Therapists in Compton, MD
![Photo of Mackensey K Kubina, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45375839-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mackensey K Kubina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Compton, MD 20627
Everyone has strengths and therapy can be utilized as a tool to further develop those strengths in addition to building new strengths. My goal is to provide a safe space for exploring feelings, resolving issues, personal growth, and rebuilding relationships. Therapy is a partnership we will enter in together to best support your individual or family needs. The ideal client is one who is ready to take the first step in this partnership with an open mind and heart. It is not an easy task, but the rewards of focusing on your personal journey and growth are great.
Everyone has strengths and therapy can be utilized as a tool to further develop those strengths in addition to building new strengths. My goal is to provide a safe space for exploring feelings, resolving issues, personal growth, and rebuilding relationships. Therapy is a partnership we will enter in together to best support your individual or family needs. The ideal client is one who is ready to take the first step in this partnership with an open mind and heart. It is not an easy task, but the rewards of focusing on your personal journey and growth are great.
![Photo of Rebecca Hill, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44070bed-ce6b-4f90-89d9-43c825c2676d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many individuals are living life haunted by past trauma or experiencing interpersonal relationship breakdowns. This can cause anxiety, depression, and negative self talk. It is important to process the emotions that derive from these experiences in order to move forward and experience healthy, positive, and meaningful relationships. It does take work and will not always be easy but the outcome from our sessions will be worth all the effort. It’s not who you are that holds you back. It’s who you think you’re not. Together we can work to toss out the thoughts that hold you back.
Many individuals are living life haunted by past trauma or experiencing interpersonal relationship breakdowns. This can cause anxiety, depression, and negative self talk. It is important to process the emotions that derive from these experiences in order to move forward and experience healthy, positive, and meaningful relationships. It does take work and will not always be easy but the outcome from our sessions will be worth all the effort. It’s not who you are that holds you back. It’s who you think you’re not. Together we can work to toss out the thoughts that hold you back.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Gersende Schleicher, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438adba2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gersende Schleicher
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Leonardtown, MD 20650
Are you a teen who feels like no one understands? Are you a person who needs help in coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, or family issues? Are you having trouble adjusting to a transition in life such as divorce or a new job? Life can be difficult and I'm here to help you cope with life's struggles without feeling alone.
Are you a teen who feels like no one understands? Are you a person who needs help in coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, or family issues? Are you having trouble adjusting to a transition in life such as divorce or a new job? Life can be difficult and I'm here to help you cope with life's struggles without feeling alone.
![Photo of Esther Vanderwal - Serenity Place, LLC, BSW, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a2bbf9f-69da-4d28-a6ad-695e53fe4c35/3/320x400.jpeg)
Serenity Place, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leonardtown, MD 20650
If you feel like the world's weight is on your shoulders, and the burden has become too heavy to carry, we can assist you. We have experience working with various populations but focus on family issues, marriage and family issues, as well as grief, bereavement, and trauma. The backpack of life may seem too heavy or bulky to carry alone. Allow us to assist you in repacking your bag to allow you to carry it better through life. View our photos to meet our clinicians! We can see clients in person or via telehealth. Although our physical location is in southern Maryland, we can see clients throughout the state through telehealth!
If you feel like the world's weight is on your shoulders, and the burden has become too heavy to carry, we can assist you. We have experience working with various populations but focus on family issues, marriage and family issues, as well as grief, bereavement, and trauma. The backpack of life may seem too heavy or bulky to carry alone. Allow us to assist you in repacking your bag to allow you to carry it better through life. View our photos to meet our clinicians! We can see clients in person or via telehealth. Although our physical location is in southern Maryland, we can see clients throughout the state through telehealth!
![Photo of Christopher Shea, MA, CAC-AD, CRAT, ADS, LCC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8df8cfbd-1cc0-4274-9d3d-6d6996cfed98/2/320x400.png)
Christopher Shea
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CAC-AD, CRAT, ADS, LCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Leonardtown, MD 20650 (Online Only)
I'm accepting new clients. NEWS ... I'm now a Certified First Responder Supporter, trained in guiding first responders through their unique struggles. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or unsure of how to cope with recent life changes? Are you struggling with addiction? I'm here for you with 30 years' experience. My services empower you to live and create a life you truly love. I focus on unlocking your full potential so that you can achieve your goals and dreams. Combining mindfulness and life coaching will help you gain clarity, focus, and purpose. I offer flexible and economical ONLINE sessions.
