Therapists in Elk River, MN

Photo of Charlotte McDonald - Main Street Family Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Main Street Family Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Our compassionate and trauma-informed therapists can provide individual and family services based on individual mental health needs. We have therapists who specialize in foster care and adoption, early childhood trauma, fetal alcohol exposure, anxiety and depression, chemical use concerns, adolescent identity challenges, and family conflict.
Our compassionate and trauma-informed therapists can provide individual and family services based on individual mental health needs. We have therapists who specialize in foster care and adoption, early childhood trauma, fetal alcohol exposure, anxiety and depression, chemical use concerns, adolescent identity challenges, and family conflict.
(763) 363-6973 View (763) 363-6973
Photo of Kelsey Larson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelsey Larson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
Not accepting new clients
I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, and their families who are experiencing struggles with transition, adjustments, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, anger, and grief. I work to help you and your family find your creative ability to communicate and work through your struggles. Being a parent has its challenges! I provide parenting support to help you and your family through those challenges. I also provide individual therapeutic services for a range of mental health challenges.
I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, and their families who are experiencing struggles with transition, adjustments, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, anger, and grief. I work to help you and your family find your creative ability to communicate and work through your struggles. Being a parent has its challenges! I provide parenting support to help you and your family through those challenges. I also provide individual therapeutic services for a range of mental health challenges.
(320) 348-7535 View (320) 348-7535
Photo of Sarah Sumner, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Sumner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
You are doing your best to just keep it together. You feel disconnected and lonely even in a room filled with people. You’re stressed out and irritated by stupidity every day. Most days you are exhausted because sleeping isn’t an option while anxious and self-defeating thoughts run circles in your mind. You never feel good enough and you try to get through each day without telling someone to “f” off, but once in a while you can’t hold it back and some unfortunate bystander (an idiot driver, of course) gets the brunt of your frustrations with life. This isn’t how it has to be anymore. It’s time for things to change.
You are doing your best to just keep it together. You feel disconnected and lonely even in a room filled with people. You’re stressed out and irritated by stupidity every day. Most days you are exhausted because sleeping isn’t an option while anxious and self-defeating thoughts run circles in your mind. You never feel good enough and you try to get through each day without telling someone to “f” off, but once in a while you can’t hold it back and some unfortunate bystander (an idiot driver, of course) gets the brunt of your frustrations with life. This isn’t how it has to be anymore. It’s time for things to change.
(763) 402-9446 View (763) 402-9446
Photo of Cherise Haugen, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cherise Haugen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Hi There! I have my Master's Degree in Clinical Social work, and over 14 years of experience in the Social Services and Mental Health fields. I have experience working with individuals ages 8 and up, who may be having difficulty in a wide range of areas from stress and anxiety to depression and chronic health issues. I greatly enjoy working with individuals who are looking for a therapist they can trust; is approachable; and will be their biggest cheerleader, while encouraging them to face daily challenges and meet their goals.
Hi There! I have my Master's Degree in Clinical Social work, and over 14 years of experience in the Social Services and Mental Health fields. I have experience working with individuals ages 8 and up, who may be having difficulty in a wide range of areas from stress and anxiety to depression and chronic health issues. I greatly enjoy working with individuals who are looking for a therapist they can trust; is approachable; and will be their biggest cheerleader, while encouraging them to face daily challenges and meet their goals.
(320) 378-9183 View (320) 378-9183
Photo of Katie Nelson, MA, LPCC
Katie Nelson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
If you’re new to therapy, I’m here for you. If you had a bad experience with therapy in the past, I’m here for you. If you are hesitant to start mental health services, or looking for a new provider, I’m here for you. Starting therapy can be scary, I will walk along side you normalizing the human experience, de-stigmatize and provide psychoeducation on mental health, and help you work towards your optimal functioning. I value transparency, vulnerability, humor, and compassion and will help you with tools and strategies to get you back to feeling more like yourself right away.
If you’re new to therapy, I’m here for you. If you had a bad experience with therapy in the past, I’m here for you. If you are hesitant to start mental health services, or looking for a new provider, I’m here for you. Starting therapy can be scary, I will walk along side you normalizing the human experience, de-stigmatize and provide psychoeducation on mental health, and help you work towards your optimal functioning. I value transparency, vulnerability, humor, and compassion and will help you with tools and strategies to get you back to feeling more like yourself right away.
