Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Maya Elasady, MSW , CSWA
Maya Elasady
MSW , CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The willingness to seek support is a courageous step in acknowledging the strength of our vulnerability. Humans were meant to heal together. It is in relation with one another that we discover the necessary connection and compassion to heal past wounds and navigate the challenging circumstances of an unjust society. Unfortunately many of us are also hurt in relationships and struggle to feel safe with others or even know what safety looks like. Therefore, in our sessions we will work together to build a safe and compassionate environment where we can feel heard and seen as we move through our pain accompanied by another.
The willingness to seek support is a courageous step in acknowledging the strength of our vulnerability. Humans were meant to heal together. It is in relation with one another that we discover the necessary connection and compassion to heal past wounds and navigate the challenging circumstances of an unjust society. Unfortunately many of us are also hurt in relationships and struggle to feel safe with others or even know what safety looks like. Therefore, in our sessions we will work together to build a safe and compassionate environment where we can feel heard and seen as we move through our pain accompanied by another.
(971) 231-3149 View (971) 231-3149
Photo of Jean K Shirkoff, LCSW, MSW, BCD, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean K Shirkoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BCD, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
I believe it is important for all people to know solidly within themselves that they have value and to feel successful in their relationships. I have over twenty years of experience helping people. My orientation is attachment based and I work with individuals, couples and families.
I believe it is important for all people to know solidly within themselves that they have value and to feel successful in their relationships. I have over twenty years of experience helping people. My orientation is attachment based and I work with individuals, couples and families.
(503) 610-2025 View (503) 610-2025
Photo of Bridget Lovejoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Lovejoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
I find it a privilege to work with adult clients with a variety of issues (anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and trauma) but I am especially interested in older couples. I have experience in gerontology and have been a couples therapist since 2003. My approach with couples is eclectic but includes the work of John Gottman, David Burns, Prepare/Enrich, DBT, and Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (aka The Work of Byron Katie). And with individuals I do EMDR and other modalities. My background orientation is firmly rooted in Gestalt Therapy. Sometimes therapy with me is brief and other times we dive deep depending on your needs.
I find it a privilege to work with adult clients with a variety of issues (anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and trauma) but I am especially interested in older couples. I have experience in gerontology and have been a couples therapist since 2003. My approach with couples is eclectic but includes the work of John Gottman, David Burns, Prepare/Enrich, DBT, and Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (aka The Work of Byron Katie). And with individuals I do EMDR and other modalities. My background orientation is firmly rooted in Gestalt Therapy. Sometimes therapy with me is brief and other times we dive deep depending on your needs.
(503) 461-7245 View (503) 461-7245
Photo of Daniel James O'Connell, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel James O'Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
We can sometimes find ourselves journeying through difficult and uncertain times; believing ourselves to be lost and without a clear direction - therapy offers an opportunity to gain tools for that journey with someone who will believe in your potential for change, and help you to witness your narrative through a more objective and empowered lens. A therapist is a mirror, enabling you to see the totality of your being, and all that has contributed to your existence - together we find ways to rearrange, change and rejoin your life.
We can sometimes find ourselves journeying through difficult and uncertain times; believing ourselves to be lost and without a clear direction - therapy offers an opportunity to gain tools for that journey with someone who will believe in your potential for change, and help you to witness your narrative through a more objective and empowered lens. A therapist is a mirror, enabling you to see the totality of your being, and all that has contributed to your existence - together we find ways to rearrange, change and rejoin your life.
(760) 422-3309 View (760) 422-3309
Photo of Heidi Swartzmiller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heidi Swartzmiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
(503) 966-8786 View (503) 966-8786
Photo of Madison Thomas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Madison Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Not accepting new clients
I see our work together as a team that balances putting in the hard work while understanding you have to have some laughs along the way! Above all modalities, the therapeutic relationship is what I value most in our work together. I primarily use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Art Therapy. Despite my degree in art therapy, my dual license allows me to provide more traditional talk therapy, too.
I see our work together as a team that balances putting in the hard work while understanding you have to have some laughs along the way! Above all modalities, the therapeutic relationship is what I value most in our work together. I primarily use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Art Therapy. Despite my degree in art therapy, my dual license allows me to provide more traditional talk therapy, too.
(503) 563-2503 View (503) 563-2503
Photo of Karim Dabliz, MS, LPC Intern
Karim Dabliz
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Professional Counseling Associate located in Portland, Oregon. I help individuals heal their trauma, increase awareness and work toward cultivating meaningful connections in their most important relationships. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I believe in understanding the parts of yourself that make you who you are, rather than removing them. I specialize in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds. I am also experienced in helping self esteem, navigating body image, and working on the importance of boundaries.
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Professional Counseling Associate located in Portland, Oregon. I help individuals heal their trauma, increase awareness and work toward cultivating meaningful connections in their most important relationships. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I believe in understanding the parts of yourself that make you who you are, rather than removing them. I specialize in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds. I am also experienced in helping self esteem, navigating body image, and working on the importance of boundaries.
(971) 571-5721 View (971) 571-5721
Photo of Sean Donahue, MA, LPC, CGP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sean Donahue
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CGP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I pull largely from my experiences with Buddhist Meditation and Psychodynamic Therapy. I typically begin by helping people with anxiety, depression and/or compulsive behaviors. As these begin to improve, some people want to move further into unconscious material related to attachment, trauma and shadow work. I also lead psychotherapy groups for those wanting to engage in emotional work with other growth-minded individuals (See below).
