Therapists in Wayne County, NC

View cities in Wayne County
Photo of Jamila Ayoubi, MA, LCMHC, LCASA
Jamila Ayoubi
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goldsboro, NC 27534
I enjoy working with adults and teens 15 years and older. My previous experience involves working with several populations in the community, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and clients with substance use diagnoses (including those with co-occurring mental health diagnoses). As a therapist, my ultimate goal is to create a safe space where everyone I see feels heard, seen, and accepted in order to facilitate real change through a collaborative approach.
I enjoy working with adults and teens 15 years and older. My previous experience involves working with several populations in the community, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and clients with substance use diagnoses (including those with co-occurring mental health diagnoses). As a therapist, my ultimate goal is to create a safe space where everyone I see feels heard, seen, and accepted in order to facilitate real change through a collaborative approach.
(984) 400-9266 View (984) 400-9266
Photo of Tiffany Farmer, LCMHC, LCAS
Tiffany Farmer
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
Life is Hard! Hello, my name is Tiffany. I am dual licensed as a LCMHC (licensed clinical mental health counselor) as well as a LCAS (licensed clinical addiction specialist) in the state of NC. I have been working in the mental health field for 8 years working with kids, adults & families. I enjoy working and helping people, I personally believe we all need a non judgmental person in our lives to vent, bounce ideas off of, and just work through the stressors of life with. I primarily use the CBT model but also solution focused therapy in my practice. I believe You are never too far gone, and everyone has the right to enjoy life.
Life is Hard! Hello, my name is Tiffany. I am dual licensed as a LCMHC (licensed clinical mental health counselor) as well as a LCAS (licensed clinical addiction specialist) in the state of NC. I have been working in the mental health field for 8 years working with kids, adults & families. I enjoy working and helping people, I personally believe we all need a non judgmental person in our lives to vent, bounce ideas off of, and just work through the stressors of life with. I primarily use the CBT model but also solution focused therapy in my practice. I believe You are never too far gone, and everyone has the right to enjoy life.
(919) 899-7720 View (919) 899-7720
Photo of Candra Nikita Edwards - Healing Well Counseling Services, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Well Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
Candra Edwards is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 12 years of mental health experience. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families identify, confront, and resolve unique challenges in order to live more fulfilling lives. Candra also works with women as they manage emotional challenges relative to pregnancy. She specializes in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, peri/postpartum health, and grief and loss.
Candra Edwards is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 12 years of mental health experience. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families identify, confront, and resolve unique challenges in order to live more fulfilling lives. Candra also works with women as they manage emotional challenges relative to pregnancy. She specializes in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, peri/postpartum health, and grief and loss.
(919) 629-9156 View (919) 629-9156
Photo of Nicole Bauer, MA, MFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Bauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
Not accepting new clients
My passion in life has always been to help and encourage others. Regardless of where you're at or what you're dealing with, there is always a way to overcome the obstacles life puts in your way. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, marital distress or any other life impacting situation, I can help. I am extensively trained in marriage and family therapy and I specialize in working with adolescents, teens and adults dealing with ADHD, anxiety and depression.
My passion in life has always been to help and encourage others. Regardless of where you're at or what you're dealing with, there is always a way to overcome the obstacles life puts in your way. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, marital distress or any other life impacting situation, I can help. I am extensively trained in marriage and family therapy and I specialize in working with adolescents, teens and adults dealing with ADHD, anxiety and depression.
(919) 634-6095 View (919) 634-6095
Photo of Tracie L Hillard, LCMHCS
Tracie L Hillard
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goldsboro, NC 27534
I have been working as a counselor since January 2001. I typically work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I feel that parents are important in the counseling process and would like for parents to be available during the times that I meet with the child. I accept most major insurances. If you are choosing to pay for counseling services yourself, please call me so we can discuss the fee. At the first session, we will discuss background information and discuss what our goals will be.
I have been working as a counselor since January 2001. I typically work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I feel that parents are important in the counseling process and would like for parents to be available during the times that I meet with the child. I accept most major insurances. If you are choosing to pay for counseling services yourself, please call me so we can discuss the fee. At the first session, we will discuss background information and discuss what our goals will be.
(919) 907-2061 View (919) 907-2061
Photo of Melissa D McClung, LPC, LCAS-A, NBCT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa D McClung
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAS-A, NBCT
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
I have worked in various positions in the counseling arena for nearly 30 years. I enjoy working with adults to assist them in achieving their full potential. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety and depression. I help clients deal with life on life's terms. I tailor my practice to each client's individual needs. I believe that each person has within him or her the ability to be emotionally well.
