Therapists in Johnson City, TN

Photo of Katherine Barteck, PsyD, Psychologist
Katherine Barteck
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
I provide individual therapy, to adolescents and adults, as well as couples and family therapy. I believe that the focus of therapy is the achievement of insight and both intra- and inter-personal growth. This means different things to different people and families, so I actively involve you in the direction of your therapy and will check in often to make sure that your needs are being met. I trained as a generalist and pull from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including interpersonal process, insight-oriented, and cognitive-behavioral.
I provide individual therapy, to adolescents and adults, as well as couples and family therapy. I believe that the focus of therapy is the achievement of insight and both intra- and inter-personal growth. This means different things to different people and families, so I actively involve you in the direction of your therapy and will check in often to make sure that your needs are being met. I trained as a generalist and pull from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including interpersonal process, insight-oriented, and cognitive-behavioral.
(423) 930-9338 View (423) 930-9338
Photo of Christine Steadman, MS, LPC-T, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christine Steadman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-T, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
Not accepting new clients
I'm committed to empowering adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns, and trauma. Understanding the importance of the therapeutic relationship, I seek to understand clients' needs, concerns, goals, and history. As a certified yoga instructor, I incorporate techniques and exercises that address issues of the mind as well as trauma the body can hold. While sessions are tailored to the needs of each client, treatment focuses on addressing the individual holistically. I use various therapeutic styles that include Gestalt, cognitive behavioral, existential, and somatic.
I'm committed to empowering adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns, and trauma. Understanding the importance of the therapeutic relationship, I seek to understand clients' needs, concerns, goals, and history. As a certified yoga instructor, I incorporate techniques and exercises that address issues of the mind as well as trauma the body can hold. While sessions are tailored to the needs of each client, treatment focuses on addressing the individual holistically. I use various therapeutic styles that include Gestalt, cognitive behavioral, existential, and somatic.
(423) 205-7260 View (423) 205-7260
Photo of Kelsey Maloney-Steiner, MSc, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Maloney-Steiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Kelsey works with individuals, adolescents, and adults. She believes that we live in stories. It is through relationships, conversations, and stories that we create meaning in life. By examining the stories we tell ourselves, re-authoring them, and externalizing problems, then we can construct new and liberating stories. In counseling, Kelsey uses narrative therapy to engage with clients in the stories of their lives. She focuses on building an atmosphere of curiosity, respect, and transparency. She believes individuals matter, bearing witness to stories matters, and that individuals have strengths and the power to change.
Kelsey works with individuals, adolescents, and adults. She believes that we live in stories. It is through relationships, conversations, and stories that we create meaning in life. By examining the stories we tell ourselves, re-authoring them, and externalizing problems, then we can construct new and liberating stories. In counseling, Kelsey uses narrative therapy to engage with clients in the stories of their lives. She focuses on building an atmosphere of curiosity, respect, and transparency. She believes individuals matter, bearing witness to stories matters, and that individuals have strengths and the power to change.
(423) 345-8572 View (423) 345-8572
Photo of Laura Martorano - Sunny Path Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sunny Path Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Sunny Path Counseling, PLLC is a child and adolescent counseling center located in Johnson City, TN. Sunny Path Counseling consists of licensed professional counselors and intern (supervised, pre-licensed) counselors. *We are coming soon to Bristol, TN. If you are interested in being added to our waiting list for services in Bristol, give us a call and let us know!
Sunny Path Counseling, PLLC is a child and adolescent counseling center located in Johnson City, TN. Sunny Path Counseling consists of licensed professional counselors and intern (supervised, pre-licensed) counselors. *We are coming soon to Bristol, TN. If you are interested in being added to our waiting list for services in Bristol, give us a call and let us know!
(423) 205-6346 View (423) 205-6346
Photo of Vanessa Civil, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Vanessa Civil
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601  (Online Only)
Welcome! I specialize in supporting young adults, and couples through life's transitions, self-discovery, and relationships. My passion lies in empowering individuals to develop independence and nurture a confident identity. For couples, I guide the process of blending two unique identities into a harmonious partnership. I find profound joy in witnessing my clients as they courageously confront challenging emotions, navigate complex behaviors, and nurture healthier relationships. Together, we'll unravel the past, envision the future, and I'll stand by your side, offering empathy and unwavering support every step of the way.