I'm accepting new clients. NEWS ... I'm now a Certified First Responder Supporter, trained in guiding first responders through their unique struggles. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or unsure of how to cope with recent life changes? Are you struggling with addiction? I'm here for you with 30 years' experience. My services empower you to live and create a life you truly love. I focus on unlocking your full potential so that you can achieve your goals and dreams. Combining mindfulness and life coaching will help you gain clarity, focus, and purpose. I offer flexible and economical ONLINE sessions.
![Photo of Melisa Patel, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a8cd56e-4a97-430d-894c-345e9a4cad41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melisa Patel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Leonardtown, MD 20650 (Online Only)
Life's challenges can often feel overwhelming, and finding a space where you can unburden yourself without judgment is crucial. I am here to offer you that space - a warm, empathetic environment where your voice is heard and your concerns are met with understanding and care. Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing can be daunting, but not one you have to walk alone. My approach is rooted in understanding and kindness, ensuring a safe space for exploration and healing. I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling. Now as a licensed professional (LCPC).
Life's challenges can often feel overwhelming, and finding a space where you can unburden yourself without judgment is crucial. I am here to offer you that space - a warm, empathetic environment where your voice is heard and your concerns are met with understanding and care. Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing can be daunting, but not one you have to walk alone. My approach is rooted in understanding and kindness, ensuring a safe space for exploration and healing. I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling. Now as a licensed professional (LCPC).
![Photo of Amber L. Abell, BS, MSCP, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed5178a1-bc22-42d3-80bd-5eda350d15ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked in the mental health, psychiatric rehabilitation, and substance use fields for 21 years. I have three years of direct clinical experience working with diverse populations. I am an eclectic therapist that practices using many counseling and psychology theories, including humanistic, behavioral, and evidence-based approaches. Interventions are tailored to the individual's needs and preferences.
I have worked in the mental health, psychiatric rehabilitation, and substance use fields for 21 years. I have three years of direct clinical experience working with diverse populations. I am an eclectic therapist that practices using many counseling and psychology theories, including humanistic, behavioral, and evidence-based approaches. Interventions are tailored to the individual's needs and preferences.
![Photo of Carolyn McElroy, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e322e1e5-5721-456d-be73-84e88a769916/4/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn McElroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hollywood, MD 20636 (Online Only)
My style is warm, relaxed and compassionate. I aim to create a relationship which facilitates growth through collaboration, respect, and gentle challenge. I am passionate about helping women recover and heal.
My style is warm, relaxed and compassionate. I aim to create a relationship which facilitates growth through collaboration, respect, and gentle challenge. I am passionate about helping women recover and heal.
![Photo of Julie Devine, LCPC, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa4c0ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Devine
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Leonardtown, MD 20650
Are you looking for help for depression, anxiety, trauma, family or parenting issues? I can help. I treat children, teenagers, and adults. I work with individuals and families. Groups can be formed when the need arises. My unique and effective type of therapy can be helpful to many different issues.
Are you looking for help for depression, anxiety, trauma, family or parenting issues? I can help. I treat children, teenagers, and adults. I work with individuals and families. Groups can be formed when the need arises. My unique and effective type of therapy can be helpful to many different issues.
![Photo of Jessica Bowling - Chesapeake South Therapeutic Group LLC, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bfd70ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Chesapeake South Therapeutic Group LLC
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Leonardtown, MD 20650
Waitlist for new clients
Life is full of challenges and we are here to help you navigate through the tough times in your life. Our therapists guide adults in resolving personal, social and psychological difficulties. Our focus is on healing through life's transitions, trauma, depression and anxiety. We also assist couples to recognize and resolve conflict to improve their relationships.
Life is full of challenges and we are here to help you navigate through the tough times in your life. Our therapists guide adults in resolving personal, social and psychological difficulties. Our focus is on healing through life's transitions, trauma, depression and anxiety. We also assist couples to recognize and resolve conflict to improve their relationships.
