Therapists in Cooper County, MO
![Photo of Aneisa Sherrill-Mattox Insight Dynamics, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/615070ed-f348-486b-a9eb-c07184d8923b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aneisa Sherrill-Mattox Insight Dynamics
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boonville, MO 65233
My theoretical approach is based on a holistic approach that helps to identify individual personal strengths and resources to develop more effective coping mechanisms to stress and identify solutions that help an individual develop skills that will influence and change behaviors.
My theoretical approach is based on a holistic approach that helps to identify individual personal strengths and resources to develop more effective coping mechanisms to stress and identify solutions that help an individual develop skills that will influence and change behaviors.
![Photo of Lauren Graham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5de5aaf1-3996-4c5c-9454-024a45332244/1/320x400.png)
Lauren Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boonville, MO 65233 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! My name is Lauren Graham and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri. As a therapist, I specialize in working with both children and adults, catering to a diverse range of mental health needs and providing tailored support and interventions to promote well-being and growth. My approach is trauma-informed and through a strengths-based perspective. We will work together to identify your strengths, needs, goals, and motivations for therapy. I believe each person’s journey is unique and the approach to working with them should be too.
Hello and welcome! My name is Lauren Graham and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri. As a therapist, I specialize in working with both children and adults, catering to a diverse range of mental health needs and providing tailored support and interventions to promote well-being and growth. My approach is trauma-informed and through a strengths-based perspective. We will work together to identify your strengths, needs, goals, and motivations for therapy. I believe each person’s journey is unique and the approach to working with them should be too.
![Photo of Jared Torbet, MEd, LPC, CC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10816c3b-cf08-4a25-9bc2-0b12e056c570/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jared Torbet
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boonville, MO 65233
Do you struggle with anxiety or sadness that affects your day-to-day life, your relationships, or your ability to function? Are you feeling overwhelmed by distractions, disorganization, or procrastination? Or perhaps your relationships are struggling - communication is breaking down, trust is shaken, and intimacy feels distant. I'm here to help! I'm most passionate about couples/family therapy and ADHD coaching. Whether you're a high schooler, college student, or adult professional, I'm dedicated to guiding you through the challenges of ADHD - and to helping you to recognize the incredible strengths of your unique brain.
Do you struggle with anxiety or sadness that affects your day-to-day life, your relationships, or your ability to function? Are you feeling overwhelmed by distractions, disorganization, or procrastination? Or perhaps your relationships are struggling - communication is breaking down, trust is shaken, and intimacy feels distant. I'm here to help! I'm most passionate about couples/family therapy and ADHD coaching. Whether you're a high schooler, college student, or adult professional, I'm dedicated to guiding you through the challenges of ADHD - and to helping you to recognize the incredible strengths of your unique brain.
![Photo of Joshua C Hulen, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2672849-1ea9-40a2-b7b7-4a70b38b9b17/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua C Hulen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boonville, MO 65233 (Online Only)
I offer individual counseling, mindfulness training, EMDR, and life coaching through video chatting. Common focus areas include: personal growth and development, career issues, lifestyle issues, assertive communication, self-esteem, ADHD, anger management, persistent mental health problems, addictions, trauma, and disability. I enjoy positive psychology and prefer to focus on solutions, strengths, and assets. I feel it is important to view each person from their unique cultural experience with a nonjudgmental stance. I believe in the biopsychosocial model and understand health and functioning as being systemic in nature.
I offer individual counseling, mindfulness training, EMDR, and life coaching through video chatting. Common focus areas include: personal growth and development, career issues, lifestyle issues, assertive communication, self-esteem, ADHD, anger management, persistent mental health problems, addictions, trauma, and disability. I enjoy positive psychology and prefer to focus on solutions, strengths, and assets. I feel it is important to view each person from their unique cultural experience with a nonjudgmental stance. I believe in the biopsychosocial model and understand health and functioning as being systemic in nature.
![Photo of Jackie Esser, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6291a042-f6bd-4ec1-800d-7266e574d3a1/3/320x400.png)
Hello! I am a licensed clinical therapist in Columbia, Missouri. Are you experiencing the same patterns over and over again? You cannot help but feel stuck in your mind and body! At TravelingWithin, I help pre-teens, teens, and women with attachment wounds, trauma, eating disorders, and suicidal and self-injurious behaviors.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical therapist in Columbia, Missouri. Are you experiencing the same patterns over and over again? You cannot help but feel stuck in your mind and body! At TravelingWithin, I help pre-teens, teens, and women with attachment wounds, trauma, eating disorders, and suicidal and self-injurious behaviors.
