Therapists in Mecosta County, MI
![Photo of Vince Carter, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f5ed7b8-a52d-433e-9c6d-685bdb925d5a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vince Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Big Rapids, MI 49307 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
When a man needs to fix a car, he finds the right tools. But when a man is feeling unwell on the inside, our society says, 'Man up!' – which is never the answer. Men by nature are problem-solvers, but without the right coping tools, you might be stuck. Shame or pride can hold you back, but don’t let it. Most of the men I work with say going to therapy was the best decision they made to truly solve problems, restore hope, and reclaim their lives. Let me help you to drive your relationships toward intention, passion and purpose.
When a man needs to fix a car, he finds the right tools. But when a man is feeling unwell on the inside, our society says, 'Man up!' – which is never the answer. Men by nature are problem-solvers, but without the right coping tools, you might be stuck. Shame or pride can hold you back, but don’t let it. Most of the men I work with say going to therapy was the best decision they made to truly solve problems, restore hope, and reclaim their lives. Let me help you to drive your relationships toward intention, passion and purpose.
![Photo of Britt Miller - Drunk Driving Assessments - Ascend Counseling LLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f262e0d6-f6a6-4693-9da8-719db2d3fd7e/1/320x400.png)
Drunk Driving Assessments - Ascend Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Big Rapids, MI 49307
We provide fast, professional, substance abuse assessments online from the comfort of your own home. We specialize in providing the substance abuse assessment needed for your upcoming court case, probation requirement, driver's license restoration, or for military service needs. We generally can get clients scheduled, tested, interviewed, and their substance abuse assessment completed within 5-7 days. We charge $250 for our court/probation or military referred substance abuse assessments and $450 for our secretary of state license restoration assessments (SOS-258).
We provide fast, professional, substance abuse assessments online from the comfort of your own home. We specialize in providing the substance abuse assessment needed for your upcoming court case, probation requirement, driver's license restoration, or for military service needs. We generally can get clients scheduled, tested, interviewed, and their substance abuse assessment completed within 5-7 days. We charge $250 for our court/probation or military referred substance abuse assessments and $450 for our secretary of state license restoration assessments (SOS-258).
![Photo of Caroline Velasquez, DSW, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd4c81d4-7b47-4473-abf5-d9257cbfdf6a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Velasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Big Rapids, MI 49307
Do you ever feel stuck? Does it seem as though no matter what you do, you can't move beyond your past? Do you worry about your ability to succeed in life? Does it ever seem like your mind does not turn off? If you can relate to any of these statements, I might be able to help you.
Do you ever feel stuck? Does it seem as though no matter what you do, you can't move beyond your past? Do you worry about your ability to succeed in life? Does it ever seem like your mind does not turn off? If you can relate to any of these statements, I might be able to help you.
![Photo of Jo Meyer Mindful Direction Counseling, LMSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27b51b02-ef2f-4706-a25a-a8306a76ceca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jo Meyer Mindful Direction Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Mecosta, MI 49332
I want to help people feel better. You don't have to have extreme TRAUMA to need trauma work. You don't have to be suicidal to know that depression is a part of your life. You don't have to experience a panic attack to be having problems with anxiety. We all experience different levels of these problems in our lives and my goal is to work through these concerns and make a stronger person through a therapeutic relationship.
I want to help people feel better. You don't have to have extreme TRAUMA to need trauma work. You don't have to be suicidal to know that depression is a part of your life. You don't have to experience a panic attack to be having problems with anxiety. We all experience different levels of these problems in our lives and my goal is to work through these concerns and make a stronger person through a therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Heidi Weipert, MA, LPC, NCC, ACTP, DCMHS-T, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93806c73-f22b-4250-8724-e159b8a3e874/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Weipert
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ACTP, DCMHS-T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Big Rapids, MI 49307
Not accepting new clients
Come as you! Let's work together to better understand and address challenges in your life. Working through personal difficulties with a trusted counselor can help improve personal regulations skills which allows for being more present with others and living with intention. You are welcome here!
Come as you! Let's work together to better understand and address challenges in your life. Working through personal difficulties with a trusted counselor can help improve personal regulations skills which allows for being more present with others and living with intention. You are welcome here!
