Therapists in Mount Sterling, OH

Photo of Kristina Reeder, MSW,  LSW
Kristina Reeder
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, OH 43143
Krissi Reeder, LSW, provides compassionate and expert counseling to individuals and families, prioritizing their mental wellness and relational harmony. With a focus on marriage and family therapy, Krissi specializes in addressing a range of mental health concerns, guiding her clients toward healing and resilience. Krissi’s dedication extends to helping individuals cope with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. Her expertise also encompasses working with couples facing relationship challenges and individuals navigating bipolar disorder or psychosis.
Krissi Reeder, LSW, provides compassionate and expert counseling to individuals and families, prioritizing their mental wellness and relational harmony. With a focus on marriage and family therapy, Krissi specializes in addressing a range of mental health concerns, guiding her clients toward healing and resilience. Krissi’s dedication extends to helping individuals cope with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. Her expertise also encompasses working with couples facing relationship challenges and individuals navigating bipolar disorder or psychosis.
(614) 845-7347 View (614) 845-7347
Photo of Christa Carnahan, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christa Carnahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, OH 43143
Christa Carnahan is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1996. Christa is very good at starting where a client is. She thinks that she builds a rapport well. Christa has strong skills at goal setting and can help someone figure out what goals will fit best for them. She can assist someone in breaking these goals down into manageable steps to help them achieve each small goal to feel successful. Christa works well with her clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
Christa Carnahan is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1996. Christa is very good at starting where a client is. She thinks that she builds a rapport well. Christa has strong skills at goal setting and can help someone figure out what goals will fit best for them. She can assist someone in breaking these goals down into manageable steps to help them achieve each small goal to feel successful. Christa works well with her clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
(614) 654-3412 View (614) 654-3412
Photo of Angela Bolenbaugh, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Bolenbaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, OH 43143
Angela is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio, who has been practicing since 2024. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the Ohio State University and a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. Angela has several years of experience working with adults and adolescents in both Community Mental Health and School-Based settings. Her training includes Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, as well as, Motivational Interviewing.
Angela is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio, who has been practicing since 2024. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the Ohio State University and a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. Angela has several years of experience working with adults and adolescents in both Community Mental Health and School-Based settings. Her training includes Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, as well as, Motivational Interviewing.
(740) 480-3391 View (740) 480-3391
Photo of Stephanie Krznarich, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Krznarich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, OH 43143
Stephanie Krznarich is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1993. She has a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University and attended Bethany Theological Seminary where her focus was on Pastoral Care and Counseling as well as Chaplaincy. Stephanie brings more than 30 years of experience to the counseling relationship. Her focus has been working with individuals who have substance use disorders and/or mental health disorders, cognitive impairment, in addition to trauma survivors.
Stephanie Krznarich is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 1993. She has a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University and attended Bethany Theological Seminary where her focus was on Pastoral Care and Counseling as well as Chaplaincy. Stephanie brings more than 30 years of experience to the counseling relationship. Her focus has been working with individuals who have substance use disorders and/or mental health disorders, cognitive impairment, in addition to trauma survivors.
(614) 739-8096 View (614) 739-8096
Photo of Kara Leach, LPCC-S, CMHIMP
Kara Leach
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, OH 43143
Kara Leach is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2001. Kara provides individual therapy to women struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, postpartum anxiety/depression, life transitions, parenting struggles, relationship struggles, and perimenopause/menopause. Kara aims to meet her clients where they are in their current struggles and walk alongside them on their healing journey. She utilizes CBT, ACT, DBT, supportive therapy, and mindfulness.
Kara Leach is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2001. Kara provides individual therapy to women struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, postpartum anxiety/depression, life transitions, parenting struggles, relationship struggles, and perimenopause/menopause. Kara aims to meet her clients where they are in their current struggles and walk alongside them on their healing journey. She utilizes CBT, ACT, DBT, supportive therapy, and mindfulness.
(614) 666-6982 View (614) 666-6982
Photo of Julia Johnston, MA,  LPCC,  LICDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Julia Johnston
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPCC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, OH 43143
Julia Johnston, LPCC Julia Johnston is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She attended Ohio Northern University where she received her BA in Psychology. At ONU, Julia worked with her professor to conduct research on how trauma impacts learning and memory. She presented her research findings at the national level. Julia attended John Carroll University for her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in addiction. Throughout her life, Julia has always been fascinated by how the brain works and how it influences thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
Julia Johnston, LPCC Julia Johnston is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She attended Ohio Northern University where she received her BA in Psychology. At ONU, Julia worked with her professor to conduct research on how trauma impacts learning and memory. She presented her research findings at the national level. Julia attended John Carroll University for her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in addiction. Throughout her life, Julia has always been fascinated by how the brain works and how it influences thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
(614) 412-5692 View (614) 412-5692
Photo of Dominique Ater, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dominique Ater
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Mount Sterling, OH 43143
Dominique Ater is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. She gained experience working in community mental health settings focusing on co-occurring substance use and mental health issues focusing on behavior modification, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, ODD, and borderline personality disorder. Dominique has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. Dominique understands that asking a stranger for help can be difficult and scary.
Dominique Ater is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. She gained experience working in community mental health settings focusing on co-occurring substance use and mental health issues focusing on behavior modification, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, ODD, and borderline personality disorder. Dominique has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. Dominique understands that asking a stranger for help can be difficult and scary.
(614) 683-4813 View (614) 683-4813

