Therapists in Dexter, MO

Photo of Matthew Tompkins - Sounds of Mind Counseling, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sounds of Mind Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dexter, MO 63841
At Sounds of Mind Counseling, our mission is to meet the needs of the community by providing services that are evidence-based, practical, and elicit meaningful change. At the core, relationships are the vehicle to change within counseling. Using a variety of treatment methods, we encourage clients to work toward their identified goals. We appreciate the opportunity to work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents.
At Sounds of Mind Counseling, our mission is to meet the needs of the community by providing services that are evidence-based, practical, and elicit meaningful change. At the core, relationships are the vehicle to change within counseling. Using a variety of treatment methods, we encourage clients to work toward their identified goals. We appreciate the opportunity to work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents.
(573) 282-6506 View (573) 282-6506

Online Therapists

Photo of Summer Johnson, Psychologist
Summer Johnson
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, MO 63640  (Online Only)
Dr. Johnson is originally from Kansas City, MO. She attended undergrad at Truman State University, graduating in 1998. She moved to Atlanta days after graduating to attend the Georgia School of Professional Psychology (Argosy University). She graduated in 2001 with a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in child and family assessment. She transferred schools and moved to Springfield, MO to be closer to home. She graduated from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in 2006 with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy
Dr. Johnson is originally from Kansas City, MO. She attended undergrad at Truman State University, graduating in 1998. She moved to Atlanta days after graduating to attend the Georgia School of Professional Psychology (Argosy University). She graduated in 2001 with a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in child and family assessment. She transferred schools and moved to Springfield, MO to be closer to home. She graduated from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in 2006 with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy
(816) 357-9838 View (816) 357-9838
Photo of Linda Housman, Psychologist
Linda Housman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Farmington, MO 63640  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist working in the area of trauma and trauma-related disorders, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. During my graduate years, I worked with Cognitive Processing Therapy for the treatment of PTSD and now train others in the use of CPT. I have practiced in the Department of Veteran Affairs, working with both combat survivors and military sexual trauma, and most recently within an anxiety disorders unit where I not only treat PTSD but also a host of concomitant issues, such as, dissociative disorders, social anxiety, panic disorders, and generalized anxiety disorder.
I am a licensed psychologist working in the area of trauma and trauma-related disorders, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. During my graduate years, I worked with Cognitive Processing Therapy for the treatment of PTSD and now train others in the use of CPT. I have practiced in the Department of Veteran Affairs, working with both combat survivors and military sexual trauma, and most recently within an anxiety disorders unit where I not only treat PTSD but also a host of concomitant issues, such as, dissociative disorders, social anxiety, panic disorders, and generalized anxiety disorder.
(816) 409-3554 View (816) 409-3554
Photo of Deborah Lucille Kerr, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Deborah Lucille Kerr
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm Deborah, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, and Neuroscientist. What does this mean to you? That I have knowledge of the brain that allows me to more quickly and effectively address your needs. My research-based approach to therapy integrates science, clinical knowledge, and individual attention to help others gain peace in life. Contact me with your referral questions, screening, and to find out if I am right for you!
Welcome! I'm Deborah, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, and Neuroscientist. What does this mean to you? That I have knowledge of the brain that allows me to more quickly and effectively address your needs. My research-based approach to therapy integrates science, clinical knowledge, and individual attention to help others gain peace in life. Contact me with your referral questions, screening, and to find out if I am right for you!
(573) 679-4007 View (573) 679-4007
Photo of Raymond D Paxton, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raymond D Paxton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fisk, MO 63940  (Online Only)
I have been licensed to provide therapy services over 22 years and realize every one's difficulties are unique. History is important and impacts how we view today, and in today's busy and often uncaring world, people need to be listened to and provided the opportunity to talk about their needs and how life is impacting them. They also are looking for solutions.
I have been licensed to provide therapy services over 22 years and realize every one's difficulties are unique. History is important and impacts how we view today, and in today's busy and often uncaring world, people need to be listened to and provided the opportunity to talk about their needs and how life is impacting them. They also are looking for solutions.
(573) 943-0741 View (573) 943-0741
Photo of Diana Dee-Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Dee-Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jackson, MO 63755  (Online Only)
www.sondermind.com/providers/43h71eow/diana-dee-williams I am a Licensed professional counselor in the State of Missouri. "Life is about Becoming a Better Version of Yourself" I have eight years of experience in providing individual and group counseling, assessment screening, and youth services. I provided clinical support for young adults, adolescents, children, and families struggling with life challenges through a mental health outpatient center. For three years, I have provided school based services as a contracted embedded school therapist for the St. Louis Public Schools to help identify those referred students.