![Photo of Elise R Moore, MA , LLP, CAADC, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4989cef0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elise R Moore
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA , LLP, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Big Rapids, MI 49307
In over 25 years of connecting and working with people, the most common feedback received from clients is an appreciation for the comfortable, relaxed, and supportive therapeutic relationship I strive to promote. I value the collaboration in working alongside my clients as they invest in working to identify goals, obstacles, road blocks, and strive to integrate effective solutions to achieving positive growth and change. A key component of this proven process is to develop a therapeutic strategy and approach that best meets the individual's expressed needs and desires to support positive life change.
In over 25 years of connecting and working with people, the most common feedback received from clients is an appreciation for the comfortable, relaxed, and supportive therapeutic relationship I strive to promote. I value the collaboration in working alongside my clients as they invest in working to identify goals, obstacles, road blocks, and strive to integrate effective solutions to achieving positive growth and change. A key component of this proven process is to develop a therapeutic strategy and approach that best meets the individual's expressed needs and desires to support positive life change.
![Photo of Michael J Bausano - Resilience North, LLC, LMSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e69d5784-3eb1-4285-9161-dd40d9786da5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Resilience North, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
Big Rapids, MI 49307
I am honored to serve educators, health-care professionals, military veterans and members of the first responder community with a range of therapeutic services designed to enhance individual capacity, mitigate the adverse impact of stress and trauma, while supporting team cohesion and mission-readiness. The triad of services available through Resilience North include individual counseling, critical incident stress management training, and adventure therapy. Services are specifically tailored to meet both individual and group needs.
I am honored to serve educators, health-care professionals, military veterans and members of the first responder community with a range of therapeutic services designed to enhance individual capacity, mitigate the adverse impact of stress and trauma, while supporting team cohesion and mission-readiness. The triad of services available through Resilience North include individual counseling, critical incident stress management training, and adventure therapy. Services are specifically tailored to meet both individual and group needs.
![Photo of Britt Miller, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/909a6981-0f12-4c17-a265-acee486be1d0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, anger issues? Negative thoughts or traumatic events, small or large, can shape the way you view yourself and those around you, which can lead to a multitude of mental health issues. These often include depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, substance abuse, relationship difficulties and other mental health problems. Everyone deserves a life worth living. Unresolved trauma or unaddressed mental health issues can prevent that from happening. I work exclusively with adult clients.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, anger issues? Negative thoughts or traumatic events, small or large, can shape the way you view yourself and those around you, which can lead to a multitude of mental health issues. These often include depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, substance abuse, relationship difficulties and other mental health problems. Everyone deserves a life worth living. Unresolved trauma or unaddressed mental health issues can prevent that from happening. I work exclusively with adult clients.
![Photo of Tina Monette, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff7389c8-0434-45b3-ac5a-6b8960e30138/2/320x400.jpeg)
Scared? Uncertain? Feeling like no one will understand how you feel or know how to help? Do you think that even a “professional” will judge you or not understand what you’re going through? I get it… Making the decision to ask for help is hard- it takes courage. I think most of us would like to think we can deal with whatever life throws at us- until we can’t. … and the shit hits the proverbial fan. My goal is to help you confront the issue(s) standing in the way of the life you want. You don’t have to do it alone. Sometimes we all need a new perspective to consider. In the most simplistic of terms, that’s what therapy is about.
Scared? Uncertain? Feeling like no one will understand how you feel or know how to help? Do you think that even a “professional” will judge you or not understand what you’re going through? I get it… Making the decision to ask for help is hard- it takes courage. I think most of us would like to think we can deal with whatever life throws at us- until we can’t. … and the shit hits the proverbial fan. My goal is to help you confront the issue(s) standing in the way of the life you want. You don’t have to do it alone. Sometimes we all need a new perspective to consider. In the most simplistic of terms, that’s what therapy is about.
![Photo of Thomas J. Rundquist - Nova Counseling Associates Inc, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdd2a52-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Over 40 years of experience Tom Rundquist, M.A. LPC can help you get through your situation with new satisfaction. Great rates and open 7 days a week to accommodate anyone at any point in time.Next day appointments upon request. Tom is a holistic health practitioner. Editor of a prevention game Horse is Boss (Drug Culture Monopoly) 3rd Ed.based on his recovering ex-addicts in Detroit.See Amazon. Located on N.State ( Business North US 131) across from Old Airport Hanger, two houses south of Rivertown Realty. By appointment only. If driver gets false alcohol reading on interlock, do ETG urine ($40).
