Therapists in Normal, IL

Photo of Zoe Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoe Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Welcome to a Safe Haven for Young Minds! Hey there, wonderful parents and caregivers! Are you seeking a compassionate and skilled ally for your child's emotional well-being? Look no further! I'm Zoe Baker, LCSW, a dedicated and empathetic child and adolescent psychologist here at Psychology Today. My passion lies in creating a nurturing space where young hearts can flourish. With a specialization in trauma, emotional regulation, attachment issues, anxiety, and depression, I am committed to helping your children aged 4 to 16 navigate the complexities of their emotions.
Welcome to a Safe Haven for Young Minds! Hey there, wonderful parents and caregivers! Are you seeking a compassionate and skilled ally for your child's emotional well-being? Look no further! I'm Zoe Baker, LCSW, a dedicated and empathetic child and adolescent psychologist here at Psychology Today. My passion lies in creating a nurturing space where young hearts can flourish. With a specialization in trauma, emotional regulation, attachment issues, anxiety, and depression, I am committed to helping your children aged 4 to 16 navigate the complexities of their emotions.
(309) 316-7605 View (309) 316-7605
Photo of Joan Gjesfjeld, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joan Gjesfjeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Are you wondering if you can find an experienced therapist who “gets you,” someone you can trust and who will be in your corner? You’ll find that I’m the kind of therapist who really listens, is reliable and supportive. My commitment is to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental relationship that allows you to solve problems at your own pace. Our work together will help you deepen self awareness, increase compassion for yourself and others, and resolve old patterns that no longer serve you.
Are you wondering if you can find an experienced therapist who “gets you,” someone you can trust and who will be in your corner? You’ll find that I’m the kind of therapist who really listens, is reliable and supportive. My commitment is to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental relationship that allows you to solve problems at your own pace. Our work together will help you deepen self awareness, increase compassion for yourself and others, and resolve old patterns that no longer serve you.
(309) 365-6259 View (309) 365-6259
Photo of Justin Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
I work with a variety of issues using therapeutic techniques with faith-based counseling to help my clients in overcoming difficulties through identifying and changing dysfunctional thinking, behavior, and emotional responses. Whether you’re familiar with therapy or this is your first time reaching out, I look forward to hearing from you.
I work with a variety of issues using therapeutic techniques with faith-based counseling to help my clients in overcoming difficulties through identifying and changing dysfunctional thinking, behavior, and emotional responses. Whether you’re familiar with therapy or this is your first time reaching out, I look forward to hearing from you.
(309) 274-0468 View (309) 274-0468
Photo of Shannon Griffith, MS, LCPC
Shannon Griffith
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Currently accepting new clients. Everyone deserves to have a place that feels safe and nonjugmental to explore their emotions and untangle their thoughts. I love to help people create a different relationship with themselves and build skills to manage intrusive thoughts that seem embarrassing, shameful, bad, or wrong. They may make it difficult to cope with balancing school, work, and tasks at home including taking care of yourself. It is important to me to get a picture of you as a whole person, rather than just focusing on treating symptoms.
Currently accepting new clients. Everyone deserves to have a place that feels safe and nonjugmental to explore their emotions and untangle their thoughts. I love to help people create a different relationship with themselves and build skills to manage intrusive thoughts that seem embarrassing, shameful, bad, or wrong. They may make it difficult to cope with balancing school, work, and tasks at home including taking care of yourself. It is important to me to get a picture of you as a whole person, rather than just focusing on treating symptoms.
(309) 244-1563 View (309) 244-1563
Photo of Jennifer Hamilton, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer Hamilton
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor I know the importance of providing a safe and encouraging environment to make important decisions and changes. Seeking help is an act of both courage and vulnerability, and I meet these strengths with compassion, warmth, and understanding. My approach to therapy emphasizes your personal values and views relationships as the most important aspect of our lives.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor I know the importance of providing a safe and encouraging environment to make important decisions and changes. Seeking help is an act of both courage and vulnerability, and I meet these strengths with compassion, warmth, and understanding. My approach to therapy emphasizes your personal values and views relationships as the most important aspect of our lives.
(309) 588-4304 View (309) 588-4304
Photo of Sara Livengood, LSW
Sara Livengood
LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Every relationship faces challenges, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m passionate about helping couples like you work through issues such as communication breakdowns and infidelity. My goal is to support you in achieving a more connected and fulfilling partnership. I am Level 2 trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, which utilizes research based methods to assist you in improving your relationship. Sunday appointments available to fit your busy schedule and ensure you don’t miss out on essential therapy sessions. I offer a non-judgmental approach utilizing humor and empathy to help you reach your goals.