![Photo of Victoria Warren, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c5cb27a-a7c8-4064-acdd-5f59d73417d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Warren
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
Boonville, MO 65233
Waitlist for new clients
I assist clients who desire to experience their relationship with self and others in a more holistic way. I strive to create a shame free environment where I can empathetically listen to clients and understand who they are in context to their own life experiences. I incorporate movement, and yoga based principles into my work with clients when the therapeutic process calls for it. It is my intention to support clients in their therapeutic journey by assisting them in becoming more aware of their own emotions, thoughts, and communication patterns in their relationships.
I assist clients who desire to experience their relationship with self and others in a more holistic way. I strive to create a shame free environment where I can empathetically listen to clients and understand who they are in context to their own life experiences. I incorporate movement, and yoga based principles into my work with clients when the therapeutic process calls for it. It is my intention to support clients in their therapeutic journey by assisting them in becoming more aware of their own emotions, thoughts, and communication patterns in their relationships.
![Photo of Ashley Geiger, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9083e08-45a7-4524-9a38-45f0e3a2a2e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking counseling is a huge first step and I am already proud of you for looking for the right therapeutic fit! When we have experienced childhood neglect and abuse, sexual trauma, or a life filled with uncertainty and instability, it may manifest into unhealthy behaviors and relationships in adulthood. Maybe you are struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, emotion dysregulation, low self-esteem, or unhealthy coping behaviors. If so, we may be a great fit! Additionally, I work with those who have experienced betrayal trauma, DNA trauma, divorce, and spiritual/religious abuse.
Seeking counseling is a huge first step and I am already proud of you for looking for the right therapeutic fit! When we have experienced childhood neglect and abuse, sexual trauma, or a life filled with uncertainty and instability, it may manifest into unhealthy behaviors and relationships in adulthood. Maybe you are struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, emotion dysregulation, low self-esteem, or unhealthy coping behaviors. If so, we may be a great fit! Additionally, I work with those who have experienced betrayal trauma, DNA trauma, divorce, and spiritual/religious abuse.
![Photo of Angela Pearman, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a6dcda5-0afd-44a3-8929-1da7fff01521/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m Angela. My specialty is guiding women through difficult life transitions. I can help you through the stress and anxiety of a career change, divorce, a move, a new role or identity, or the ending of an era. I’m especially experienced and passionate about helping women through the menopausal transition. These transitions are often met with loss of identity, anxiety, loneliness, stigma or dismissal, where women feel lost, overwhelmed and misunderstood. I’m deeply committed to empowering women, helping them rediscover their identities and values in the midst of a significant life change, as well as developing coping skills.
Hi, I’m Angela. My specialty is guiding women through difficult life transitions. I can help you through the stress and anxiety of a career change, divorce, a move, a new role or identity, or the ending of an era. I’m especially experienced and passionate about helping women through the menopausal transition. These transitions are often met with loss of identity, anxiety, loneliness, stigma or dismissal, where women feel lost, overwhelmed and misunderstood. I’m deeply committed to empowering women, helping them rediscover their identities and values in the midst of a significant life change, as well as developing coping skills.
![Photo of Leslee Fray, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a917d8f9-bf47-40c8-a4ec-35a1caddb393/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leslee Fray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Boonville, MO 65233 (Online Only)
Sometimes the hardest part of the journey to healing and self-growth, is deciding to reach out for help. It can be daunting to find the right therapist with whom you feel supported, non-judged, and safe. I think a sense of humor is always important. Here is a little about me so you can decide if we might be a good match.
Sometimes the hardest part of the journey to healing and self-growth, is deciding to reach out for help. It can be daunting to find the right therapist with whom you feel supported, non-judged, and safe. I think a sense of humor is always important. Here is a little about me so you can decide if we might be a good match.
![Photo of Paula K Caldwell, MA, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5356b69f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paula K Caldwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boonville, MO 65233
Hello! My specialties include: Substance Use/Addictions; Grief and Loss; Life Transitions as well as Anxiety and Depression. In addition, I have experience as a Spiritual and Christian counselor. People pursue counseling for a variety of reasons. Emotional pain is often associated with one's desire to seek professional help. A client's expressed needs, issues and goals are vital to moving forward with the development of individualized treatment goals.