Over 40 years of experience Tom Rundquist, M.A. LPC can help you get through your situation with new satisfaction. Great rates and open 7 days a week to accommodate anyone at any point in time.Next day appointments upon request. Tom is a holistic health practitioner. Editor of a prevention game Horse is Boss (Drug Culture Monopoly) 3rd Ed.based on his recovering ex-addicts in Detroit.See Amazon. Located on N.State ( Business North US 131) across from Old Airport Hanger, two houses south of Rivertown Realty. By appointment only. If driver gets false alcohol reading on interlock, do ETG urine ($40).
![Photo of Jennifer Helsel-Battle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01484185-ea82-4248-ba92-6200bb8106ad/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Helsel-Battle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Big Rapids, MI 49307
Do you long to have a more fulfilling life? Is something getting in your way, keeping you stuck from truly living life and experiencing joy? Is pain from your past or worries about the future making it hard to enjoy the present? If any of these statements sound like you, I want you to know there is hope! Hello, I am Jen, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan. I have worked with children, individuals, couples, and families for over 25+ years.
Do you long to have a more fulfilling life? Is something getting in your way, keeping you stuck from truly living life and experiencing joy? Is pain from your past or worries about the future making it hard to enjoy the present? If any of these statements sound like you, I want you to know there is hope! Hello, I am Jen, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan. I have worked with children, individuals, couples, and families for over 25+ years.
![Photo of Omar L Mangrum, MA, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bed9ace-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In the 30 plus years I have worked as a psychologist, the most frequent comment I hear from clients is that they appreciate my warmth, plainspoken feedback, and practical suggestions for change. I have worked effectively with people of all ages, orientation, and ethnicity over a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, and health related problems. Treatment interventions I have used over the years include cognitive behavioral techniques, traditional counseling, biofeedback, hypnosis, and family therapy among others. I look forward to talking with you!
In the 30 plus years I have worked as a psychologist, the most frequent comment I hear from clients is that they appreciate my warmth, plainspoken feedback, and practical suggestions for change. I have worked effectively with people of all ages, orientation, and ethnicity over a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, and health related problems. Treatment interventions I have used over the years include cognitive behavioral techniques, traditional counseling, biofeedback, hypnosis, and family therapy among others. I look forward to talking with you!
![Photo of Karen Dunham, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eb87cdb-4004-4cca-ad42-8e8add53bf82/2/320x400.jpeg)
All of us need to feel a sense of worth; that life has purpose. It is often hard to deal with difficult life events and experiences without the support of a trusted, trained counselor. I believe in creating safety and trust for the change process. I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 25 years. I know that change often means examining our physical and emotional well being and developing strategies to unlock patterns of coping that are not helpful. I offer an approach based on training, trust and a resolve to help others find better ways to live.
All of us need to feel a sense of worth; that life has purpose. It is often hard to deal with difficult life events and experiences without the support of a trusted, trained counselor. I believe in creating safety and trust for the change process. I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 25 years. I know that change often means examining our physical and emotional well being and developing strategies to unlock patterns of coping that are not helpful. I offer an approach based on training, trust and a resolve to help others find better ways to live.
![Photo of Jerilyn Ann Taylor, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4899f14b-4324-4281-a289-659f0b0e149f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jerilyn Ann Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Paris, MI 49338
Waitlist for new clients
Life can feel overwhelming to everyone at times! You are trying to balance work/family, friends, social life, as well as your own physical and mental health. Finding balance is something everyone can struggle with. I want to help you work toward finding balance in your physical health, emotional and spiritual health. Once a person finds that balance, everything falls into place. Grades/work performance improves, self-esteem builds, relationships improve, and we move toward a place of finding inner peace. I have seen thousands of people reclaim their life and want to help you do the same!
Life can feel overwhelming to everyone at times! You are trying to balance work/family, friends, social life, as well as your own physical and mental health. Finding balance is something everyone can struggle with. I want to help you work toward finding balance in your physical health, emotional and spiritual health. Once a person finds that balance, everything falls into place. Grades/work performance improves, self-esteem builds, relationships improve, and we move toward a place of finding inner peace. I have seen thousands of people reclaim their life and want to help you do the same!