I have worked in various positions in the counseling arena for nearly 30 years. I enjoy working with adults to assist them in achieving their full potential. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety and depression. I help clients deal with life on life's terms. I tailor my practice to each client's individual needs. I believe that each person has within him or her the ability to be emotionally well.
(984) 205-4891 View (984) 205-4891
Photo of Stacia Marie Harlan, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Stacia Marie Harlan
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27530
My heart has always been drawn to helping and encouraging others. My desire and passion is working with children, adolescents, and women who are going through life challenges or have experienced events in their past that need to be brought to the surface so that true, lasting healing can occur. I believe that the most important aspect of counseling is my relationship with the client and that is my main focus with my clients. I am currently accepting BCBS, Med Cost, and self pay If you are interested in my services, please call me so that we can discuss fees.
My heart has always been drawn to helping and encouraging others. My desire and passion is working with children, adolescents, and women who are going through life challenges or have experienced events in their past that need to be brought to the surface so that true, lasting healing can occur. I believe that the most important aspect of counseling is my relationship with the client and that is my main focus with my clients. I am currently accepting BCBS, Med Cost, and self pay If you are interested in my services, please call me so that we can discuss fees.
(984) 205-9340 View (984) 205-9340
Photo of LaQuanta Grady Hobbs - Healing Is Possible PLLC, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Healing Is Possible PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing excessive worry, not able to manage worry, avoiding situations that trigger anxiety, experiencing panic attacks, have difficulty relaxing and feel anxious, nervous and on edge? Do you overthink and overanalyze most situations and have a hard time trusting yourself to handle difficult situations? Feel the need to always be prepared for the worst and to control situations? Are you experiencing worries about the future, feeling stuck in the past and not sure how to move forward? We can work together to develop strategies to decrease worry and develop healthy coping skills to keep anxiety under control.
Are you experiencing excessive worry, not able to manage worry, avoiding situations that trigger anxiety, experiencing panic attacks, have difficulty relaxing and feel anxious, nervous and on edge? Do you overthink and overanalyze most situations and have a hard time trusting yourself to handle difficult situations? Feel the need to always be prepared for the worst and to control situations? Are you experiencing worries about the future, feeling stuck in the past and not sure how to move forward? We can work together to develop strategies to decrease worry and develop healthy coping skills to keep anxiety under control.
(919) 739-2979 View (919) 739-2979
Photo of Achovia D Jones - Aspirations by Achovia PLLC, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI, NCC, Counselor
Aspirations by Achovia PLLC
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI, NCC
Verified Verified
Seven Springs, NC 28578  (Online Only)
I believe that your life has a purpose, and I am here to help you find YOUR Purpose! People asked all the time HOW?! How can I change, How Can I stop feeling this way? I say Be Honest, Be Open, Be Willing! Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to acquire my services. I am ecstatic that you have chosen me to walk this path of life with you as you seek guidance in traveling though life’s many journeys.
I believe that your life has a purpose, and I am here to help you find YOUR Purpose! People asked all the time HOW?! How can I change, How Can I stop feeling this way? I say Be Honest, Be Open, Be Willing! Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to acquire my services. I am ecstatic that you have chosen me to walk this path of life with you as you seek guidance in traveling though life’s many journeys.
(336) 606-4316 View (336) 606-4316
Photo of Melissa Sugg - Clark Christian Counseling, BS, LPC Intern
Clark Christian Counseling
LPC Intern, BS
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
Hello! I'm Melissa, the Counselor who works in the Goldsboro office of Clark Christian Counseling!
Hello! I'm Melissa, the Counselor who works in the Goldsboro office of Clark Christian Counseling!
(984) 355-8639 View (984) 355-8639
Photo of Rose Stevenson, LCMHC, Counselor
Rose Stevenson
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27530
I have a love for people and as long as I can remember, I walked in the role as a counselor before I realized it was a profession. My greatest passion is helping others in any capacity. I was a School teacher for over 20 years teaching grades 6-9. As a teacher, I wore many hats which included being a counselor for my students as well as the entire school. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I attended Liberty University where I received my Masters’ Degree in Professional Counseling.
I have a love for people and as long as I can remember, I walked in the role as a counselor before I realized it was a profession. My greatest passion is helping others in any capacity. I was a School teacher for over 20 years teaching grades 6-9. As a teacher, I wore many hats which included being a counselor for my students as well as the entire school. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I attended Liberty University where I received my Masters’ Degree in Professional Counseling.