Hello! My specialties include: Substance Use/Addictions; Grief and Loss; Life Transitions as well as Anxiety and Depression. In addition, I have experience as a Spiritual and Christian counselor. People pursue counseling for a variety of reasons. Emotional pain is often associated with one's desire to seek professional help. A client's expressed needs, issues and goals are vital to moving forward with the development of individualized treatment goals.
![Photo of Rachel Jones, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e850980d-e3e1-496f-bb48-ec844a582989/1/320x400.png)
I work with individuals ages 3 and older navigating a wide variety of concerns including but not limited to Autism and ASD-related concerns, behavioral issues in children, adoption, and developmental disabilities. I have particular experience working with caregiver(s), children, and teens facing significant life changes and coping with medical and developmental diagnosis. Together with you, we can determine if individual, family, parenting, or couples' sessions would best suit your needs.
I work with individuals ages 3 and older navigating a wide variety of concerns including but not limited to Autism and ASD-related concerns, behavioral issues in children, adoption, and developmental disabilities. I have particular experience working with caregiver(s), children, and teens facing significant life changes and coping with medical and developmental diagnosis. Together with you, we can determine if individual, family, parenting, or couples' sessions would best suit your needs.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Matthew L Baker, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ce165da-5a83-4c59-8dba-efbb1c24716a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew L Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
Change is possible. Just because you've done the same thing over and over, doesn't mean today can't be different. Most of us know what change that we'd like to make. However, our instincts are to cling to what gets us through the day and avoid meaningful change. The good news is that we can learn to act effectively to welcome change instead of push it away. At times, we need help to face the places where we need to improve. Positive change does not happen overnight. My goal is to find what what works. I focus on evidence-based and practical strategies to help my clients improve their lives and emotional well-being.
Change is possible. Just because you've done the same thing over and over, doesn't mean today can't be different. Most of us know what change that we'd like to make. However, our instincts are to cling to what gets us through the day and avoid meaningful change. The good news is that we can learn to act effectively to welcome change instead of push it away. At times, we need help to face the places where we need to improve. Positive change does not happen overnight. My goal is to find what what works. I focus on evidence-based and practical strategies to help my clients improve their lives and emotional well-being.
![Photo of Gary Wolf, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, CFT-I™](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420d9fc9-7f94-419c-acbc-4e0575855a15/2/320x400.png)
Money is a leading cause of emotional pain and family conflict. From income discrepancies between partners to intractable sibling conflict, finances are often a point of contention. Money is also the leading cause of stress in the US, and it takes courage to address it because it usually triggers underlying issues. In a changing cultural environment, managing these issues can seem overwhelming and isolating, particularly for men. As a licensed psychotherapist shaped by an extensive career in finance, I offer a unique set of skills to help clients change unhealthy patterns from money and family life —and bring relief to the table.
Money is a leading cause of emotional pain and family conflict. From income discrepancies between partners to intractable sibling conflict, finances are often a point of contention. Money is also the leading cause of stress in the US, and it takes courage to address it because it usually triggers underlying issues. In a changing cultural environment, managing these issues can seem overwhelming and isolating, particularly for men. As a licensed psychotherapist shaped by an extensive career in finance, I offer a unique set of skills to help clients change unhealthy patterns from money and family life —and bring relief to the table.
![Photo of Amber King, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4827240a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Growth is painful, change is painful, but nothing is as painful as being stuck somewhere you don't belong." Life is a journey and oftentimes along our journey we go through difficult life transitions that can feel impossible to overcome. We may go through feelings of being stuck in the same emotional states, unhealthy relationships or communication patterns that leave us feeling empty and yearning for change. When our lives begin feeling this way, finding a positive support can be crucial in navigating these changes we need to feel better.
"Growth is painful, change is painful, but nothing is as painful as being stuck somewhere you don't belong." Life is a journey and oftentimes along our journey we go through difficult life transitions that can feel impossible to overcome. We may go through feelings of being stuck in the same emotional states, unhealthy relationships or communication patterns that leave us feeling empty and yearning for change. When our lives begin feeling this way, finding a positive support can be crucial in navigating these changes we need to feel better.
![Photo of Amanda Spiegel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d998b8c3-c6a1-4dfb-b656-58715dcdec34/2/320x400.png)
Amanda Spiegel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plattsburg, MO 64477 (Online Only)
I enjoy watching people grow and being a part of their journey. Whether its healing from trauma, developing self worth or struggling with relationships, everyone deserves to feel validated and heard.