Every relationship faces challenges, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. I’m passionate about helping couples like you work through issues such as communication breakdowns and infidelity. My goal is to support you in achieving a more connected and fulfilling partnership. I am Level 2 trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, which utilizes research based methods to assist you in improving your relationship. Sunday appointments available to fit your busy schedule and ensure you don’t miss out on essential therapy sessions. I offer a non-judgmental approach utilizing humor and empathy to help you reach your goals.
(309) 425-2763 View (309) 425-2763
Photo of Karem Muksed, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karem Muksed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Karem Muksed brings a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate the complexities of their emotional experiences and discover a life aligned with their values. Karem works alongside clients to address their ineffective coping strategies, habits and core beliefs that are often manifestations of intense suffering. Although this work is quite challenging, and at times can be painful, it can be quite meaningful and helpful in creating a life worth living and a sense of belonging.
Karem Muksed brings a deep commitment to helping individuals navigate the complexities of their emotional experiences and discover a life aligned with their values. Karem works alongside clients to address their ineffective coping strategies, habits and core beliefs that are often manifestations of intense suffering. Although this work is quite challenging, and at times can be painful, it can be quite meaningful and helpful in creating a life worth living and a sense of belonging.
(309) 504-0603 View (309) 504-0603
Photo of Heidi J Larsen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi J Larsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
It takes great courage to recognize when things aren’t working and seek help. Do you feel like you’re stuck, and try as you might, find yourself repeating the same patterns? Have you been struggling with relationship problems? Are you feeling that despite your best efforts you’re not enough? Maybe you can’t name the source of unrest, hopelessness and pain but know that something needs to change? You’re not alone, there is another way and I’m here to help.
It takes great courage to recognize when things aren’t working and seek help. Do you feel like you’re stuck, and try as you might, find yourself repeating the same patterns? Have you been struggling with relationship problems? Are you feeling that despite your best efforts you’re not enough? Maybe you can’t name the source of unrest, hopelessness and pain but know that something needs to change? You’re not alone, there is another way and I’m here to help.
(309) 808-6211 View (309) 808-6211
Photo of Pamela Jo Elliott - Elliott Counseling Services, LLC, MSEd, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Elliott Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
My philosophy towards therapy and, being a therapist,can be put this way.You can create positive change in your life. You can overcome difficult and even seemingly overwhelming obstacles. The first step is to believe that you are worthy of a better life no matter what the present situation tells you. The next step is to accept that, 'Life is a Journey'. I think there is incredible wisdom and hope in those words; a journey is on-going, and, life gives you opportunities to change as you choose! Sometimes we just need a little help figuring out how to start.
My philosophy towards therapy and, being a therapist,can be put this way.You can create positive change in your life. You can overcome difficult and even seemingly overwhelming obstacles. The first step is to believe that you are worthy of a better life no matter what the present situation tells you. The next step is to accept that, 'Life is a Journey'. I think there is incredible wisdom and hope in those words; a journey is on-going, and, life gives you opportunities to change as you choose! Sometimes we just need a little help figuring out how to start.
(309) 319-6958 View (309) 319-6958
Photo of Jenn Bovee, LCSW, CRADC, CCTP II, CCHt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenn Bovee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, CCTP II, CCHt
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Welcome to the transformative world of EMDR intensives with Jenn Bovee, LCSW. I am passionate about offering a deep, immersive approach to healing that empowers you to achieve meaningful, lasting change. With extensive experience in the field of mental health, my focus is now exclusively on providing EMDR intensives, designed to guide you through a concentrated journey of self-awareness, resilience, and healing. In our time together, we will delve into the complexities of your experiences, especially those involving dissociation, within a safe and supportive space. Join me for a transformative experience!
Welcome to the transformative world of EMDR intensives with Jenn Bovee, LCSW. I am passionate about offering a deep, immersive approach to healing that empowers you to achieve meaningful, lasting change. With extensive experience in the field of mental health, my focus is now exclusively on providing EMDR intensives, designed to guide you through a concentrated journey of self-awareness, resilience, and healing. In our time together, we will delve into the complexities of your experiences, especially those involving dissociation, within a safe and supportive space. Join me for a transformative experience!
(309) 869-7946 View (309) 869-7946
Photo of Lisa N. D. Flanagan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa N. D. Flanagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
I recently retired from more than 25 years in hospice. I have learned so much from my the patients and families in hospice, both in how they approached dying and death, and how learn they learned to live with grief while still finding joy and purpose in their lives. Both as a guide and a witness, I have helped my clients move through their grief to weave their loss into the larger tapestry of their lives. I believe that people can grow through their grief, in spite of the fact that grief really never ends.
