Therapists in Grand Rapids, OH

Photo of Sarah Wearsch, MEd, LSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Wearsch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, OH 43522
Welcome, kudos to you for taking this important step! I'm a dually licensed and seasoned therapist. If you are in Ohio and want to address any of the following, please reach out to me at your convenience. Abandonment, addiction, anger, anxiety, bereavement, betrayal, depression, DV/IPV, fearfulness, grief, hopelessness, isolation, loneliness, low self-esteem, mood swings, narcissistic or toxic relationships, negativity, neglect, nervousness, panic, perfectionism, post traumatic stress disorder, SA, self-sabotage, sexuality, sleep problems, social anxiety, social skills, stress, substance use, trauma, +/or unhealthy coping skills.
Welcome, kudos to you for taking this important step! I'm a dually licensed and seasoned therapist. If you are in Ohio and want to address any of the following, please reach out to me at your convenience. Abandonment, addiction, anger, anxiety, bereavement, betrayal, depression, DV/IPV, fearfulness, grief, hopelessness, isolation, loneliness, low self-esteem, mood swings, narcissistic or toxic relationships, negativity, neglect, nervousness, panic, perfectionism, post traumatic stress disorder, SA, self-sabotage, sexuality, sleep problems, social anxiety, social skills, stress, substance use, trauma, +/or unhealthy coping skills.
(567) 343-0709 View (567) 343-0709
Photo of Cynthia Kenny, MA, LPCC-S
Cynthia Kenny
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, OH 43522
Not accepting new clients
Living your best life can be challenging, especially when upsetting and confusing things happen suddenly or continue over time. These stressful events often cause people to feel changed or different than before the stress. You may feel stuck, or that your life has become unmanageable. I will be your guide, your instructor, and your trusted counselor as you develop the strengths you need to work on the deeper issues that may be holding you back. I work well with adults of all ages using a person-centered, trauma-informed approach to help you learn effective skills to calm the body and soothe the mind.
Living your best life can be challenging, especially when upsetting and confusing things happen suddenly or continue over time. These stressful events often cause people to feel changed or different than before the stress. You may feel stuck, or that your life has become unmanageable. I will be your guide, your instructor, and your trusted counselor as you develop the strengths you need to work on the deeper issues that may be holding you back. I work well with adults of all ages using a person-centered, trauma-informed approach to help you learn effective skills to calm the body and soothe the mind.
(567) 234-7859 View (567) 234-7859
Photo of Kimberly Avallone, PhD, Psychologist
Kimberly Avallone
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, OH 43522  (Online Only)
Dr. Avallone is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and related disorders. Dr. Avallone is committed to providing effective evidence-based treatments in order to help individuals learn skills to manage current and future symptoms successfully. She has received advanced training in evidence-based treatments for PTSD and trauma, including Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). She is also a trained PE and PE for primary care (PE-PC) consultant.
Dr. Avallone is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and related disorders. Dr. Avallone is committed to providing effective evidence-based treatments in order to help individuals learn skills to manage current and future symptoms successfully. She has received advanced training in evidence-based treatments for PTSD and trauma, including Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). She is also a trained PE and PE for primary care (PE-PC) consultant.
(734) 530-3715 View (734) 530-3715
Photo of Rachelle Dunno, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachelle Dunno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, OH 43522
Lately you're lucky to make it through a whole day without, at least once, daydreaming about quitting your job, ending your relationship, and starting over in a new state. You don't remember life, work, and relationships being this hard. Plus, now you're experiencing guilt because of these thoughts! You used to enjoy these parts of your life and found real meaning and deep value from them. You can't remember when everything changed and it seems impossible to get back to that place where you felt excited about the day, felt heard and understood, confident, and hopeful. I know you're struggling, but I also see you haven't given up.
Lately you're lucky to make it through a whole day without, at least once, daydreaming about quitting your job, ending your relationship, and starting over in a new state. You don't remember life, work, and relationships being this hard. Plus, now you're experiencing guilt because of these thoughts! You used to enjoy these parts of your life and found real meaning and deep value from them. You can't remember when everything changed and it seems impossible to get back to that place where you felt excited about the day, felt heard and understood, confident, and hopeful. I know you're struggling, but I also see you haven't given up.
(567) 405-2525 View (567) 405-2525