Mary Yvonne Ayers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
California, MD 20619
Waitlist for new clients
My work begins with taking the time to understand each, unique individual. This collaborative, compassionate yet thought provoking process is called "the talking cure," and it can be life changing. I am a curious listener, and through our weekly conversations you will learn to reflect on what you are experiencing differently - this is why psychotherapy works. I am always sure to provide a safe and respectful environment in order to change maladaptive patterns of thinking, behaving or feeling that stem from past experiences and underlie presenting symptoms, while working on practical solutions to immediate problems.
My work begins with taking the time to understand each, unique individual. This collaborative, compassionate yet thought provoking process is called "the talking cure," and it can be life changing. I am a curious listener, and through our weekly conversations you will learn to reflect on what you are experiencing differently - this is why psychotherapy works. I am always sure to provide a safe and respectful environment in order to change maladaptive patterns of thinking, behaving or feeling that stem from past experiences and underlie presenting symptoms, while working on practical solutions to immediate problems.
![Photo of Donna Bennett - Coaching for the Voyage, LCSW-C, CMP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fdf9689-e0bf-4f14-ae86-c73cfcc8a848/2/320x400.jpeg)
Coaching for the Voyage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leonardtown, MD 20650
You have strengths. Yes, you do. Maybe ones that you don't even know you have. Together we can uncover those strengths and begin exploring how they can move your life forward in your career, relationships, parenting, and personal growth. We will focus on what is right with you and how you can expand that out to greater circles in your life. Having a coach, cheerleader, and calming support can make all the difference in overcoming longstanding and/or seemingly overwhelming obstacles. One of our clinicians can be that person for you.
You have strengths. Yes, you do. Maybe ones that you don't even know you have. Together we can uncover those strengths and begin exploring how they can move your life forward in your career, relationships, parenting, and personal growth. We will focus on what is right with you and how you can expand that out to greater circles in your life. Having a coach, cheerleader, and calming support can make all the difference in overcoming longstanding and/or seemingly overwhelming obstacles. One of our clinicians can be that person for you.
![Photo of Deborah A. Duley - Empowered Connections, LLC , MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28fc7b84-0733-42b3-a510-32ddadaf0b09/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empowered Connections, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Leonardtown, MD 20650
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide 4 girl/teen girl experts to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. We have a new location in Bethesda now! Offering virtual therapy for the entire state of Maryland & DC!
Scared. Worried. Anxious. Unsure. You look happy on the outside but inside, you're falling apart: you're feeling overwhelmed and having panic attacks out of the blue. You're a successful woman who is trying to do it all: it's a scary feeling, we know! Our team of women counselor's has been there ourselves & we can help you get your life back! We are also pleased to provide 4 girl/teen girl experts to help your daughter with the issues she may be struggling with such as self-esteem, anxiety, self-harming, etc. We have a new location in Bethesda now! Offering virtual therapy for the entire state of Maryland & DC!
![Photo of Ursula Towles, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d677734-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ursula Towles
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
California, MD 20619
Life's storms come to each of us. We can feel overwhelmed, weary, anxious, alone, or stuck. Change, pain, & loss occur or events happen that cause deep trauma. Sometimes even the mundane day-to-day aspects of life can take a toll or addictions rule what was once our life. Let Discovery Harbor Counseling Center help chart a new course that puts you back at the helm of your life! You do NOT have to weather the storm alone! The atmosphere is warm, friendly, & always professional. Conveniently located, evening & weekend appointments are available, & protection of your confidentiality is upheld 100%.
Life's storms come to each of us. We can feel overwhelmed, weary, anxious, alone, or stuck. Change, pain, & loss occur or events happen that cause deep trauma. Sometimes even the mundane day-to-day aspects of life can take a toll or addictions rule what was once our life. Let Discovery Harbor Counseling Center help chart a new course that puts you back at the helm of your life! You do NOT have to weather the storm alone! The atmosphere is warm, friendly, & always professional. Conveniently located, evening & weekend appointments are available, & protection of your confidentiality is upheld 100%.