I enjoy watching people grow and being a part of their journey. Whether its healing from trauma, developing self worth or struggling with relationships, everyone deserves to feel validated and heard.
![Photo of Lacey Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0b997fb-1ba6-4a92-bc27-0d30c9319006/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lacey has been counseling for over 10 years. She has worked with individuals, couples, and teens with various needs, including anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, situational difficulties, etc. If you are in need right now, allow her to come along side you and provide additional support.
Lacey has been counseling for over 10 years. She has worked with individuals, couples, and teens with various needs, including anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, situational difficulties, etc. If you are in need right now, allow her to come along side you and provide additional support.
![Photo of Hannah Bidwell, NCC, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/142c33a7-a485-44bc-8060-dc578aaf741e/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! You did it. You are here. You are already on your way. My name is Hannah and I am here to support you in your journey toward healing, meaning, and hope. Therapy is an opportunity to gain insight and improve your mental and emotional wellness. I am open to sharing my skill sets and working alongside you to provide support on your journey to unpack and discover the ways in which you can thrive and come home to yourself. I work primarily with children, adolescents, and women coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and relationship issues.
Welcome! You did it. You are here. You are already on your way. My name is Hannah and I am here to support you in your journey toward healing, meaning, and hope. Therapy is an opportunity to gain insight and improve your mental and emotional wellness. I am open to sharing my skill sets and working alongside you to provide support on your journey to unpack and discover the ways in which you can thrive and come home to yourself. I work primarily with children, adolescents, and women coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, and relationship issues.
![Photo of Jeremy Lotz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/615303b1-7cc4-45a5-9211-ff759fee6755/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Lotz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I'm an Individual & Family Therapist licensed since 2005. My background includes 12 years (2005-2017) working full-time in long-term inpatient programs for teens as a therapist & training director before I opened a private practice in 2017. My advanced training allows me to treat a broad scope of issues but I don't pretend to specialize in everything! Specializing only in: 1) Teens / Young adults, 2) Parenting & 3) Christian counseling. I have 20+ years of student ministry & ministry leadership experience. My career in residential care has trained me to treat the toughest challenges teens, young adults, & families can face.
I'm an Individual & Family Therapist licensed since 2005. My background includes 12 years (2005-2017) working full-time in long-term inpatient programs for teens as a therapist & training director before I opened a private practice in 2017. My advanced training allows me to treat a broad scope of issues but I don't pretend to specialize in everything! Specializing only in: 1) Teens / Young adults, 2) Parenting & 3) Christian counseling. I have 20+ years of student ministry & ministry leadership experience. My career in residential care has trained me to treat the toughest challenges teens, young adults, & families can face.
![Photo of Joshua Parmenter, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ae44471-2998-488b-ac3a-df67e694c29a/2/320x400.jpeg)
The road we travel towards living as our truest self is by no means smooth. Often, we have learned messages that get in the way of living authentically, whether it be messages from society, family, peers, strangers, or even ourselves. We may feel lost and uncertain of finding a way forward. We will work together to find ways that you can feel empowered to break free from these messages to live openly and authentically. I love working with many different concerns including healing from traumatic experiences, being present with our emotions, creating positive self-narratives, and providing affirming LGBTQ+ care.
The road we travel towards living as our truest self is by no means smooth. Often, we have learned messages that get in the way of living authentically, whether it be messages from society, family, peers, strangers, or even ourselves. We may feel lost and uncertain of finding a way forward. We will work together to find ways that you can feel empowered to break free from these messages to live openly and authentically. I love working with many different concerns including healing from traumatic experiences, being present with our emotions, creating positive self-narratives, and providing affirming LGBTQ+ care.
![Photo of Becky King, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c62c0d32-6761-4f88-9cbd-ccfc0015449a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults in navigating life and accompanying changes. Challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, are made easier when we partner together to explore those experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults in navigating life and accompanying changes. Challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions, are made easier when we partner together to explore those experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
See more therapy options for Cooper County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Cooper County, MO
10+
Average cost per session
$100
Therapists in Cooper County, MO who prioritize treating:
82% | Anxiety |
82% | Self Esteem |
73% | Relationship Issues |
73% | Stress |
64% | Depression |
64% | Life Transitions |
55% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
83% | Optum |
67% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Cooper County, MO see their clients
73% | In Person and Online | |
27% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Cooper 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.