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Angie Swonger, LPCC
Angie Swonger
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Waterville, OH 43566
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Angie Swonger is trained in mental health, individual, group, and relationship counseling. As an ordained minister through Church of God (Anderson, IN) she practices from a strength and faith-based perspective.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Angie Swonger is trained in mental health, individual, group, and relationship counseling. As an ordained minister through Church of God (Anderson, IN) she practices from a strength and faith-based perspective.
(567) 229-3313 View (567) 229-3313
Photo of Erin Anderson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Waterville, OH 43566
You may be here because you feel like you’re struggling. Whether that struggle is new or has been ongoing for years, something may feel broken and you’re not sure how it can be fixed. Your mental health is the product of many different experiences and dimensions of your life. Taking a holistic approach, we will collaborate to explore emotions and clarify the underlying circumstances that influence them. We will identify your personal goals and discuss a tailored approach to help you feel well again. I believe in your ability to find healing and joy. My intention is for you to begin to believe it for yourself.
You may be here because you feel like you’re struggling. Whether that struggle is new or has been ongoing for years, something may feel broken and you’re not sure how it can be fixed. Your mental health is the product of many different experiences and dimensions of your life. Taking a holistic approach, we will collaborate to explore emotions and clarify the underlying circumstances that influence them. We will identify your personal goals and discuss a tailored approach to help you feel well again. I believe in your ability to find healing and joy. My intention is for you to begin to believe it for yourself.
(419) 595-4541 View (419) 595-4541
Photo of Paula Lynn Rettig, MS, LPC, LCDC II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paula Lynn Rettig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napoleon, OH 43545
Something brought you to this Website today. Perhaps the anxiety, sadness, or moodiness that started as a slight inconvenience has become crippling. Perhaps you are starting to avoid people or places. It is also possible that you are having difficulty in your workplace, in your relationships, with managing your daily life. No matter what brought you here, you are taking an important first step by simply thinking about counseling.
Something brought you to this Website today. Perhaps the anxiety, sadness, or moodiness that started as a slight inconvenience has become crippling. Perhaps you are starting to avoid people or places. It is also possible that you are having difficulty in your workplace, in your relationships, with managing your daily life. No matter what brought you here, you are taking an important first step by simply thinking about counseling.
(567) 323-5620 View (567) 323-5620
Photo of Sarah Darrow, EdS, Psychologist
Sarah Darrow
Psychologist, EdS
Verified Verified
Whitehouse, OH 43571
Whenever there is a child struggling in school, odds are, there are parents struggling to figure out the best way to help that child. Darrow Psychological Services provides educational testing to help provide the insight that is needed in order to help the child reach their full potential.
Whenever there is a child struggling in school, odds are, there are parents struggling to figure out the best way to help that child. Darrow Psychological Services provides educational testing to help provide the insight that is needed in order to help the child reach their full potential.
(419) 556-6508 View (419) 556-6508
Photo of Amanda Stilwell, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Amanda Stilwell
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Waterville, OH 43566
Not accepting new clients
I believe that healing can occur when we feel seen, heard, and understood. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-exploration, open and genuine connections can allow us to grow and build the skills needed for change. I approach therapy as a collaborative process in which we work together to increase understanding and awareness. A strong therapeutic relationship can be a powerful tool to promote healing, and I aim to create a safe environment that allows clients to be their authentic selves.
I believe that healing can occur when we feel seen, heard, and understood. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-exploration, open and genuine connections can allow us to grow and build the skills needed for change. I approach therapy as a collaborative process in which we work together to increase understanding and awareness. A strong therapeutic relationship can be a powerful tool to promote healing, and I aim to create a safe environment that allows clients to be their authentic selves.
(419) 909-3730 View (419) 909-3730
Photo of Marie Zanfardino, MA, LPCC-S, Counselor
Marie Zanfardino
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Waterville, OH 43566
You can do this! Welcome to my profile and thank you for having the courage to take the first step towards a counseling relationship. I am an independently licensed counselor skilled in using evidence-based interventions to help my clients achieve their goals. I specialize in relationships. I see clients during the week and on weekends.
You can do this! Welcome to my profile and thank you for having the courage to take the first step towards a counseling relationship. I am an independently licensed counselor skilled in using evidence-based interventions to help my clients achieve their goals. I specialize in relationships. I see clients during the week and on weekends.
(567) 229-1850 View (567) 229-1850
Photo of Emma Southwick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Southwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, OH 43566