(919) 739-2985 View (919) 739-2985
Photo of Magniola Duré, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Magniola Duré
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534  (Online Only)
Are you seeking clarity amidst life's complexities? Are you grappling with stress, and anxiety, or navigating challenging relationships? As a therapist, I aim to provide a safe haven for exploration and healing. Whether you are confronting past traumas, seeking strategies for managing daily stressors, or simply longing to uncover your true potential, I am here to support you. I aim to empower you on your journey towards a balanced and fulfilling life. Together, let's unravel the layers, discover strengths, and embark on a path toward lasting well-being.
Are you seeking clarity amidst life's complexities? Are you grappling with stress, and anxiety, or navigating challenging relationships? As a therapist, I aim to provide a safe haven for exploration and healing. Whether you are confronting past traumas, seeking strategies for managing daily stressors, or simply longing to uncover your true potential, I am here to support you. I aim to empower you on your journey towards a balanced and fulfilling life. Together, let's unravel the layers, discover strengths, and embark on a path toward lasting well-being.
(984) 208-2628 View (984) 208-2628
Photo of Jolona Kinlaw - I've Overcome Counseling and Consulting Services , LCMHC, LCAS , NCC
I've Overcome Counseling and Consulting Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS , NCC
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27530
I’ve Overcome Counseling Services was created to help individuals, couples, and families find themselves again through an integrative approach designed to facilitate the renewing of the mind. Schedule a free consultation to find out how we can partner and BECOME unstuck!
I’ve Overcome Counseling Services was created to help individuals, couples, and families find themselves again through an integrative approach designed to facilitate the renewing of the mind. Schedule a free consultation to find out how we can partner and BECOME unstuck!
(919) 635-8981 View (919) 635-8981
Photo of Michael Lamont Headen - Simplicity Counseling Services, PLLC, LCMHC , LCAS, CCS
Simplicity Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
**Immediate openings for any and all clients**. Struggling from time to time with anxiety, depressed moods, anger outburst, unsure of self worth, identity issues, marital conflict, communication issues. Personal growth and enhancing self-worth, overcoming doubt of one's abilities. Developing a more healthy outlook in life and striving to be a more fully functioning caring human being. Trying to recover or not relapse back to a previous addiction. Issues with trauma or trauma related issues I can help. Recently completed training in EMDR (Dec 2023) which could help address these concerns.
**Immediate openings for any and all clients**. Struggling from time to time with anxiety, depressed moods, anger outburst, unsure of self worth, identity issues, marital conflict, communication issues. Personal growth and enhancing self-worth, overcoming doubt of one's abilities. Developing a more healthy outlook in life and striving to be a more fully functioning caring human being. Trying to recover or not relapse back to a previous addiction. Issues with trauma or trauma related issues I can help. Recently completed training in EMDR (Dec 2023) which could help address these concerns.
(919) 351-8222 View (919) 351-8222
Photo of Jean Brown, LCMHC
Jean Brown
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27530
As a licensed counselor, I have experience working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, OCD, anger issues, or having a hard time with life changes. I am prepared to meet you where you are and take you to your desired outcome using tools that you can use on your own. Whether you are a teen experiencing teenage issues such as bullying, peer pressure, social media addiction, or an adult dealing with a family crisis or life changes, I can provide the counseling and individualized support necessary to handle these challenges.
As a licensed counselor, I have experience working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, OCD, anger issues, or having a hard time with life changes. I am prepared to meet you where you are and take you to your desired outcome using tools that you can use on your own. Whether you are a teen experiencing teenage issues such as bullying, peer pressure, social media addiction, or an adult dealing with a family crisis or life changes, I can provide the counseling and individualized support necessary to handle these challenges.
(980) 983-1460 View (980) 983-1460
Photo of M Deane Forsythe, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
M Deane Forsythe
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goldsboro, NC 27534
That idea you have in your head about what therapy is and that picture of what a therapist is supposed to be-yeah THAT one-it isn’t like that here. If you've tried therapy before and HATED it, if you're ready to make moves in your life, ready to get real and own your shit, or if you need a safe space to dump with a REAL person that doesn’t give a shit what it is you did or think you did, let me introduce myself. I prefer to see adults but I will make exceptions for adolescents age 16 and over, provided they pass the vibe check. We do real talk here and nothing less-unadulterated authenticity.
That idea you have in your head about what therapy is and that picture of what a therapist is supposed to be-yeah THAT one-it isn’t like that here. If you've tried therapy before and HATED it, if you're ready to make moves in your life, ready to get real and own your shit, or if you need a safe space to dump with a REAL person that doesn’t give a shit what it is you did or think you did, let me introduce myself. I prefer to see adults but I will make exceptions for adolescents age 16 and over, provided they pass the vibe check. We do real talk here and nothing less-unadulterated authenticity.