(763) 878-7446 View (763) 878-7446
Photo of Jennifer Yates, MA, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Yates
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
My goal is to provide a safe and empowering environment for clients to share problems and stressors. Since 2008, I have worked with clients struggling with a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, addiction, co-occurring disorders, family strain, low self-esteem/confidence, audism, isolation, and communication barriers.
My goal is to provide a safe and empowering environment for clients to share problems and stressors. Since 2008, I have worked with clients struggling with a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, addiction, co-occurring disorders, family strain, low self-esteem/confidence, audism, isolation, and communication barriers.
(763) 878-8504 View (763) 878-8504
Photo of Tia Dvorak - ReGroup Counseling and Consulting PSC, LMFT-S, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
ReGroup Counseling and Consulting PSC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
Waitlist for new clients
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, mental health care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. We provide individual and family therapy. Our therapists have experience in many treatment areas including CBT, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, CD Recovery, to name a few. We offer medication management with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner. We collaborate with a pediatric occupational therapist and have her onsite in our Elk River location. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, mental health care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. We provide individual and family therapy. Our therapists have experience in many treatment areas including CBT, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, CD Recovery, to name a few. We offer medication management with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner. We collaborate with a pediatric occupational therapist and have her onsite in our Elk River location. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their
(763) 296-2562 View (763) 296-2562
Photo of Liz Iverson, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Liz Iverson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Not accepting new clients
I have a passion in working with children, adolescents, and their families who are experiencing struggles with transitions, adjustment issues, family conflict, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, anger, grief, and trauma. I also provide services to adult individuals who are struggling with adjustment issues, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, and self-esteem. I provide a comfortable environment of encouragement, respect, and empowerment to assist clients in acquiring new knowledge and skills to be equipped in reaching their therapeutic goals and strengthen their primary relationships.
I have a passion in working with children, adolescents, and their families who are experiencing struggles with transitions, adjustment issues, family conflict, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, anger, grief, and trauma. I also provide services to adult individuals who are struggling with adjustment issues, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, and self-esteem. I provide a comfortable environment of encouragement, respect, and empowerment to assist clients in acquiring new knowledge and skills to be equipped in reaching their therapeutic goals and strengthen their primary relationships.
(763) 363-2537 View (763) 363-2537
Photo of Maura Freshour, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maura Freshour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Maura Freshour, LICSW, is the therapist behind Fresh Outlook Therapy for Children and Parents. She is passionate about working with children ages 3+ and parents at any stage of their parenting journey: family planning, experiencing infertility, miscarriage, postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, adoption, step-parenting, and parents experiencing family change. Maura works closely with outside providers, schools, and supports to address all challenges and concerns. Maura utilizes attachment and connection-based approaches to heal and create lasting change.
Maura Freshour, LICSW, is the therapist behind Fresh Outlook Therapy for Children and Parents. She is passionate about working with children ages 3+ and parents at any stage of their parenting journey: family planning, experiencing infertility, miscarriage, postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, adoption, step-parenting, and parents experiencing family change. Maura works closely with outside providers, schools, and supports to address all challenges and concerns. Maura utilizes attachment and connection-based approaches to heal and create lasting change.
(763) 325-9660 View (763) 325-9660
Photo of Katelyn Norwood, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Katelyn Norwood
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Welcome, I’m so happy you’re here! I enjoy working with individuals struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions. Being a recent college graduate myself (in 2022), I know how challenging it can be to try to find your place in the world. It can be overwhelming and confusing which is why my goal is to work alongside you to help establish & accomplish your desired goals/personal growth. I aim to find the right balance between challenging you to achieve your full potential & just meeting you where you’re at. I work with ages 10+, teens, and adults.
Welcome, I’m so happy you’re here! I enjoy working with individuals struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions. Being a recent college graduate myself (in 2022), I know how challenging it can be to try to find your place in the world. It can be overwhelming and confusing which is why my goal is to work alongside you to help establish & accomplish your desired goals/personal growth. I aim to find the right balance between challenging you to achieve your full potential & just meeting you where you’re at. I work with ages 10+, teens, and adults.
(320) 238-9568 View (320) 238-9568
Photo of Elizabeth Mann, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Mann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
You are living behind a mask and walking a path on life's journey but it doesn't totally feel like it's yours. You don't feel good enough and you have experiences in the past that cloud your day-to-day. You are ready to dive deep and live as your authentic self, but you don't know how to get there. Imagine waking up every day knowing you can trust yourself and show up as who you truly are. You are tuned in with your intuition and trust it to guide you and you navigate daily life with self-esteem and worth, boundaries, and confidence. It is possible! I am here to help.