I recently retired from more than 25 years in hospice. I have learned so much from my the patients and families in hospice, both in how they approached dying and death, and how learn they learned to live with grief while still finding joy and purpose in their lives. Both as a guide and a witness, I have helped my clients move through their grief to weave their loss into the larger tapestry of their lives. I believe that people can grow through their grief, in spite of the fact that grief really never ends.
(309) 598-1176 View (309) 598-1176
Photo of Jeffrey Graham, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Jeffrey Graham
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Life can often involve a series of setbacks, transitions, difficulties, and challenges that can cause us to feel stuck or lost. My aim is to help clients identify not only what they wish to change or problems they hope to address but also build self-acceptance and self-compassion. I have significant experience working with young adults and college-aged clients but also see adults and adolescents; I have also worked with folks dealing with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, transitions, interpersonal difficulties, and men's mental health.
Life can often involve a series of setbacks, transitions, difficulties, and challenges that can cause us to feel stuck or lost. My aim is to help clients identify not only what they wish to change or problems they hope to address but also build self-acceptance and self-compassion. I have significant experience working with young adults and college-aged clients but also see adults and adolescents; I have also worked with folks dealing with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, transitions, interpersonal difficulties, and men's mental health.
(844) 593-0599 View (844) 593-0599
Photo of Hailey Ramseyer, LSW
Hailey Ramseyer
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Hi there, I'm Hailey, your dedicated ally in helping you navigate the challenges of ADHD, Autism, Trauma, and anxiety. I have a genuine passion for the well-being of teenagers and young adults, and I'm here to provide you with compassionate and tailored support. Come step into a safe and inclusive space where resilience, self-discovery, and empowered mental health take center stage. I bring a wealth of experience and evidence-based interventions, uniquely crafted for each individual. Embark on a transformative journey with me, where understanding meets healing. Let's work together to foster your mental well-being and growth.
Hi there, I'm Hailey, your dedicated ally in helping you navigate the challenges of ADHD, Autism, Trauma, and anxiety. I have a genuine passion for the well-being of teenagers and young adults, and I'm here to provide you with compassionate and tailored support. Come step into a safe and inclusive space where resilience, self-discovery, and empowered mental health take center stage. I bring a wealth of experience and evidence-based interventions, uniquely crafted for each individual. Embark on a transformative journey with me, where understanding meets healing. Let's work together to foster your mental well-being and growth.
(309) 822-9004 View (309) 822-9004
Photo of Angie House, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Angie House
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel stress or anxiety? Does your life feel out of balance? Although you are managing, you might feel like it takes more effort to do what came easily before. Perhaps you feel stuck, and need some guidance and support to get back on track, and moving toward achieving your goals and dreams. Imagine having a comfortable, supportive place where you can be yourself and begin working to change the things preventing you from moving forward and thriving. When working with individuals, I help them identify, explore, and integrate creative and customized solutions to overcome their fears, break down barriers, and get "unstuck."
Do you feel stress or anxiety? Does your life feel out of balance? Although you are managing, you might feel like it takes more effort to do what came easily before. Perhaps you feel stuck, and need some guidance and support to get back on track, and moving toward achieving your goals and dreams. Imagine having a comfortable, supportive place where you can be yourself and begin working to change the things preventing you from moving forward and thriving. When working with individuals, I help them identify, explore, and integrate creative and customized solutions to overcome their fears, break down barriers, and get "unstuck."
(309) 795-6225 View (309) 795-6225
Photo of Jenna Mangold, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Mangold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Sometimes we lose our way in life or we are inhibited by past trauma/grief that can leave us overwhelmed and confused. I believe that you can't always choose your circumstances in life, but you can choose to overcome them. I also believe that you have the power to manage/control your thoughts and feelings instead of allowing them to control you. My goal is to help you work through those past or current issues, overcome those difficult circumstances in life, and to help you gain control over your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to help enhance your well-being.
Sometimes we lose our way in life or we are inhibited by past trauma/grief that can leave us overwhelmed and confused. I believe that you can't always choose your circumstances in life, but you can choose to overcome them. I also believe that you have the power to manage/control your thoughts and feelings instead of allowing them to control you. My goal is to help you work through those past or current issues, overcome those difficult circumstances in life, and to help you gain control over your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to help enhance your well-being.