Welcome! I specialize in supporting young adults, and couples through life's transitions, self-discovery, and relationships. My passion lies in empowering individuals to develop independence and nurture a confident identity. For couples, I guide the process of blending two unique identities into a harmonious partnership. I find profound joy in witnessing my clients as they courageously confront challenging emotions, navigate complex behaviors, and nurture healthier relationships. Together, we'll unravel the past, envision the future, and I'll stand by your side, offering empathy and unwavering support every step of the way.
(423) 516-8194 View (423) 516-8194
Photo of Allison Alford, MA, NCC, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Alford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Waitlist for new clients
Allison Alford is an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor and Mental Health Service Provider engaging individuals and families to help them deal with life’s transitions and struggles. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she utilizes a compassionate, person-centered approach to helping her clients process and understand their own thoughts and emotions. Allison helps address issues such as relationship struggles, stress and anxiety, religious issues and trauma, and life transitions. Allison’s therapeutic approach is rooted in a belief that individuals can move towards their goals of healing
Allison Alford is an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor and Mental Health Service Provider engaging individuals and families to help them deal with life’s transitions and struggles. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she utilizes a compassionate, person-centered approach to helping her clients process and understand their own thoughts and emotions. Allison helps address issues such as relationship struggles, stress and anxiety, religious issues and trauma, and life transitions. Allison’s therapeutic approach is rooted in a belief that individuals can move towards their goals of healing
(423) 799-3246 View (423) 799-3246
Photo of Alexis Doss, M Ed, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexis Doss
Pre-Licensed Professional, M Ed, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
Not accepting new clients
Are you ready to take the first step in your healing journey? I believe that true healing comes from within, sometimes we just need help asking the right questions to learn about ourselves. Every part of you deserves to be explored and I hope to aid in exploring those questions to deepen understanding of self and your own specific worldview.
Are you ready to take the first step in your healing journey? I believe that true healing comes from within, sometimes we just need help asking the right questions to learn about ourselves. Every part of you deserves to be explored and I hope to aid in exploring those questions to deepen understanding of self and your own specific worldview.
(423) 397-2972 View (423) 397-2972
Photo of Pam Kuykendall, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Pam Kuykendall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Thank you for taking time to view my profile. Being a mental health care provider is a calling and a passion. Healing from the effects of trauma, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns, anxiety, and depression is possible. The healing journey is different for each person and I will patiently walk alongside my clients each step of the way. I also provide premarital counseling, family therapy, and have experience with parenting assistance and spiritual health.
Thank you for taking time to view my profile. Being a mental health care provider is a calling and a passion. Healing from the effects of trauma, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns, anxiety, and depression is possible. The healing journey is different for each person and I will patiently walk alongside my clients each step of the way. I also provide premarital counseling, family therapy, and have experience with parenting assistance and spiritual health.
(423) 436-0401 View (423) 436-0401
Photo of David Sapp, LPC, MHSP, LSPE, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Sapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LSPE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
David Sapp is Licensed in the State of Tennessee as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Senior Psychological Examiner (LSPE). David relocated to Tennessee after growing up in New York. He received his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Milligan University and his Masters of Education in Counseling from East Tennessee State University. He has worked for 35 years as a Professional Counselor in East Tennessee in a variety of settings including outpatient counseling as well as schools, nursing homes, hospitals, and jails. In addition, David has been an adjunct instructor at Milligan University.
David Sapp is Licensed in the State of Tennessee as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Senior Psychological Examiner (LSPE). David relocated to Tennessee after growing up in New York. He received his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Milligan University and his Masters of Education in Counseling from East Tennessee State University. He has worked for 35 years as a Professional Counselor in East Tennessee in a variety of settings including outpatient counseling as well as schools, nursing homes, hospitals, and jails. In addition, David has been an adjunct instructor at Milligan University.