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bailey Curnutte, LSW , CLC
Bailey Curnutte
LSW , CLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orient, OH 43146  (Online Only)
Bailey Curnutte is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Ohio and a certified Life Coach. Beginning the journey to self-healing and self-discovery through counseling can be scary, and Bailey believes in creating a supportive, empathetic environment that allows clients to begin this journey. She believes in taking a holistic approach and working with each client on an individual level, focusing on their specific needs, wants, and goals. Bailey specializes in treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, anger management, parenting, and relationship issues.
Bailey Curnutte is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Ohio and a certified Life Coach. Beginning the journey to self-healing and self-discovery through counseling can be scary, and Bailey believes in creating a supportive, empathetic environment that allows clients to begin this journey. She believes in taking a holistic approach and working with each client on an individual level, focusing on their specific needs, wants, and goals. Bailey specializes in treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem, anger management, parenting, and relationship issues.
(614) 470-2608 View (614) 470-2608

Online Therapists

Photo of Megan Donelan, MA, LPCC
Megan Donelan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
Megan doesn't believe clients need to "wait until something is wrong" to start therapy and supports clients in building their distress tolerance against everyday stressors. She prioritizes making clients feel comfortable, safe, and at ease during sessions and collaborates with the client for individualized treatment. She specializes in anxiety, attachment, trauma, and previously provided counseling in residential eating disorder treatment but provides support for a wide range of concerns. Many of her clients are new to therapy, and she enjoys making therapy a positive, effective experience.
Megan doesn't believe clients need to "wait until something is wrong" to start therapy and supports clients in building their distress tolerance against everyday stressors. She prioritizes making clients feel comfortable, safe, and at ease during sessions and collaborates with the client for individualized treatment. She specializes in anxiety, attachment, trauma, and previously provided counseling in residential eating disorder treatment but provides support for a wide range of concerns. Many of her clients are new to therapy, and she enjoys making therapy a positive, effective experience.
(614) 879-1970 View (614) 879-1970
Photo of Steve Cartell, LISW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Cartell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214  (Online Only)
As a strengths and solution focused therapist, I believe we each have the power to process our issues and find the key to unlock often untapped potential; taking care of one’s mental health is vital to living a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and men’s issues. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand the struggles many encounter and work to create a safe and welcoming space for all!
As a strengths and solution focused therapist, I believe we each have the power to process our issues and find the key to unlock often untapped potential; taking care of one’s mental health is vital to living a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and men’s issues. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand the struggles many encounter and work to create a safe and welcoming space for all!
(614) 796-4179 View (614) 796-4179
Photo of Meredith Lt Montgomery, EdD, LPCC-S, Counselor
Meredith Lt Montgomery
Counselor, EdD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45439
Waitlist for new clients
I work predominantly, but not exclusively, with male clients. I have been described as pragmatic (definition: "dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations" & "the study of how context contributes to meaning.") My approach in counseling is well captured in these descriptions. We will approach things sensibly and realistically, seeking understanding, clarity, & truth. We will explore language and context to gain insight, guide decision making, and heal old wounds. We will work as partners to identify growth areas, resolve issues, set goals, & affect change.
I work predominantly, but not exclusively, with male clients. I have been described as pragmatic (definition: "dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations" & "the study of how context contributes to meaning.") My approach in counseling is well captured in these descriptions. We will approach things sensibly and realistically, seeking understanding, clarity, & truth. We will explore language and context to gain insight, guide decision making, and heal old wounds. We will work as partners to identify growth areas, resolve issues, set goals, & affect change.