Even when life feels like it should be going well, we can often feel like we wrestle with managing. The first step in this process is to notice when and where we are struggling. The second is to work towards making changes in our lives for the better. You don’t have to handle those situations on your own. My style is to incorporate a strengths-based approach while using a blend of techniques. I enjoy working alongside my clients to collaboratively create goals to help them tackle whatever life challenges they are facing and assist in their journey of creating a life they want.
Even when life feels like it should be going well, we can often feel like we wrestle with managing. The first step in this process is to notice when and where we are struggling. The second is to work towards making changes in our lives for the better. You don’t have to handle those situations on your own. My style is to incorporate a strengths-based approach while using a blend of techniques. I enjoy working alongside my clients to collaboratively create goals to help them tackle whatever life challenges they are facing and assist in their journey of creating a life they want.
(567) 423-4255 View (567) 423-4255
Photo of Ruth M Miller (North Star Therapy), MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth M Miller (North Star Therapy)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, OH 43566
Not accepting new clients
Part of being human is that we all experience challenges, suffering, and brokenness in our lives. Taking the first step can feel daunting, but please accept my warm invitation into a relationship based on trust and the inherent belief in your goodness. It is my ongoing commitment to bring acceptance, understanding, open-mindedness, empathy, empowerment, and respect to the therapeutic relationship. I view the road to transformation and healing to be a collaborative process in which your personal knowledge and strengths will be used in conjunction with my clinical approach to discover a future filled with hope and possibilities.
Part of being human is that we all experience challenges, suffering, and brokenness in our lives. Taking the first step can feel daunting, but please accept my warm invitation into a relationship based on trust and the inherent belief in your goodness. It is my ongoing commitment to bring acceptance, understanding, open-mindedness, empathy, empowerment, and respect to the therapeutic relationship. I view the road to transformation and healing to be a collaborative process in which your personal knowledge and strengths will be used in conjunction with my clinical approach to discover a future filled with hope and possibilities.
(567) 302-7005 View (567) 302-7005
Photo of Amy Childers, MA, LPCC, S
Amy Childers
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, OH 43566
Amy works with individuals and couples of all walks of life. With over 25 years of combined experience, she assists survivors of trauma and loss including death, divorce, and a multitude of life changes and transformations. She helps individuals living with grief, all forms of loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD, codependency and adult children of alcoholics. Amy guides couples and individuals with sexuality concerns, communication and relationship-building, as well as spirituality and life adjustments. She encompasses mind-body-energy healing practices to fit the client's worldviews and needs.
Amy works with individuals and couples of all walks of life. With over 25 years of combined experience, she assists survivors of trauma and loss including death, divorce, and a multitude of life changes and transformations. She helps individuals living with grief, all forms of loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD, codependency and adult children of alcoholics. Amy guides couples and individuals with sexuality concerns, communication and relationship-building, as well as spirituality and life adjustments. She encompasses mind-body-energy healing practices to fit the client's worldviews and needs.
(567) 229-3800 View (567) 229-3800
Photo of Elizabeth F Hannon, LISW, S, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth F Hannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, S, BCD
Verified Verified
Whitehouse, OH 43571  (Online Only)
Therapy is a collaborative process that is built on trust and fosters insight as well as growth. It is important to me to create a safe, open, and non-judgmental atmosphere where Clients feel comfortable to share as well as express their unique life experiences. My Practice is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, and Holistic Coaching. I utilize Affirmative Psychotherapy in which I meet people where they are in their own space and time. My clients would describe me as passionate, caring and humorous.
Therapy is a collaborative process that is built on trust and fosters insight as well as growth. It is important to me to create a safe, open, and non-judgmental atmosphere where Clients feel comfortable to share as well as express their unique life experiences. My Practice is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions, and Holistic Coaching. I utilize Affirmative Psychotherapy in which I meet people where they are in their own space and time. My clients would describe me as passionate, caring and humorous.
(419) 548-5348 View (419) 548-5348
Photo of Sarah Roper (Roper Counseling), MA, LPCC-S, LPSC, NCC, EMDR, Counselor
Sarah Roper (Roper Counseling)
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LPSC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Whitehouse, OH 43571
Never underestimate the power of your story and know that your voice matters!I believe that counseling is a process of telling ones story. I treat children, adolescents and adults facing anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family conflict, peer relationships, self esteem, coping strategies and more. I specifically have worked with children through early adulthood and families for over 18 years. I believe we all have mental health and that our health is on a spectrum. Sometimes we need a little extra guidance, help and support. And I look forward to helping you with this!