(423) 556-3788 View (423) 556-3788
Photo of Amanda K Chapman, LPC, MHSP, MBE, ANFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda K Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MBE, ANFT
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
If you find yourself asking questions such as, "What am I doing with my life?" or "What's stopping me from being content right now?", then I'm here to support and guide you to take ownership of your life in a way that creates profound joy and peace. If you're wondering what's underneath your sorrow, depression, or fears, you may be ready for a deeper journey of self-discovery. Life adjustments are inevitable. As an experienced Professional Counselor, I can help you find purpose, reduce stress, break free from internal blocks, maintain a healthy mindset, deepen awareness and self-compassion and reconnect to your true essence.
If you find yourself asking questions such as, "What am I doing with my life?" or "What's stopping me from being content right now?", then I'm here to support and guide you to take ownership of your life in a way that creates profound joy and peace. If you're wondering what's underneath your sorrow, depression, or fears, you may be ready for a deeper journey of self-discovery. Life adjustments are inevitable. As an experienced Professional Counselor, I can help you find purpose, reduce stress, break free from internal blocks, maintain a healthy mindset, deepen awareness and self-compassion and reconnect to your true essence.
(423) 250-2218 View (423) 250-2218
Photo of Alyssa Scott, PsyD, Psychologist
Alyssa Scott
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Alyssa Scott is a Psychologist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her undergraduate degree in psychology at the University of North Carolina at Asheville and her doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Pacific University in Oregon. Alyssa's therapeutic style is an eclectic mix of evidence-based treatment modalities to help clients and families achieve their goals. She wanted to get her doctorate so that she could have the highest skill set possible to bring to her clients. As a clinician, Alyssa is warm, positive, enthusiastic, collaborative, and solution focused.
Alyssa Scott is a Psychologist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2022. She obtained her undergraduate degree in psychology at the University of North Carolina at Asheville and her doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Pacific University in Oregon. Alyssa's therapeutic style is an eclectic mix of evidence-based treatment modalities to help clients and families achieve their goals. She wanted to get her doctorate so that she could have the highest skill set possible to bring to her clients. As a clinician, Alyssa is warm, positive, enthusiastic, collaborative, and solution focused.
(423) 592-5311 View (423) 592-5311
Photo of Linda Coeburn - Inspired Hope Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inspired Hope Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Are you experiencing memories of traumatic events that are impacting your life in a negative manner? Does it feel like the pain and self blame you are feeling will never go away? Are you struggling with feelings of hopelessness, grieving over the loss of a loved one, or experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
Are you experiencing memories of traumatic events that are impacting your life in a negative manner? Does it feel like the pain and self blame you are feeling will never go away? Are you struggling with feelings of hopelessness, grieving over the loss of a loved one, or experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
(423) 482-8933 View (423) 482-8933
Photo of Brynn Burger, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brynn Burger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Struggling with marriage or partnership conflict, sexual trauma/abuse/addiction, or exploring individuality and healing somatic response to trauma? I pair my experience with over 20 years serving in various forms of mental health as a clinician trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, Integrative Sex Therapy to support sexual addiction recovery, counseling couples, families, and individuals working toward healing from infidelity, struggling with communication, or navigating non-traditional relationships.
Struggling with marriage or partnership conflict, sexual trauma/abuse/addiction, or exploring individuality and healing somatic response to trauma? I pair my experience with over 20 years serving in various forms of mental health as a clinician trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, Integrative Sex Therapy to support sexual addiction recovery, counseling couples, families, and individuals working toward healing from infidelity, struggling with communication, or navigating non-traditional relationships.
(423) 497-3781 View (423) 497-3781
Photo of Brad Davis - North Star Counseling LLC, LPC, MHSP, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
North Star Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37615
Not accepting new clients
I provide therapy to people from all walks of life and tailor counseling to each individual. I meet people right where they are to help them take steps towards the life they want. I believe that people who struggle with their thoughts and feelings are often just looking for a way to be the person they want to be and sometimes get lost along the way. They want to hold true to their personal values when making choices but have trouble finding a way forward. I believe that, through therapy, people can learn new and creative ways to respond to those thoughts and feelings so they can get back to living a life guided by their values.
I provide therapy to people from all walks of life and tailor counseling to each individual. I meet people right where they are to help them take steps towards the life they want. I believe that people who struggle with their thoughts and feelings are often just looking for a way to be the person they want to be and sometimes get lost along the way. They want to hold true to their personal values when making choices but have trouble finding a way forward. I believe that, through therapy, people can learn new and creative ways to respond to those thoughts and feelings so they can get back to living a life guided by their values.