(937) 790-4636 View (937) 790-4636
Photo of Charlotte Wyrick, PC, Counselor
Charlotte Wyrick
Counselor, PC
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Charlotte Wyrick is a Licensed Counselor Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She received her undergraduate degree in Recreational Therapy from the University of Toledo and is currently completing a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Dayton. Prior to LifeStance, Charlotte has years of experience working as an adjunctive therapist at an inpatient psychiatric hospital. Charlotte's holistic approach to treatment is aimed at understanding and healing the mind, body, and spirit.
Charlotte Wyrick is a Licensed Counselor Trainee through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She received her undergraduate degree in Recreational Therapy from the University of Toledo and is currently completing a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Dayton. Prior to LifeStance, Charlotte has years of experience working as an adjunctive therapist at an inpatient psychiatric hospital. Charlotte's holistic approach to treatment is aimed at understanding and healing the mind, body, and spirit.
(740) 218-5079 View (740) 218-5079
Photo of Maria Wilson, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Centerville, OH 45459
I connect with clients who are potentially struggling to come to terms or identify some of their emotions or experiences, and want to begin to learn how to navigate that.
I connect with clients who are potentially struggling to come to terms or identify some of their emotions or experiences, and want to begin to learn how to navigate that.
(937) 954-2705 View (937) 954-2705
Photo of Dr. Kelly Conn, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Kelly Conn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Dr. Kelly Conn received her Doctor of Behavioral Health degree from Arizona State University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. She is educated and clinically trained in both mental and physical aspects of behavioral health. She has a diverse background working with children and adults. Extensive experience working with Military Veteran’s and First Responder’s with trauma related disorders, MST and PTSD.
Dr. Kelly Conn received her Doctor of Behavioral Health degree from Arizona State University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. She is educated and clinically trained in both mental and physical aspects of behavioral health. She has a diverse background working with children and adults. Extensive experience working with Military Veteran’s and First Responder’s with trauma related disorders, MST and PTSD.
(740) 279-3433 View (740) 279-3433
Photo of Jonathan Thorn, LPC, DBTC, EMDR t, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan Thorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, DBTC, EMDR t
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Jon is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has earned his Masters from Capella University with experience working in community mental health. He is EMDR trained, DBT certified, and is an autism spectrum disorder clinical specialist. He draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, somatic work, and mindfulness as well as motivational interviewing. Jon has walked with clients who struggle with all kinds of trauma, dissociation including DID, depression, anxiety, abuse, neglect, substance use, as well as dealing those in the criminal justice system. Jon works with children 13 years old and up, including adults. Focusing on trauma.
Jon is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has earned his Masters from Capella University with experience working in community mental health. He is EMDR trained, DBT certified, and is an autism spectrum disorder clinical specialist. He draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, somatic work, and mindfulness as well as motivational interviewing. Jon has walked with clients who struggle with all kinds of trauma, dissociation including DID, depression, anxiety, abuse, neglect, substance use, as well as dealing those in the criminal justice system. Jon works with children 13 years old and up, including adults. Focusing on trauma.
(380) 333-6350 View (380) 333-6350
Photo of Andre' R. Carpenter - Fokus 4Ward LLC (Counseling & Coaching), MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fokus 4Ward LLC (Counseling & Coaching)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springdale, OH 45246
Hello and welcome! My name is Andre' Carpenter. I help people by being a soundboard for them to bounce their thoughts and ideas off of. I help people who have goals, create and execute plans to achieve those goals. I help marriages that are either just beginning, hitting a bump in the road or downright falling apart. There are some of you who need a coach to help you get from point A to point B. Sometimes, people just need someone to talk to and I am here in that moment to just listen. Bottom line is I do my best to help people in whatever way I can, find their love, their peace, their happy!