www.sondermind.com/providers/43h71eow/diana-dee-williams I am a Licensed professional counselor in the State of Missouri. "Life is about Becoming a Better Version of Yourself" I have eight years of experience in providing individual and group counseling, assessment screening, and youth services. I provided clinical support for young adults, adolescents, children, and families struggling with life challenges through a mental health outpatient center. For three years, I have provided school based services as a contracted embedded school therapist for the St. Louis Public Schools to help identify those referred students.
(573) 409-7704 View (573) 409-7704
Photo of Dr. Paula S Alvarez, MSW, LCSW, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Paula S Alvarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Sainte Genevieve, MO 63670  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in California, Missouri, and Illinois. I am also an Organizational Psychologist. I work individually with adults aged 18 to 99 years. Many of my clients come in to address Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, and Career Transitions. I am particularly passionate about serving clients who want to continue to grow and develop. I also have advanced training in Trauma, Depression, and Anxiety.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in California, Missouri, and Illinois. I am also an Organizational Psychologist. I work individually with adults aged 18 to 99 years. Many of my clients come in to address Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, and Career Transitions. I am particularly passionate about serving clients who want to continue to grow and develop. I also have advanced training in Trauma, Depression, and Anxiety.
(573) 494-5941 View (573) 494-5941
Photo of Amy Elfrink, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Elfrink
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Jackson, MO 63755
Hello! As a counselor who began counseling as a second career, I have a wealth of life experience that I find helpful when meeting with clients. I will combine this life experience with my formal training in order to help you find healing. I enjoy working with clients who have various challenges including grief, trauma, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety. Because I believe our spiritual beliefs are an integral part of who we are, I specialize in helping clients consider how their spiritual beliefs might impact their journey to wholeness.
Hello! As a counselor who began counseling as a second career, I have a wealth of life experience that I find helpful when meeting with clients. I will combine this life experience with my formal training in order to help you find healing. I enjoy working with clients who have various challenges including grief, trauma, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety. Because I believe our spiritual beliefs are an integral part of who we are, I specialize in helping clients consider how their spiritual beliefs might impact their journey to wholeness.
(573) 262-9343 View (573) 262-9343
Photo of Kendra Brooks, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendra Brooks
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Farmington, MO 63640  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing therapeutic and advocacy services to children and adolescents in the areas of individual and family counseling. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified School Counselor in Missouri and Illinois, I have worked with children and adolescents for over 15 years both in both a school and clinical setting. I specialize in the areas of trauma, behavior issues, depression, and anxiety. My key strength is building relationships with my clients while providing that safe place to express themselves. While we can't change what's happened in the past, I believe together we can take the steps in creating
I specialize in providing therapeutic and advocacy services to children and adolescents in the areas of individual and family counseling. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified School Counselor in Missouri and Illinois, I have worked with children and adolescents for over 15 years both in both a school and clinical setting. I specialize in the areas of trauma, behavior issues, depression, and anxiety. My key strength is building relationships with my clients while providing that safe place to express themselves. While we can't change what's happened in the past, I believe together we can take the steps in creating
(816) 477-1136 View (816) 477-1136
Photo of Courtney Kempker, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Kempker
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Festus, MO 63028  (Online Only)
Do you have struggles in relationships or have a trauma history that is still impacting you? I can help you to break out of unhealthy patterns and cope and integrate negative experiences in positive ways. I can help clients to have healthier relationships, a stronger sense of self, better ways to cope with and manage symptoms, and to resolve unprocessed trauma. Achieving these goals means experiencing a higher quality of life. My ideal client is also able to be open minded in exploring their emotions in psychosomatic ways through interventions like brainspotting.
Do you have struggles in relationships or have a trauma history that is still impacting you? I can help you to break out of unhealthy patterns and cope and integrate negative experiences in positive ways. I can help clients to have healthier relationships, a stronger sense of self, better ways to cope with and manage symptoms, and to resolve unprocessed trauma. Achieving these goals means experiencing a higher quality of life. My ideal client is also able to be open minded in exploring their emotions in psychosomatic ways through interventions like brainspotting.
(636) 275-1847 View (636) 275-1847
Photo of Tammy Axtell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammy Axtell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Festus, MO 63028  (Online Only)