(423) 556-3833 View (423) 556-3833
Sierra Frosley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Hi! I'm Sierra, a child therapist at Sunny Path Counseling in Johnson City, TN. All people have a story to share. It is my absolute honor to hold space for the stories of the unique individuals who come to me for therapy. Providing a safe place for all my clients to feel validated, understood, and supported is something I strive for as a clinician. I am passionate about helping children and young adults in their healing process and meeting them where they are in their story. I seek to empower individuals to become their most authentic self.
Hi! I'm Sierra, a child therapist at Sunny Path Counseling in Johnson City, TN. All people have a story to share. It is my absolute honor to hold space for the stories of the unique individuals who come to me for therapy. Providing a safe place for all my clients to feel validated, understood, and supported is something I strive for as a clinician. I am passionate about helping children and young adults in their healing process and meeting them where they are in their story. I seek to empower individuals to become their most authentic self.
(423) 418-5721 View (423) 418-5721
Photo of Lee Sinnott, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lee Sinnott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604
Lee Sinnott is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience, working with a wide variety of people. He is passionate about helping his clients in those around him to find their personal power and developing skills to live a life of their own, making in line with their goals and dreams.
Lee Sinnott is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience, working with a wide variety of people. He is passionate about helping his clients in those around him to find their personal power and developing skills to live a life of their own, making in line with their goals and dreams.
(423) 561-9574 View (423) 561-9574
Photo of Amy McLaughlin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Waitlist for new clients
Is the past influencing your present life? I have discovered that so many of us have a hard time living in the present because of things from our past... or we struggle because we don't believe we are "good enough." I have been practicing for 13 years. I am trained in EMDR and believe everyone can grow, heal, and live fulfilling lives. My greatest joy is seeing my clients redefine who they are according to their values...Being able to be authentic. No longer confined to the pressures, ideals and expectations of others or shackled to the past.
Is the past influencing your present life? I have discovered that so many of us have a hard time living in the present because of things from our past... or we struggle because we don't believe we are "good enough." I have been practicing for 13 years. I am trained in EMDR and believe everyone can grow, heal, and live fulfilling lives. My greatest joy is seeing my clients redefine who they are according to their values...Being able to be authentic. No longer confined to the pressures, ideals and expectations of others or shackled to the past.
(423) 456-9008 View (423) 456-9008
Photo of Emily R Miller, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily R Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37615
Not accepting new clients
Are you tired of anxiety and depression overrunning your life? Do you want to experience freedom from your traumatic experiences? Are you hoping to break unhealthy patterns and improve your relationships? If so, I would love to work with you! I am Emily, a Licensed Master of Social Work who is passionate about partnering with teens and young adults as they work through experiences of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral concerns, addiction, relationship conflicts and more! What ever struggles you may be facing, I would love to partner with you to navigate it all.
Are you tired of anxiety and depression overrunning your life? Do you want to experience freedom from your traumatic experiences? Are you hoping to break unhealthy patterns and improve your relationships? If so, I would love to work with you! I am Emily, a Licensed Master of Social Work who is passionate about partnering with teens and young adults as they work through experiences of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral concerns, addiction, relationship conflicts and more! What ever struggles you may be facing, I would love to partner with you to navigate it all.
(423) 592-8196 View (423) 592-8196
Photo of Lee Sinnott - Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy Johnson City, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy Johnson City
Counselor
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Valentina Cartes Nuñez, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Valentina Cartes Nuñez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
I am a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish) offering services in both languages. I am passionate about working with teens and adults as they process life changes that can bring anxiety and depression and work through different types of trauma. I also have experience offering recovery support for those struggling with addictions.
I am a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish) offering services in both languages. I am passionate about working with teens and adults as they process life changes that can bring anxiety and depression and work through different types of trauma. I also have experience offering recovery support for those struggling with addictions.
(423) 482-9122 View (423) 482-9122

See more therapy options for Johnson City

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Johnson City, TN

100+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in Johnson City, TN who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Johnson City, TN see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Johnson City?

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.