Hello and welcome! My name is Andre' Carpenter. I help people by being a soundboard for them to bounce their thoughts and ideas off of. I help people who have goals, create and execute plans to achieve those goals. I help marriages that are either just beginning, hitting a bump in the road or downright falling apart. There are some of you who need a coach to help you get from point A to point B. Sometimes, people just need someone to talk to and I am here in that moment to just listen. Bottom line is I do my best to help people in whatever way I can, find their love, their peace, their happy!
(985) 313-9172 View (985) 313-9172
Photo of Megan Kochheiser, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Kochheiser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 6 years of experience partnering with youth, adolescent, and adult clients toward their personal goals. I truly believe that each and every person has immense value and strength, and I see it as an honor to come alongside you in your path toward mental and emotional wellness. Specific areas of concern that I have experience with include: general life stressors, grief/loss, anxiety, panic, depression, emotional dysregulation, school performance, trauma, and self-harm.
Hello! I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 6 years of experience partnering with youth, adolescent, and adult clients toward their personal goals. I truly believe that each and every person has immense value and strength, and I see it as an honor to come alongside you in your path toward mental and emotional wellness. Specific areas of concern that I have experience with include: general life stressors, grief/loss, anxiety, panic, depression, emotional dysregulation, school performance, trauma, and self-harm.
(614) 739-9990 View (614) 739-9990
Photo of Phillip Roberto, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phillip Roberto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45226
I work with adults experiencing difficulties with a variety of behaviors that are holding them back from the lives they seek. These include protective behaviors like anger, anxiety, depression; numbing behaviors (alcohol or substance abuse.); distractions (goal-fixation, promiscuity, exercise, and others), and more. I work to help bring clarity and build safe connections within families, relationships at work, and elsewhere. I work to guide safe processing of grief, loss and loneliness. Together, we focus on you and your needs for emotional health.
I work with adults experiencing difficulties with a variety of behaviors that are holding them back from the lives they seek. These include protective behaviors like anger, anxiety, depression; numbing behaviors (alcohol or substance abuse.); distractions (goal-fixation, promiscuity, exercise, and others), and more. I work to help bring clarity and build safe connections within families, relationships at work, and elsewhere. I work to guide safe processing of grief, loss and loneliness. Together, we focus on you and your needs for emotional health.
(513) 657-1912 View (513) 657-1912
Photo of Linda, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Linda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
In our first session, we will get to know each other and decide if we're a good fit. We will review your background and history as well as current struggles and symptoms.
In our first session, we will get to know each other and decide if we're a good fit. We will review your background and history as well as current struggles and symptoms.
(380) 205-2927 View (380) 205-2927
Photo of Lauren Mills-Ochs, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Mills-Ochs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Celina, OH 45822
I believe that healing is a process we all undertake in our own unique way. At its core, my responsibility as your counselor is to help guide you through that process and to illustrate the importance of holding space, validating and allowing you to fully feel, process and understand needs, traumas and emotions.
I believe that healing is a process we all undertake in our own unique way. At its core, my responsibility as your counselor is to help guide you through that process and to illustrate the importance of holding space, validating and allowing you to fully feel, process and understand needs, traumas and emotions.
(419) 584-5123 View (419) 584-5123

See more therapy options for Mount Sterling

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mount Sterling, OH

< 10

Therapists in Mount Sterling, OH who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
71% Grief
71% Trauma and PTSD
57% Veterans
57% Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
43% ADHD

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Humana

How Therapists in Mount Sterling, OH see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mount Sterling?

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.