My approach in working with others is focusing on a person's strengths and utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy to develop more positive ways of coping with everyday stress that life throws at us. I graduated with my bachelor's degree in social work in 1991. In 2006 i went to graduate school and received my MSW. I am a LCSW and have primarily worked in the mental health field since receiving my master's degree. My top three specialty areas are grief and loss, mood disorders, and trauma. I love helping people and making a difference even if small at times. Therapy is about change and it is very gratifying to see someone struggling
My approach in working with others is focusing on a person's strengths and utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy to develop more positive ways of coping with everyday stress that life throws at us. I graduated with my bachelor's degree in social work in 1991. In 2006 i went to graduate school and received my MSW. I am a LCSW and have primarily worked in the mental health field since receiving my master's degree. My top three specialty areas are grief and loss, mood disorders, and trauma. I love helping people and making a difference even if small at times. Therapy is about change and it is very gratifying to see someone struggling
(417) 665-5925 View (417) 665-5925
Photo of Stoney Withers, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stoney Withers
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Farmington, MO 63640  (Online Only)
Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of clinical mental health experience. I take pride in my ability to be a culturally competent therapist. A vast majority of my background is in serving adolescents with a variety of mental health disorders. I also take pride in being a black male therapist who is determined to change the narrative of what therapy means across minority cultural groups. I truly feel that my purpose in this field is to be a beacon of light for those that may feel alone, ostracized, or unworthy of the life that's been gifted to them.
Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of clinical mental health experience. I take pride in my ability to be a culturally competent therapist. A vast majority of my background is in serving adolescents with a variety of mental health disorders. I also take pride in being a black male therapist who is determined to change the narrative of what therapy means across minority cultural groups. I truly feel that my purpose in this field is to be a beacon of light for those that may feel alone, ostracized, or unworthy of the life that's been gifted to them.
(573) 488-6534 View (573) 488-6534
Photo of Bethany Wybert, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Wybert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jackson, MO 63755  (Online Only)
Bethany Wybert is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Christian Counseling from Central Christian College of the Bible and a Master of Education in Licensed Professional Counseling with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy from Stephens College. Bethany is currently a doctoral student at Liberty University studying Traumatology.
Bethany Wybert is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Christian Counseling from Central Christian College of the Bible and a Master of Education in Licensed Professional Counseling with an emphasis on Marriage and Family Therapy from Stephens College. Bethany is currently a doctoral student at Liberty University studying Traumatology.
(573) 889-2934 View (573) 889-2934
Photo of Adam Pearson - Pearson Psychological and Evaluation Services, MA, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pearson Psychological and Evaluation Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Cape Girardeau, MO 63703
Hi, I'm Adam Pearson. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and was trained by a Psychiatrist for two years. I use a variety of techniques and tools. Therapy is typically 8-16 weeks; around eight weeks, your symptoms should go from Severe to Moderate, and 16-18 weeks, moderate to mild. I practice from a faith-based perspective, but all are welcome. You can text, call, or email; I typically see a new patient within 48-72 hours. I had PTSD, Depression, and OCD and am now free. Now it's your turn! This is where you learn to love and like yourself, maybe for the first time. I have helped 1000s. This is your flying lesson!
Hi, I'm Adam Pearson. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and was trained by a Psychiatrist for two years. I use a variety of techniques and tools. Therapy is typically 8-16 weeks; around eight weeks, your symptoms should go from Severe to Moderate, and 16-18 weeks, moderate to mild. I practice from a faith-based perspective, but all are welcome. You can text, call, or email; I typically see a new patient within 48-72 hours. I had PTSD, Depression, and OCD and am now free. Now it's your turn! This is where you learn to love and like yourself, maybe for the first time. I have helped 1000s. This is your flying lesson!
(618) 657-8594 View (618) 657-8594
Photo of Kevin Raposo, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kevin Raposo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Doniphan, MO 63935
In the world we live in today it is easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious and depressed. The question then becomes how do I navigate through these emotions and who can I trust to help me process my concerns? Let me begin by saying I commend you for taking the first step. No longer do you need to feel alone or remain silent. Together we can walk through life’s struggles and find health and wellness as we live the life you deserve.
In the world we live in today it is easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious and depressed. The question then becomes how do I navigate through these emotions and who can I trust to help me process my concerns? Let me begin by saying I commend you for taking the first step. No longer do you need to feel alone or remain silent. Together we can walk through life’s struggles and find health and wellness as we live the life you deserve.
(573) 943-0911 View (573) 943-0911
Photo of Robert L. Gould, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert L. Gould
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, MO 63640  (Online Only)
