Therapists in Lumberton, NC

Photo of Megan Hammonds, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Megan Hammonds
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28360  (Online Only)
I have been working as a counselor since 2017 and have experience in multiple settings including higher education, private practice, and community nonprofit. My heart for survivors of interpersonal violence, including sexual assault, is what led me to counseling. However, I serve clients with many struggles and concerns. I do not want anyone's past experiences or negative core beliefs to hold them back from living a meaningful life.
I have been working as a counselor since 2017 and have experience in multiple settings including higher education, private practice, and community nonprofit. My heart for survivors of interpersonal violence, including sexual assault, is what led me to counseling. However, I serve clients with many struggles and concerns. I do not want anyone's past experiences or negative core beliefs to hold them back from living a meaningful life.
(910) 807-7803 View (910) 807-7803
Photo of Dontay McArn - DSM Theraputic Services, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
DSM Theraputic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28360  (Online Only)
Life is full of challenges that may impact our mental health for a moment or a lifetime. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting to life’s challenges, or relationship issues, I am here for you. Allow me to be a part of your journey to live a happier and healthier life. I believe you are the driver in therapy, as you know you best and I am here to provide hope and help you when you feel lost or off track. My job is to work myself out of a job. If you allow me the honor of being a part of your journey I promise to work as hard as you do.
Life is full of challenges that may impact our mental health for a moment or a lifetime. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting to life’s challenges, or relationship issues, I am here for you. Allow me to be a part of your journey to live a happier and healthier life. I believe you are the driver in therapy, as you know you best and I am here to provide hope and help you when you feel lost or off track. My job is to work myself out of a job. If you allow me the honor of being a part of your journey I promise to work as hard as you do.
(910) 519-8257 View (910) 519-8257
Photo of Courtney B. White, MA, LCMHCS, LMHC, CCMHC, NCC
Courtney B. White
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, LMHC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358  (Online Only)
My name is Courtney (she/her) and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Supervisor (LCMHCS) in North Carolina. At this time, I am accepting clients from anywhere in NC for telehealth counseling. It is very important to me that my clients have a voice and choice in the counseling process. I want you to be an active participant in treatment planning and goal setting to determine exactly what you need to heal and move forward. If you want to work with me as a client, you're the one driving this car and I'm just a passenger - because this is your journey.
My name is Courtney (she/her) and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Supervisor (LCMHCS) in North Carolina. At this time, I am accepting clients from anywhere in NC for telehealth counseling. It is very important to me that my clients have a voice and choice in the counseling process. I want you to be an active participant in treatment planning and goal setting to determine exactly what you need to heal and move forward. If you want to work with me as a client, you're the one driving this car and I'm just a passenger - because this is your journey.
(910) 463-9533 View (910) 463-9533
Photo of Marissa Cox, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Cox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
Are you experiencing stress from everyday life? Do you struggle with juggling the demands of life? Do have difficulty navigating stress, anxiety, and/or depression? Do your thoughts prevent you from being the best you, you can be? Have you tried everything you know to try and nothing seems to be changing? Maybe you are dealing with grief, relationship difficulties, or divorce? Are you finding it difficult to navigate parenting? Maybe you have even tried therapy before? Whether you answered yes to all of these questions, a few of these questions, or maybe even one of these questions, there is hope and ways that can help you navigate.
Are you experiencing stress from everyday life? Do you struggle with juggling the demands of life? Do have difficulty navigating stress, anxiety, and/or depression? Do your thoughts prevent you from being the best you, you can be? Have you tried everything you know to try and nothing seems to be changing? Maybe you are dealing with grief, relationship difficulties, or divorce? Are you finding it difficult to navigate parenting? Maybe you have even tried therapy before? Whether you answered yes to all of these questions, a few of these questions, or maybe even one of these questions, there is hope and ways that can help you navigate.
(910) 606-4397 View (910) 606-4397
Photo of Jessica Elliot Stevens, LCMHC
Jessica Elliot Stevens
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358
Hi! My name Is Jessica Stevens, but you can call me Niki. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. My approach to therapy is Rogerian, (Person-Centered) along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have 6 years of experience with children and adults in areas of depression, anxiety, anger management and children who also have struggles with emotional regulation and attention deficits. I have 6 years of experience with children and adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and anger management. I have 20 years total experience with children who struggle with emotional regulation and attention deficits.