Never underestimate the power of your story and know that your voice matters!I believe that counseling is a process of telling ones story. I treat children, adolescents and adults facing anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family conflict, peer relationships, self esteem, coping strategies and more. I specifically have worked with children through early adulthood and families for over 18 years. I believe we all have mental health and that our health is on a spectrum. Sometimes we need a little extra guidance, help and support. And I look forward to helping you with this!
(567) 229-9057 View (567) 229-9057
Photo of Jason Morris, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, OH 43566
You never thought you would feel like this, but here you are. You're feeling lost and uncertain of yourself, your relationships, even your feelings. You don't know what direction you are heading or where you should go. You've tried to explain your feelings to those closest to you, but being vulnerable is some scary shit. It's all so exhausting. All you know is that you are ready to make some changes. You are tired of feeling stuck and the changes might be scary, but nothing is as frightening as staying like this. You haven't felt like yourself in a long time and trying to find that version of you on your own isn't working right now.
You never thought you would feel like this, but here you are. You're feeling lost and uncertain of yourself, your relationships, even your feelings. You don't know what direction you are heading or where you should go. You've tried to explain your feelings to those closest to you, but being vulnerable is some scary shit. It's all so exhausting. All you know is that you are ready to make some changes. You are tired of feeling stuck and the changes might be scary, but nothing is as frightening as staying like this. You haven't felt like yourself in a long time and trying to find that version of you on your own isn't working right now.
(567) 278-9731 View (567) 278-9731
Photo of Tyler Vorst, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tyler Vorst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Waterville, OH 43566
Tyler is passionate about working with older teens, adults, first responders, military/veterans and their families. I enjoy working with motivated clients who know that they are struggling with their mental health but are not sure what it is or what to do. I specialize in working with complex trauma and enjoy helping clients working towards post-traumatic growth.
Tyler is passionate about working with older teens, adults, first responders, military/veterans and their families. I enjoy working with motivated clients who know that they are struggling with their mental health but are not sure what it is or what to do. I specialize in working with complex trauma and enjoy helping clients working towards post-traumatic growth.
(567) 221-3479 View (567) 221-3479
Photo of Derek Stegner, LPCC
Derek Stegner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Whitehouse, OH 43571  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
(419) 670-6842 View (419) 670-6842
Photo of Hope Meyer, MEd, LPCC
Hope Meyer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Waterville, OH 43566
Hope is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and certified EMDR therapist who works with adults 18 years and older from various paths in life. With over 10 years of combined experience in both mental health and school settings, Hope supports individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief and loss issues, self-esteem issues, PTSD, and childhood traumas. She also connects and empathizes with individuals impacted by chronic health issues, stressful life transitions, family and parenting concerns, as well as a variety of relationship difficulties.
Hope is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and certified EMDR therapist who works with adults 18 years and older from various paths in life. With over 10 years of combined experience in both mental health and school settings, Hope supports individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief and loss issues, self-esteem issues, PTSD, and childhood traumas. She also connects and empathizes with individuals impacted by chronic health issues, stressful life transitions, family and parenting concerns, as well as a variety of relationship difficulties.
(419) 904-5470 View (419) 904-5470
Photo of Amanda Marie Bradley, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Marie Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, OH 43566
Making the choice to begin therapy is not a decision that is made lightly. I understand how challenging it can be to find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs! I provide therapy with a client focused approach. I believe that you are the expert on your life and you are coming to therapy looking for assistance on how to reach your goals. I am seasoned in working with clients that have been experiencing anxiety, depression, anger and substance use. I enjoy working with women, first responders, veterans and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
Making the choice to begin therapy is not a decision that is made lightly. I understand how challenging it can be to find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs! I provide therapy with a client focused approach. I believe that you are the expert on your life and you are coming to therapy looking for assistance on how to reach your goals. I am seasoned in working with clients that have been experiencing anxiety, depression, anger and substance use. I enjoy working with women, first responders, veterans and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
(567) 298-6486 View (567) 298-6486

See more therapy options for Grand Rapids

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Grand Rapids, OH

< 10

Therapists in Grand Rapids, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Coping Skills
100% Self Esteem
100% Stress
100% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

50% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Grand Rapids, OH see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Grand Rapids?

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.