You are living behind a mask and walking a path on life's journey but it doesn't totally feel like it's yours. You don't feel good enough and you have experiences in the past that cloud your day-to-day. You are ready to dive deep and live as your authentic self, but you don't know how to get there. Imagine waking up every day knowing you can trust yourself and show up as who you truly are. You are tuned in with your intuition and trust it to guide you and you navigate daily life with self-esteem and worth, boundaries, and confidence. It is possible! I am here to help.
(763) 317-0855 View (763) 317-0855
Photo of Hilary Greene, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hilary Greene
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
My goal as a therapist is to guide my clients in the exploration of their lives, within a safe and nurturing environment without judgement, to help them create the positive changes they desire. I have experience working with clients of all ages and specialize in working with adolescents and adults. I often work with clients on navigating life changes and challenges, depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, and trauma. I especially enjoy working with those transitioning from adolescence into adulthood. I have a passion for helping clients to identify and change deeply rooted patterns that are creating challenges within their lives.
My goal as a therapist is to guide my clients in the exploration of their lives, within a safe and nurturing environment without judgement, to help them create the positive changes they desire. I have experience working with clients of all ages and specialize in working with adolescents and adults. I often work with clients on navigating life changes and challenges, depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, and trauma. I especially enjoy working with those transitioning from adolescence into adulthood. I have a passion for helping clients to identify and change deeply rooted patterns that are creating challenges within their lives.
(763) 363-3109 View (763) 363-3109
Photo of Cindy Meyer, MA, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cindy Meyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
My goal is to provide you a safe, confidential space where you genuinely feel supported and heard as you to navigate through challenges you are currently experiencing. I hold the belief that you are the expert of your life and as a therapist it is my role to support you as you identify problems/goals that you would like to work on in therapy. Since 2005 I have worked with clients struggling with a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, addiction, family strain, low self-esteem/confidence, parenting, grief/loss and life transitions.
My goal is to provide you a safe, confidential space where you genuinely feel supported and heard as you to navigate through challenges you are currently experiencing. I hold the belief that you are the expert of your life and as a therapist it is my role to support you as you identify problems/goals that you would like to work on in therapy. Since 2005 I have worked with clients struggling with a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, addiction, family strain, low self-esteem/confidence, parenting, grief/loss and life transitions.
(763) 292-2426 View (763) 292-2426
Photo of Nancy Craft, MS LPCC
Nancy Craft
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS LPCC
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Not accepting new clients
Helping others help themselves has been the focus of my life’s work. I have over 25 years working with a diverse population of children/teens, adults, and families. My goal is to help individuals understand who they are, how their past, along with the patterns they have created, impact their present, and then to take that knowledge and figure out how to navigate to where they want to be. The therapy process includes empowering my clients in realizing their inner wisdom, and discovering their innate potential to lead a satisfying, fulfilling life. Whether it feels this way right now or not, you are the expert in your life!
Helping others help themselves has been the focus of my life’s work. I have over 25 years working with a diverse population of children/teens, adults, and families. My goal is to help individuals understand who they are, how their past, along with the patterns they have created, impact their present, and then to take that knowledge and figure out how to navigate to where they want to be. The therapy process includes empowering my clients in realizing their inner wisdom, and discovering their innate potential to lead a satisfying, fulfilling life. Whether it feels this way right now or not, you are the expert in your life!
(763) 265-6060 x3 View (763) 265-6060 x3
Photo of Shaylor Alley, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Shaylor Alley
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330
Have you struggled with trauma or addiction? I work with people who want help supporting their recovery from a troubled life, or those affected by a loved ones struggles. I offer office based therapy, online or therapeutic horsemanship (horsemanship through a therapeutic lens).
Have you struggled with trauma or addiction? I work with people who want help supporting their recovery from a troubled life, or those affected by a loved ones struggles. I offer office based therapy, online or therapeutic horsemanship (horsemanship through a therapeutic lens).
(763) 401-7224 x1 View (763) 401-7224 x1
Photo of Jenn Geryol, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenn Geryol
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Sometimes life is hard! Balancing busy lives, demanding jobs, parenting, and relationships can wear us down and make us feel like we've lost touch with our happiest and most authentic self. Anxiety, depression, past traumas, or a lack of skills and support from our own families of origin can leave us feeling disconnected, lonely, and without hope. When this happens, and you feel like you've lost yourself, where do you turn for help finding your way back to you?