Hi! My name Is Jessica Stevens, but you can call me Niki. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. My approach to therapy is Rogerian, (Person-Centered) along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have 6 years of experience with children and adults in areas of depression, anxiety, anger management and children who also have struggles with emotional regulation and attention deficits. I have 6 years of experience with children and adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and anger management. I have 20 years total experience with children who struggle with emotional regulation and attention deficits.
(980) 998-1824 View (980) 998-1824
Photo of Arlanda Pridgen, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Arlanda Pridgen
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358
People come to counseling because they want something to be different in their lives. They want to change their personal or family situation, solve a particular problem, or simply bring a healthier balance to their lives.
People come to counseling because they want something to be different in their lives. They want to change their personal or family situation, solve a particular problem, or simply bring a healthier balance to their lives.
(910) 226-1555 View (910) 226-1555
Photo of Sonya McGirt - The Therapy Room, PLLC, MA, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Therapy Room, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358  (Online Only)
I cannot think of a time that I did not want to help people. I have also been easily approachable and have always assisted with friends and family challenges. During my 13 plus years in mental health I have studied and trained to be the best I can be at my profession. When I help others be empowered and learn techniques to fight the hard trials of life, it brightens my spirit and reminds me each and every time why I do what I do. So, let me assist you in living your best life!
I cannot think of a time that I did not want to help people. I have also been easily approachable and have always assisted with friends and family challenges. During my 13 plus years in mental health I have studied and trained to be the best I can be at my profession. When I help others be empowered and learn techniques to fight the hard trials of life, it brightens my spirit and reminds me each and every time why I do what I do. So, let me assist you in living your best life!
(910) 776-1761 View (910) 776-1761
Karen D Nance
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358  (Online Only)
My theoretical orientation involves an integrated approach which will best suit the needs and capabilities of the client. Although I have been involved in providing mental health related services since 1996, I have been counseling as a profession since 2008. My clinical practice involves the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, which explores how the client thinks about themselves and their actions and whether or not a shift in thinking/cognition would be followed by a shift in behavior. This theory involves the use of a behavior assessment and includes modification techniques such as cognitive restructuring, positive reinforcement,
My theoretical orientation involves an integrated approach which will best suit the needs and capabilities of the client. Although I have been involved in providing mental health related services since 1996, I have been counseling as a profession since 2008. My clinical practice involves the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, which explores how the client thinks about themselves and their actions and whether or not a shift in thinking/cognition would be followed by a shift in behavior. This theory involves the use of a behavior assessment and includes modification techniques such as cognitive restructuring, positive reinforcement,
(910) 387-1994 View (910) 387-1994
Photo of Erica Ann Striblin, MA, LCMHC , NBCC, LCMHCS, Counselor
Erica Ann Striblin
Counselor, MA, LCMHC , NBCC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
I am Erica Striblin, MA, LCMHCS currently located in Lumberton NC. I am a trauma focused and EMDR trained clinician. I currently assist ,adults, children and their families with history of sexual,physical and child neglect. I serve ages 3 through 100 in areas of depression, anxiety, grief, etc. in a professional and therapeutic setting.
I am Erica Striblin, MA, LCMHCS currently located in Lumberton NC. I am a trauma focused and EMDR trained clinician. I currently assist ,adults, children and their families with history of sexual,physical and child neglect. I serve ages 3 through 100 in areas of depression, anxiety, grief, etc. in a professional and therapeutic setting.
(910) 816-1878 View (910) 816-1878
Photo of Donna Kaye Hardee, LCMHC, Counselor
Donna Kaye Hardee
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a safe space for people to heal and grow. I am a conversational therapist. I want you to feel welcomed and comfortable. When those two things are accomplished, I feel people will lower walls and start sharing. That is when the work begins. We will work as a team to help decide what YOUR best self looks like and how to get there. I also know everyone's personal best is different; that is ok.
I provide a safe space for people to heal and grow. I am a conversational therapist. I want you to feel welcomed and comfortable. When those two things are accomplished, I feel people will lower walls and start sharing. That is when the work begins. We will work as a team to help decide what YOUR best self looks like and how to get there. I also know everyone's personal best is different; that is ok.
(910) 606-4261 View (910) 606-4261
Photo of Denotra J. Winston, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I, NCC
Denotra J. Winston
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358  (Online Only)
We are accepting new clients! We have over 15 years of experience working with families and individuals who have anxiety, depression, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum, addictions and substance use concerns. We like to adapt sessions to assist clients in identifying stressors, identify motivations, build support systems, and increase functioning. My goal is to establish a therapeutic relationship with each individual while striving to create a safe, non -judgmental space to foster the healing.