(919) 897-7868 View (919) 897-7868
Photo of Dana Cea, PhD, MS, CPSS, CRC, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Dana Cea
Counselor, PhD, MS, CPSS, CRC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikeville, NC 27863  (Online Only)
Whether this is your first or the millionth therapist you have reached out to, you are taking the time to find the best fit. Have you diagnosed yourself with autism? Or felt an autism diagnosis is the missing part of your life? Maybe you have felt “different” your whole life, or perhaps you recently started exploring the possibility of neurodivergence. You may be struggling to connect with others or simply to survive day-to-day. Perhaps you’re feeling frustrated and want the answers you have been searching for.
Whether this is your first or the millionth therapist you have reached out to, you are taking the time to find the best fit. Have you diagnosed yourself with autism? Or felt an autism diagnosis is the missing part of your life? Maybe you have felt “different” your whole life, or perhaps you recently started exploring the possibility of neurodivergence. You may be struggling to connect with others or simply to survive day-to-day. Perhaps you’re feeling frustrated and want the answers you have been searching for.
(252) 254-2510 View (252) 254-2510
Photo of Tiffany J Compton - Therapeutic Treasures Mental Health Counseling , LCMHC, LCAS-A, Counselor
Therapeutic Treasures Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Pikeville, NC 27863
Hi, I am Tiffany, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate for Therapeutic Treasures Mental Health Counseling. If you have come across my profile, chances are you may be at a crossroad in your life. Guess what, it’s perfectly fine; we have all been at a crossroad at one time or another. I am here to assist you with navigating through life’s challenges. As a seasoned therapist, I understand the importance of providing support, empathy, guidance, and compassion. Together, we will identify strengths and patterns to assist you with making meaningful changes in your life.
Hi, I am Tiffany, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate for Therapeutic Treasures Mental Health Counseling. If you have come across my profile, chances are you may be at a crossroad in your life. Guess what, it’s perfectly fine; we have all been at a crossroad at one time or another. I am here to assist you with navigating through life’s challenges. As a seasoned therapist, I understand the importance of providing support, empathy, guidance, and compassion. Together, we will identify strengths and patterns to assist you with making meaningful changes in your life.
(984) 315-7551 View (984) 315-7551
Photo of Karry Grady, LCMHC-A
Karry Grady
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
Waitlist for new clients
Are you searching for relief from trauma, anxiety or depression? I’m Karry, a LCMHC-A passionate about working with trauma survivors, children, teens & adults who want to heal or grow in their journey. I use an integrative approach and tailor my client’s treatment based on their individual needs. I'm passionate about my role as a therapist & remain engaged in continued education & personal learning to be the best for my clients.
Are you searching for relief from trauma, anxiety or depression? I’m Karry, a LCMHC-A passionate about working with trauma survivors, children, teens & adults who want to heal or grow in their journey. I use an integrative approach and tailor my client’s treatment based on their individual needs. I'm passionate about my role as a therapist & remain engaged in continued education & personal learning to be the best for my clients.
(919) 328-3050 View (919) 328-3050
Photo of Marvin R Alexander, MDiv, MRT, PC, CC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marvin R Alexander
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MRT, PC, CC
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27530
***WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS*** at Mephibosheth Project Inc. (MPI) we realize that at some point all of us have found ourselves in the midst of some stressful seasons of life. We refer to those rough seasons as "drops." The reality is that each of us have been dropped at some point and each drop can potentially leave us with some scars - be it emotionally, mentally and in some cases even spiritually. Our goal is to provide a holistic approach to the counseling process. Spiritual Psychotherapy helps to give us the strength to continue our journey and ensures that you have someone that is willing to walk along side of you.
***WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS*** at Mephibosheth Project Inc. (MPI) we realize that at some point all of us have found ourselves in the midst of some stressful seasons of life. We refer to those rough seasons as "drops." The reality is that each of us have been dropped at some point and each drop can potentially leave us with some scars - be it emotionally, mentally and in some cases even spiritually. Our goal is to provide a holistic approach to the counseling process. Spiritual Psychotherapy helps to give us the strength to continue our journey and ensures that you have someone that is willing to walk along side of you.
(919) 739-4258 View (919) 739-4258
1

See more therapy options for Wayne County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Wayne County, NC

60+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Wayne County, NC who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
86% Depression
75% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
72% Stress
71% Relationship Issues
55% Grief

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Wayne County, NC see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Wayne County?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

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.