feeling insecure, hurt and alone. Perhaps you lived through traumatic circumstances as a child. When you gathered the courage to tell someone, nothing changed. You may have been traumatized as an adult. For years you have kept a protective distance from others. You want to develop more fulfilling relationships, but your experiences have left you feeling afraid and unable to trust other people.
(410) 650-4858 View (410) 650-4858
Photo of Bethany Ferguson, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Our thoughts and emotions are just a fraction of who we are. Connecting with yourself and your values can help you observe and navigate these emotions and thoughts while enjoying life and living well.
Our thoughts and emotions are just a fraction of who we are. Connecting with yourself and your values can help you observe and navigate these emotions and thoughts while enjoying life and living well.
(443) 377-3608 View (443) 377-3608
Photo of Angelina Argyle - Angelina Argyle - NOCD, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelina Argyle - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21236  (Online Only)
Therapy is most effective when it zooms out to the big picture and zooms back into the details, flowing between these perspectives. Together, we’ll identify what you'd like to change. We understand you might be suffering and resisting that suffering in body and mind, but what we resist persists. You and I will walk side by side to lessen resistance with kindness, understanding, and support. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to diagnose and treat it effectively.
Therapy is most effective when it zooms out to the big picture and zooms back into the details, flowing between these perspectives. Together, we’ll identify what you'd like to change. We understand you might be suffering and resisting that suffering in body and mind, but what we resist persists. You and I will walk side by side to lessen resistance with kindness, understanding, and support. At NOCD, my team and I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for OCD. Our deep understanding of the nuances and intricacies of OCD enables us to diagnose and treat it effectively.
(443) 335-6105 View (443) 335-6105
Photo of Abbey Peko-Spicer, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abbey Peko-Spicer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We all have the capacity for growth and change, and the pain we carry usually develops from unhelpful stories that we've learned to tell ourselves over time. These stories - which we often learn through the systems we operate within - can impact the way we move, respond and connect, and can sometimes keep us stuck. I think we can grow by understanding how our stories started, by noticing the powerful information that our bodies give us about our emotional pain, and by working to unravel and re-craft our stories in a way that leaves us feeling more empowered, flexible, and whole.
We all have the capacity for growth and change, and the pain we carry usually develops from unhelpful stories that we've learned to tell ourselves over time. These stories - which we often learn through the systems we operate within - can impact the way we move, respond and connect, and can sometimes keep us stuck. I think we can grow by understanding how our stories started, by noticing the powerful information that our bodies give us about our emotional pain, and by working to unravel and re-craft our stories in a way that leaves us feeling more empowered, flexible, and whole.
(410) 264-1579 View (410) 264-1579
Photo of Lori Chesla, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Chesla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I believe that therapy is an opportunity for deep and lasting transformation. I work with clients to build insight and skills that allow for fulfilling relationships, satisfying work, and deep joy in all aspects of life. I provide psychotherapy for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, family and relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I have a particular interest in working with folks who identify as neurodivergent, and frequently work with partners of neurodivergent folks who identify as neurotypical.
I believe that therapy is an opportunity for deep and lasting transformation. I work with clients to build insight and skills that allow for fulfilling relationships, satisfying work, and deep joy in all aspects of life. I provide psychotherapy for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, family and relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I have a particular interest in working with folks who identify as neurodivergent, and frequently work with partners of neurodivergent folks who identify as neurotypical.
View
Photo of Tracy Allen, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Tracy Allen, LCSW-C owner of Reclaiming Hope LLC and Coached By Tra. I am a licensed clinical social worker providing Life Coaching and Reiki services in Baltimore. After 21 years of providing clinical services, I made a change to more holistic practices. I help clients discover who they are so they can pursue their passion. I firmly believe in holistic healing, so I provide Reiki services so clients can achieve emotional healing, pain relief, and relaxation. Energy readings are also available for clients with a more spiritual focus.
Hello, I am Tracy Allen, LCSW-C owner of Reclaiming Hope LLC and Coached By Tra. I am a licensed clinical social worker providing Life Coaching and Reiki services in Baltimore. After 21 years of providing clinical services, I made a change to more holistic practices. I help clients discover who they are so they can pursue their passion. I firmly believe in holistic healing, so I provide Reiki services so clients can achieve emotional healing, pain relief, and relaxation. Energy readings are also available for clients with a more spiritual focus.
(667) 249-7974 View (667) 249-7974

See more therapy options for Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD

10+

Therapists in Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
92% Women's Issues
75% Bipolar Disorder
67% ADHD
58% Grief

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Optum

How Therapists in Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore, MD see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Pleasant View Gardens, Baltimore?

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.