We are accepting new clients! We have over 15 years of experience working with families and individuals who have anxiety, depression, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum, addictions and substance use concerns. We like to adapt sessions to assist clients in identifying stressors, identify motivations, build support systems, and increase functioning. My goal is to establish a therapeutic relationship with each individual while striving to create a safe, non -judgmental space to foster the healing.
(336) 804-8632 View (336) 804-8632
Photo of Christopher J Ketchman - Haymount Institute for Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Haymount Institute for Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358
The power to make positive changes is within us all. The goal of holistic wellness is to "change the lens" and give a healthier perspective for a peaceful and more content life. Our intention is to provide a confidential, professional and supportive environment in which individuals and families can identify problem areas, explore what prevents the problem from being solved, and help you develop and learn skills that can enhance your quality of life.
The power to make positive changes is within us all. The goal of holistic wellness is to "change the lens" and give a healthier perspective for a peaceful and more content life. Our intention is to provide a confidential, professional and supportive environment in which individuals and families can identify problem areas, explore what prevents the problem from being solved, and help you develop and learn skills that can enhance your quality of life.
(910) 719-3087 View (910) 719-3087
Photo of Denise Bostick-Fairley - Symmetry Health Services, PLLC, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, RPT, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Symmetry Health Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, RPT, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
Hello! Welcome to Symmetry Health Services, PLLC (SHS). During the therapeutic process at SHS, our goal is to provide our clients with guidance, insight, and tools that will result in self-empowerment and wellness. We are equipped and ready to make a special effort to advance each person to uncover the best solution for his or her problem. Our approach to therapy is to help individuals, families, and couples make sense of what has happened in their life, recognize how it continues to affect them, and make changes that allow them to move forward to accomplish their goals.
Hello! Welcome to Symmetry Health Services, PLLC (SHS). During the therapeutic process at SHS, our goal is to provide our clients with guidance, insight, and tools that will result in self-empowerment and wellness. We are equipped and ready to make a special effort to advance each person to uncover the best solution for his or her problem. Our approach to therapy is to help individuals, families, and couples make sense of what has happened in their life, recognize how it continues to affect them, and make changes that allow them to move forward to accomplish their goals.
(910) 501-2436 View (910) 501-2436
Photo of Laura Gose, MA, LCMHC
Laura Gose
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358
The first step into counseling can be difficult one, but I will provide you with a caring and safe environment which will make a positive difference in your life. My goal is to enhance your life and give you the skills to deal with today's challenges. I strive to be a place of help, hope, and healing for families and individuals experiencing emotional, relational, spiritual, and marital distress by providing promote healthy relationships and improve the overall well being of our clients through high-quality mental health services which focus on the needs of families and individuals.
The first step into counseling can be difficult one, but I will provide you with a caring and safe environment which will make a positive difference in your life. My goal is to enhance your life and give you the skills to deal with today's challenges. I strive to be a place of help, hope, and healing for families and individuals experiencing emotional, relational, spiritual, and marital distress by providing promote healthy relationships and improve the overall well being of our clients through high-quality mental health services which focus on the needs of families and individuals.
(910) 416-5925 View (910) 416-5925
Photo of Wiley Hughes - Southeast Counseling Services, LLC, DMin, PsyD, LCMHC, FBPPC, NCC
Southeast Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, DMin, PsyD, LCMHC, FBPPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
We offer a wide variety of counseling services and a staff of fully and provisionally licensed counselors. If you are not sure what kind of counseling you want or need, start with us! We will help you through the process and help make it as easy as possible for you to get back to feeling like "you" again. In addition to a variety of therapeutic approaches to psychotherapy we also integrate measurement-based care into the treatment of our clients. Using approved and tried-and-true assessments we offer a full-approach to whole-person counseling. Give us a call today for available session times guaranteed within the week. Open Saturday
We offer a wide variety of counseling services and a staff of fully and provisionally licensed counselors. If you are not sure what kind of counseling you want or need, start with us! We will help you through the process and help make it as easy as possible for you to get back to feeling like "you" again. In addition to a variety of therapeutic approaches to psychotherapy we also integrate measurement-based care into the treatment of our clients. Using approved and tried-and-true assessments we offer a full-approach to whole-person counseling. Give us a call today for available session times guaranteed within the week. Open Saturday
(910) 506-3005 View (910) 506-3005
Photo of Bobette (Bobbie) Smith - All-American Counseling, Wellness and Consulting, LCSW, MSW, BSW, C-SWHC, C-ASWCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
All-American Counseling, Wellness and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW, C-SWHC, C-ASWCM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