![Photo of Nathan Calvino, MS, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/458fa9a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nathan Calvino
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Leonardtown, MD 20650 (Online Only)
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE. I work with people who struggle with anxiety, mood swings, addictions, and marital problems. Life can be difficult at times, especially when we feel isolated. So often we wear masks for the benefit of those around us, while inside we suffer and abuse ourselves. Few people are truly the person inside that their friends perceive. Fewer still are those completely at peace with themselves.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE. I work with people who struggle with anxiety, mood swings, addictions, and marital problems. Life can be difficult at times, especially when we feel isolated. So often we wear masks for the benefit of those around us, while inside we suffer and abuse ourselves. Few people are truly the person inside that their friends perceive. Fewer still are those completely at peace with themselves.
![Photo of Temeria Wilcox - NP Family Practice, CRNP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb1091fd-c835-4603-a56a-a30439784fe9/3/320x400.jpeg)
NP Family Practice is owned by a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years in the healthcare field. We offer a vairety of services to include offive visits, house calls, video visits, DOT physicals, school and sports physicals, and more. We accept most health insurance plans. We are accepting new patients
NP Family Practice is owned by a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years in the healthcare field. We offer a vairety of services to include offive visits, house calls, video visits, DOT physicals, school and sports physicals, and more. We accept most health insurance plans. We are accepting new patients
![Photo of Jerry Zeitler, MS, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7a48ce5-32bd-4810-a841-9e0decff985c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) in Maryland. I earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University in Sterling, Virginia. I am a retired U.S. Air Force officer and have experience in trauma, depression, anxiety, and addictions counseling. I am passionate about helping people discover the best of themselves so they can flourish. I have been exposed to many life experiences and have learned that we are on a journey in life that includes complex and challenging times. My goal is to help you discover your inner strengths and motivation to navigate through life’s challenges.
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) in Maryland. I earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University in Sterling, Virginia. I am a retired U.S. Air Force officer and have experience in trauma, depression, anxiety, and addictions counseling. I am passionate about helping people discover the best of themselves so they can flourish. I have been exposed to many life experiences and have learned that we are on a journey in life that includes complex and challenging times. My goal is to help you discover your inner strengths and motivation to navigate through life’s challenges.
![Photo of Joy Yelton, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e355816-4879-4159-bfff-9386888292b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Today is a good day. You have taken the first step to a better life by reaching out, and I am happy to be considered as your therapist. I believe caring for our mental health is equally important as caring for our physical health. Let's work through the challenges that might seem too big to overcome. Our goal-driven conversations will provide new insight and skills for lifting the mood and enhancing relationships. Together, we will tear down the walls that are holding you back from emotional wellness so you might thrive and not simply survive.
Today is a good day. You have taken the first step to a better life by reaching out, and I am happy to be considered as your therapist. I believe caring for our mental health is equally important as caring for our physical health. Let's work through the challenges that might seem too big to overcome. Our goal-driven conversations will provide new insight and skills for lifting the mood and enhancing relationships. Together, we will tear down the walls that are holding you back from emotional wellness so you might thrive and not simply survive.
![Photo of Amanda J Enright, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f90ea46-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda J Enright
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leonardtown, MD 20650
I'm so glad that you took the step to find a therapist to help you in your struggles! Life can be hectic and overwhelming and when you're struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, separation/divorce, issues with your children, issues with being a teenager, etc., the overwhelming feelings can get to be too much. I'm here to let you know that there is help in dealing with these struggles and you don't have to continue to carry these issues alone. I encourage you to call me for a free phone consultation.
I'm so glad that you took the step to find a therapist to help you in your struggles! Life can be hectic and overwhelming and when you're struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, separation/divorce, issues with your children, issues with being a teenager, etc., the overwhelming feelings can get to be too much. I'm here to let you know that there is help in dealing with these struggles and you don't have to continue to carry these issues alone. I encourage you to call me for a free phone consultation.
![Photo of Jackie Biscoe, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d2b43ae-5d5b-4d20-a458-a0d5f9428d4f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stress and trauma take a toll on our bodies both mentally and physically. Therapy can help release that energy and process emotions. I tend to connect and work well with professionals with autism.
Stress and trauma take a toll on our bodies both mentally and physically. Therapy can help release that energy and process emotions. I tend to connect and work well with professionals with autism.
See more therapy options for Compton
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Compton, MD
< 10
Therapists in Compton, MD who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Grief |
100% | Parenting |
100% | Other |
100% | Divorce |
100% | Peer Relationships |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Therapists in Compton, MD see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Compton?
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.