![Photo of Cindy Smith, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4786c95b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Let's work together to change your story. Your health and mental wellness are important to me. I will do what I can through our counseling connection to move you forward in a positive direction. I am passionate about and committed to empowering you to make choices and implement change toward life balance and wellness. My priority is maintaining a trusting, safe, productive, and private relationship with you.
Let's work together to change your story. Your health and mental wellness are important to me. I will do what I can through our counseling connection to move you forward in a positive direction. I am passionate about and committed to empowering you to make choices and implement change toward life balance and wellness. My priority is maintaining a trusting, safe, productive, and private relationship with you.
![Photo of Matthew Bradley, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf5b24f8-b235-45a6-b4a2-e408607fec1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Going to a therapist is hard work. Just thinking about talking through our anxiety, sadness, trauma, or any other issues can be so much that we push the thoughts away. While this can work for a little while, our feelings cannot be ignored for long. Eventually it catches up with us. I am here to reduce those feelings by making counseling the most inviting and comfortable experience possible. We will work together to sort out what is distressing and ways to reduce it so that it no longer has the hold or control over your emotional energy, thoughts, and feelings that it once did.
Going to a therapist is hard work. Just thinking about talking through our anxiety, sadness, trauma, or any other issues can be so much that we push the thoughts away. While this can work for a little while, our feelings cannot be ignored for long. Eventually it catches up with us. I am here to reduce those feelings by making counseling the most inviting and comfortable experience possible. We will work together to sort out what is distressing and ways to reduce it so that it no longer has the hold or control over your emotional energy, thoughts, and feelings that it once did.
![Photo of Calli Lynn Johnson, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c72d5fbd-c08b-4cfa-8662-afba99007db1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Calli Lynn Johnson
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Big Rapids, MI 49307 (Online Only)
I might be a good fit for you if you are 18 or older and struggling with anxiety, depression, recent or past trauma, work stress, relationships, figuring out who you are and/or what your values are in life. You might be responsive to me if you want to engage in deep conversations about a variety of things in your life that may be connected to your current distress. We will work together to help you identify what your values are, and work on bringing your thoughts and behaviors and decisions in line with your values to live a more satisfying life.
I might be a good fit for you if you are 18 or older and struggling with anxiety, depression, recent or past trauma, work stress, relationships, figuring out who you are and/or what your values are in life. You might be responsive to me if you want to engage in deep conversations about a variety of things in your life that may be connected to your current distress. We will work together to help you identify what your values are, and work on bringing your thoughts and behaviors and decisions in line with your values to live a more satisfying life.
![Photo of Amy Lilienthal, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4349258c-0c47-4398-834b-26cbee295b68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Come as you are! Let's work together to understand the tough parts of your life and find ways to improve it. Talking to a therapist you trust about your problems can help you learn new ways to deal with them, making you more present with other people and giving your life more meaning.
Come as you are! Let's work together to understand the tough parts of your life and find ways to improve it. Talking to a therapist you trust about your problems can help you learn new ways to deal with them, making you more present with other people and giving your life more meaning.
![Photo of Deanna Heath - Deanna Heath Mt. Pleasant Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/088016e9-441e-4ac2-b9e1-ef7e0f2fb40f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deanna Heath Mt. Pleasant Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Stanwood, MI 49346
Change is difficult for everyone. Whether it is in ourselves, from life situations or in a relationship, roadblocks often keep us from living the best life possible. I enjoy working with people to make positive changes, enhancing their lives. I welcome new clients and look forward to working with you.
Change is difficult for everyone. Whether it is in ourselves, from life situations or in a relationship, roadblocks often keep us from living the best life possible. I enjoy working with people to make positive changes, enhancing their lives. I welcome new clients and look forward to working with you.
![Photo of Donal James Dwyer V - Chapters Counseling, LLC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45fa7202-747c-44bd-8006-de7652c0ed9d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a lot of experience helping teenagers and adults through therapy focused on trauma. I offer therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I use different approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and EMDR, to ensure the best outcomes.
I have a lot of experience helping teenagers and adults through therapy focused on trauma. I offer therapy for individuals, couples, and families. I use different approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and EMDR, to ensure the best outcomes.
See more therapy options for Mecosta County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Mecosta County, MI
30+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in Mecosta County, MI who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
84% | Trauma and PTSD |
81% | Stress |
78% | Coping Skills |
72% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
86% | Priority Health |
66% | Blue Care Network |
How Therapists in Mecosta County, MI see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
24% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Mecosta County?
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.