Clinicians have ties and connections to the military, veterans, LEOs, first responders and surrounding areas for: Cumberland, Moore, Harnett, Robinson, New Hanover, Forsyth and Lee, NC counties. Our contracted clinicians provide a wide range of services and specialties. We appreciate the opportunity to be of help and look forward to all of us working together. Bobette Smith, LCSW, owner, is military connected and a Fayettevillian. Experience with: Service Members and families, first responders, children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, families, small groups, intensive outpatient groups and clinical inpatient hospital care.
Clinicians have ties and connections to the military, veterans, LEOs, first responders and surrounding areas for: Cumberland, Moore, Harnett, Robinson, New Hanover, Forsyth and Lee, NC counties. Our contracted clinicians provide a wide range of services and specialties. We appreciate the opportunity to be of help and look forward to all of us working together. Bobette Smith, LCSW, owner, is military connected and a Fayettevillian. Experience with: Service Members and families, first responders, children, adolescents, adults, geriatrics, families, small groups, intensive outpatient groups and clinical inpatient hospital care.
(833) 846-3463 View (833) 846-3463
Photo of Yolanda Alford-Floyd - Purpose Counseling Services,PLLC , MA, LCMHCS, TF-CBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Purpose Counseling Services,PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
Life can be challenging leaving you unsure of what is your next step. Purpose Counseling Services, PLLC is here to help you. Yolanda Alford,MA, LCMHCS has an extensive background of working with children, families, couples and military. Accepting clients in North Carolina and South Carolina.
Life can be challenging leaving you unsure of what is your next step. Purpose Counseling Services, PLLC is here to help you. Yolanda Alford,MA, LCMHCS has an extensive background of working with children, families, couples and military. Accepting clients in North Carolina and South Carolina.
(910) 501-2495 View (910) 501-2495
Photo of Jessica Williford, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Williford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28359  (Online Only)
Have you been avoiding others because nobody can understand what life is like for you? Do you notice there are parts of yourself you neglect? Life can be messy and sometimes we may need somebody to meet us exactly where we are. It can be difficult to take that initial step, but it can also be freeing and empowering. I am passionate about helping you create lasting changes you would like to see. I strive to provide a safe environment where you identify your personal goals, where connection is key, and your experiences are validated. You are worthy!
Have you been avoiding others because nobody can understand what life is like for you? Do you notice there are parts of yourself you neglect? Life can be messy and sometimes we may need somebody to meet us exactly where we are. It can be difficult to take that initial step, but it can also be freeing and empowering. I am passionate about helping you create lasting changes you would like to see. I strive to provide a safe environment where you identify your personal goals, where connection is key, and your experiences are validated. You are worthy!
(252) 713-5198 View (252) 713-5198
Photo of Erica Alford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Alford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from UNC-Charlotte with a master’s degree in social work. I have had the privilege to experience working with a diverse group of people in my career; including those having difficulty with life changes, health decline, life transition, depression, anxiety, bi-polar, addiction, and psychotic disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from UNC-Charlotte with a master’s degree in social work. I have had the privilege to experience working with a diverse group of people in my career; including those having difficulty with life changes, health decline, life transition, depression, anxiety, bi-polar, addiction, and psychotic disorders.
(978) 315-6771 View (978) 315-6771
Photo of Uyen Dinh, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Uyen Dinh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
My therapeutic approach encourages personal growth and provides opportunities for clients to learn information and skills to help them find a more balanced, meaningful life. I believe that the clients are the true experts in their lives, so I work with my client to establish a treatment plan that is specific to their identified needs and goals. I believe there is no “one size fits all” form of therapy. I pull from a variety of modalities so that I can tailor treatment to your specific needs. As a first-generation Asian American, I understand and have experienced mental health stigma.
My therapeutic approach encourages personal growth and provides opportunities for clients to learn information and skills to help them find a more balanced, meaningful life. I believe that the clients are the true experts in their lives, so I work with my client to establish a treatment plan that is specific to their identified needs and goals. I believe there is no “one size fits all” form of therapy. I pull from a variety of modalities so that I can tailor treatment to your specific needs. As a first-generation Asian American, I understand and have experienced mental health stigma.
(704) 538-4213 View (704) 538-4213
1

See more therapy options for Lumberton

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lumberton, NC

30+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Lumberton, NC who prioritize treating:

82% Anxiety
76% Depression
76% Coping Skills
74% Self Esteem
68% Stress
62% Relationship Issues
62% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Aetna
68% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Lumberton, NC see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

97% Female
3% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lumberton?

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.