(309) 265-0740 View (309) 265-0740
Photo of Heather Holl, LCPC, MA, Counselor
Heather Holl
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Many humans suffer from emotional distress and psychological symptoms due to aversive life events. Often times, negative experiences can become “stuck” in our brains impacting how we perceive ourselves, others, or the world. Our beliefs about ourselves can become skewed and negative. As a trauma-trained therapist, I can help you work through these past events and shift these beliefs in order to be able to live the life YOU want to live.
Many humans suffer from emotional distress and psychological symptoms due to aversive life events. Often times, negative experiences can become “stuck” in our brains impacting how we perceive ourselves, others, or the world. Our beliefs about ourselves can become skewed and negative. As a trauma-trained therapist, I can help you work through these past events and shift these beliefs in order to be able to live the life YOU want to live.
(309) 228-2571 View (309) 228-2571
Photo of Emily Watson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, parents! Dive into understanding and guiding Children and Early Teenagers through emotional development. Join us in fostering resilience, emotional intelligence, and positive relationships for a thriving family and academic life. We're a perfect match if you're a wonderful client between 7 to 11 years old, navigating the adventure of understanding and expressing your emotions. Together, we'll create a cozy space to work through any challenges you might be facing at home or school. I work well with trauma, attachment, family, relationships, anger, emotional regulation, adoption, PTSD, foster care, and self-harm.
Welcome, parents! Dive into understanding and guiding Children and Early Teenagers through emotional development. Join us in fostering resilience, emotional intelligence, and positive relationships for a thriving family and academic life. We're a perfect match if you're a wonderful client between 7 to 11 years old, navigating the adventure of understanding and expressing your emotions. Together, we'll create a cozy space to work through any challenges you might be facing at home or school. I work well with trauma, attachment, family, relationships, anger, emotional regulation, adoption, PTSD, foster care, and self-harm.
(309) 503-1192 View (309) 503-1192
Photo of Julia M Bozarth, MA, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Julia M Bozarth
Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Before I was a therapist, I was an educator. For one course, my job was to teach first responders how to get important information from potentially traumatized witnesses/victims. I often wondered what I would do if I were permitted to see the crisis through. I believe it's my combination of a solid background in communication-which includes relationships, gender-speak, assertiveness and self-talk-and my education in Clinical Psychology and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certification that provide for a well-balanced approach to individual counseling.
Before I was a therapist, I was an educator. For one course, my job was to teach first responders how to get important information from potentially traumatized witnesses/victims. I often wondered what I would do if I were permitted to see the crisis through. I believe it's my combination of a solid background in communication-which includes relationships, gender-speak, assertiveness and self-talk-and my education in Clinical Psychology and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certification that provide for a well-balanced approach to individual counseling.
(309) 271-1161 View (309) 271-1161
Photo of Bryan Hinman - Bryan Hinman Counseling PLLC, MA, LCPC
Bryan Hinman Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Couselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Many, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, learn to mask their true selves out of necessity, fearing that revealing their identity will disrupt their lives. Secrets and shame can also fuel addictive behavior, keep folks reliving the past in the present, or existing in a prison of their own fear. Before long one can feel stuck in a repeating loop of private pain others don't even notice. Where to start when you can't speak about it to anyone? Even if someone has strong supports, there is often doubt about whether people would be fully accepted if others knew the truth. If this resonates with you in the slightest, we should talk.
Many, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, learn to mask their true selves out of necessity, fearing that revealing their identity will disrupt their lives. Secrets and shame can also fuel addictive behavior, keep folks reliving the past in the present, or existing in a prison of their own fear. Before long one can feel stuck in a repeating loop of private pain others don't even notice. Where to start when you can't speak about it to anyone? Even if someone has strong supports, there is often doubt about whether people would be fully accepted if others knew the truth. If this resonates with you in the slightest, we should talk.
(309) 446-8829 View (309) 446-8829
Photo of Matthew P Coston, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew P Coston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Welcome! My name is Matt, a licensed Masters of Social Work dedicated to helping individuals heal and thrive. With 2 decades of experience working in mental health, I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, complex PTSD (cPTSD), and depression. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, gain insights, and develop effective coping strategies.
Welcome! My name is Matt, a licensed Masters of Social Work dedicated to helping individuals heal and thrive. With 2 decades of experience working in mental health, I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, complex PTSD (cPTSD), and depression. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, gain insights, and develop effective coping strategies.
(309) 455-5234 View (309) 455-5234

See more therapy options for Normal

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Normal, IL

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Normal, IL who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
90% Depression
83% Self Esteem
81% Relationship Issues
79% Coping Skills
77% Stress
76% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
52% Aetna
49% Health Alliance

How Therapists in Normal, IL see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Normal?

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.