Sometimes life is hard! Balancing busy lives, demanding jobs, parenting, and relationships can wear us down and make us feel like we've lost touch with our happiest and most authentic self. Anxiety, depression, past traumas, or a lack of skills and support from our own families of origin can leave us feeling disconnected, lonely, and without hope. When this happens, and you feel like you've lost yourself, where do you turn for help finding your way back to you?
(763) 373-6265 View (763) 373-6265
Photo of Nicole R.h. Baker, PhD, LMFT-S, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole R.h. Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, RPT
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Not accepting new clients
For 20 years I have worked with children, teens and adults to find their voice and empower themselves. I ensure my clients are treated with the utmost respect and honored for their individuality and uniqueness. The comfortable and caring environment of my office puts client's at ease. Integration of play and alternative methods of therapy provide client's the opportunity to work in a manner that best fits their needs during their healing journey.
For 20 years I have worked with children, teens and adults to find their voice and empower themselves. I ensure my clients are treated with the utmost respect and honored for their individuality and uniqueness. The comfortable and caring environment of my office puts client's at ease. Integration of play and alternative methods of therapy provide client's the opportunity to work in a manner that best fits their needs during their healing journey.
(763) 251-9263 View (763) 251-9263
Photo of Craig Rice, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Craig Rice
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk River, MN 55330  (Online Only)
I am well versed in several counseling techniques and have a compassionate approachable demeanor. My counseling experience is above par and I am also organized with an attention to detail. Clients warm up to me quickly and I enjoy helping them reach goals and learn new thinking patterns to view life in a more positive manner. My therapeutic style incorporates expert listening, positive feedback, direct guidance, and creating an environment where you will feel comfortable to discuss your personal thoughts and feelings. Therapy is a safe place to discuss things that cannot be shared with family, friends, or colleagues.
I am well versed in several counseling techniques and have a compassionate approachable demeanor. My counseling experience is above par and I am also organized with an attention to detail. Clients warm up to me quickly and I enjoy helping them reach goals and learn new thinking patterns to view life in a more positive manner. My therapeutic style incorporates expert listening, positive feedback, direct guidance, and creating an environment where you will feel comfortable to discuss your personal thoughts and feelings. Therapy is a safe place to discuss things that cannot be shared with family, friends, or colleagues.
(763) 760-1175 View (763) 760-1175
Photo of Amanda Hunter, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
Amanda is a dedicated clinical social worker with a wealth of experience in diverse settings. With a deep commitment to promoting and destigmatizing mental health, she is dedicated to making an impact on the lives of individuals and families facing various challenges. Throughout her career, Amanda has honed her skills in providing compassionate counseling and crisis intervention services. She is adept at navigating complex systems and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure holistic support for her clients.
Amanda is a dedicated clinical social worker with a wealth of experience in diverse settings. With a deep commitment to promoting and destigmatizing mental health, she is dedicated to making an impact on the lives of individuals and families facing various challenges. Throughout her career, Amanda has honed her skills in providing compassionate counseling and crisis intervention services. She is adept at navigating complex systems and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure holistic support for her clients.
(763) 343-7587 View (763) 343-7587
Photo of Tasha Burg, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tasha Burg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Elk River, MN 55330
I offer support to youth and adults coping with change, experiencing symptoms of anxiety, and depression. I strive for an equal focus on building on strengths and addressing challenges to cultivate resilience, discover a greater sense of well-being, and create more fulfilling relationships for an increasingly meaningful life. I especially love working with introverts, home schooling families, moms who work in the home and value a natural approach to health and growth. I offer practical tools to integrate into daily life with practices to release issues at the core resulting in a more empowered, authentic effortless effort.
I offer support to youth and adults coping with change, experiencing symptoms of anxiety, and depression. I strive for an equal focus on building on strengths and addressing challenges to cultivate resilience, discover a greater sense of well-being, and create more fulfilling relationships for an increasingly meaningful life. I especially love working with introverts, home schooling families, moms who work in the home and value a natural approach to health and growth. I offer practical tools to integrate into daily life with practices to release issues at the core resulting in a more empowered, authentic effortless effort.
(763) 342-1748 View (763) 342-1748
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Elk River, MN

60+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Elk River, MN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
90% Depression
84% Self Esteem
79% Relationship Issues
77% Trauma and PTSD
74% Coping Skills
73% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% HealthPartners of MN and WI
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Elk River, MN see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Elk River?

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.