I work with people of all ages and genders, and my goal is to help my clients live their best lives, in the way that feels right for them. No matter the reason for seeking counseling, I believe that each person is the expert on their own life. My role is to walk alongside them, offering support and guidance as they navigate life’s challenges. I do this with respect and unconditional positive regard, whether we’re using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to tackle unhelpful thought patterns, Psychodynamic Therapy to break free from past issues, or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to create meaningful behavior changes.
I work with people of all ages and genders, and my goal is to help my clients live their best lives, in the way that feels right for them. No matter the reason for seeking counseling, I believe that each person is the expert on their own life. My role is to walk alongside them, offering support and guidance as they navigate life’s challenges. I do this with respect and unconditional positive regard, whether we’re using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to tackle unhelpful thought patterns, Psychodynamic Therapy to break free from past issues, or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to create meaningful behavior changes.
(573) 731-2724 View (573) 731-2724
Photo of Margaret Dunn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Dunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jackson, MO 63755  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are seeking compassionate support and a safe space to explore their thoughts, emotions, mental actions, and challenges to overcome roadblocks that are hindering their success. As a graduate of the University of IL – Springfield with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling, I have been working in private practice for over 15 years. I am also a Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach and a Certified Life Coach. I call myself a therapeutic coach. This means I help you heal from the past while helping you get to where you want to go in many areas of life.
I work with clients who are seeking compassionate support and a safe space to explore their thoughts, emotions, mental actions, and challenges to overcome roadblocks that are hindering their success. As a graduate of the University of IL – Springfield with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling, I have been working in private practice for over 15 years. I am also a Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach and a Certified Life Coach. I call myself a therapeutic coach. This means I help you heal from the past while helping you get to where you want to go in many areas of life.
(573) 773-4567 View (573) 773-4567
Photo of Jennifer Lane, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Lane
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Festus, MO 63028  (Online Only)
Jennifer is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 19 years of professional work experience working with adolescents and young adults dealing with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence & depression. She believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion and meeting them where they are. She works to tailor dialog and treatment plans to meet your unique and specific needs.
Jennifer is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 19 years of professional work experience working with adolescents and young adults dealing with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence & depression. She believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion and meeting them where they are. She works to tailor dialog and treatment plans to meet your unique and specific needs.
(636) 267-1494 View (636) 267-1494
Photo of Christine Nolle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Nolle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Farmington, MO 63640  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Christine and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the States of Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, North Dakota, Maine, Indiana and Florida. I have over 20 years of experience in mental health . I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, individual and group therapy, and working in the insurance industry. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, OCD, and substance abuse. My counseling style is warm and non-judgmental.
Hello! My name is Christine and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the States of Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, North Dakota, Maine, Indiana and Florida. I have over 20 years of experience in mental health . I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, individual and group therapy, and working in the insurance industry. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, OCD, and substance abuse. My counseling style is warm and non-judgmental.
(816) 451-1576 View (816) 451-1576
Photo of Melissa Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Farmington, MO 63640  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am committed to providing compassionate and thoughtful support to individuals seeking to navigate life's challenges. I strive to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My journey as a therapist has been shaped by years of education, training, and practical experience. Through this I have developed an understanding of various therapeutic techniques and theories, allowing me to tailor my approach to each individual's unique needs.
As a therapist, I am committed to providing compassionate and thoughtful support to individuals seeking to navigate life's challenges. I strive to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My journey as a therapist has been shaped by years of education, training, and practical experience. Through this I have developed an understanding of various therapeutic techniques and theories, allowing me to tailor my approach to each individual's unique needs.
(573) 488-6487 View (573) 488-6487

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Dexter, MO

< 10

Therapists in Dexter, MO who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% TRICARE
100% Anthem

How Therapists in Dexter, MO see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Dexter?

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.