I pull largely from my experiences with Buddhist Meditation and Psychodynamic Therapy. I typically begin by helping people with anxiety, depression and/or compulsive behaviors. As these begin to improve, some people want to move further into unconscious material related to attachment, trauma and shadow work. I also lead psychotherapy groups for those wanting to engage in emotional work with other growth-minded individuals (See below).
(503) 897-9843 View (503) 897-9843
Photo of Tricia O'Connor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tricia O'Connor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
Tricia O’Connor is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has over a decade of clinical experience including residential, community, and private practice settings. Tricia specializes in providing therapy to individuals experiencing adjustment/life transition, depression, anxiety, stress management, religious/spiritual issues, and loss.
Tricia O’Connor is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has over a decade of clinical experience including residential, community, and private practice settings. Tricia specializes in providing therapy to individuals experiencing adjustment/life transition, depression, anxiety, stress management, religious/spiritual issues, and loss.
(971) 599-2618 View (971) 599-2618
Photo of Casey Campbell, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience helping people change. Change can be scary, challenging, exhilarating, and fulfilling. I help facilitate change by developing a close therapeutic relationship with clients and by utilizing evidence based therapies, and my well developed intuition to identify the source of your problem and the best pathway forward. I specialize in treating motivational difficulties, depression, anxiety, and self defeating behaviors. I also help with existential issues, such as finding meaning, discovering passions, and developing and sustaining close relationships.
I have over 10 years of experience helping people change. Change can be scary, challenging, exhilarating, and fulfilling. I help facilitate change by developing a close therapeutic relationship with clients and by utilizing evidence based therapies, and my well developed intuition to identify the source of your problem and the best pathway forward. I specialize in treating motivational difficulties, depression, anxiety, and self defeating behaviors. I also help with existential issues, such as finding meaning, discovering passions, and developing and sustaining close relationships.
(503) 405-4434 View (503) 405-4434
Photo of Annie 'jiahui' Chen
Annie 'jiahui' Chen
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Are you seeking a POC clinician, someone with lived experience as a first-generational immigrant, or as an international student? Do you need support with family issues or a partner, cultural support, or support for mental health in a culture where stigma exists? I can help you with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, trauma, issues related to cultural adaptation, relationship issues, boundary setting, procrastination, life transitions and self worth. I also speak fluent Cantonese and Mandarin. Its never easy to walk alone in distress, feeling lost and helpless. Together, lets create a safe space for you to heal.
Are you seeking a POC clinician, someone with lived experience as a first-generational immigrant, or as an international student? Do you need support with family issues or a partner, cultural support, or support for mental health in a culture where stigma exists? I can help you with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, trauma, issues related to cultural adaptation, relationship issues, boundary setting, procrastination, life transitions and self worth. I also speak fluent Cantonese and Mandarin. Its never easy to walk alone in distress, feeling lost and helpless. Together, lets create a safe space for you to heal.
(503) 994-1469 View (503) 994-1469
Photo of Laura Baker Sander, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Baker Sander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I am an LCSW and I work adults and adolescents aged 16+ for individual therapy. I frequently work with clients to address issues including anxiety, trauma, depression, negative self-talk, chronic pain/illness and coping with life stressors. As your therapist, I aim to help you create and find the support you need to tap into internal and external resources to resolve problems and to increase your capacity to experience life more fully, to grow, to become increasingly healthy and more whole. I aim to create an environment that invites mutual respect, acceptance, curiosity, and hope.
Welcome! I am an LCSW and I work adults and adolescents aged 16+ for individual therapy. I frequently work with clients to address issues including anxiety, trauma, depression, negative self-talk, chronic pain/illness and coping with life stressors. As your therapist, I aim to help you create and find the support you need to tap into internal and external resources to resolve problems and to increase your capacity to experience life more fully, to grow, to become increasingly healthy and more whole. I aim to create an environment that invites mutual respect, acceptance, curiosity, and hope.
(971) 599-2567 View (971) 599-2567
Photo of Peggy Hickey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peggy Hickey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I want to empower you to navigate life's challenges! My practice is based on the belief that life brings us many challenges and at times we can get stuck. Feeling stuck can cause us to feel uncomfortable symptoms - anxiety, depression, anger, etc. I believe that therapy is a process where you can gain tools to address those challenges, determine what needs to be changed, work towards making those changes while navigating all the thoughts, feelings and emotions that may come up in the process. I strive to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where clients can work towards living a value-driven, meaningful life.
I want to empower you to navigate life's challenges! My practice is based on the belief that life brings us many challenges and at times we can get stuck. Feeling stuck can cause us to feel uncomfortable symptoms - anxiety, depression, anger, etc. I believe that therapy is a process where you can gain tools to address those challenges, determine what needs to be changed, work towards making those changes while navigating all the thoughts, feelings and emotions that may come up in the process. I strive to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where clients can work towards living a value-driven, meaningful life.
(503) 994-5650 View (503) 994-5650
Photo of Lauren Hoffman, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Hoffman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97216
My values as a therapist are to provide non-judgmental, empathic, and culturally informed care, while emphasizing an environment founded on personal growth, openness, and honesty. I use a multi-faceted approach to therapy to best fit the unique needs of each client because I recognize one size does not fit all. I often work from a psychodynamic-relational stance, using the client-therapist relationship as a tool to increase my client’s awareness of interactions between self, others, and the world to improve decision-making and enhance life satisfaction.
My values as a therapist are to provide non-judgmental, empathic, and culturally informed care, while emphasizing an environment founded on personal growth, openness, and honesty. I use a multi-faceted approach to therapy to best fit the unique needs of each client because I recognize one size does not fit all. I often work from a psychodynamic-relational stance, using the client-therapist relationship as a tool to increase my client’s awareness of interactions between self, others, and the world to improve decision-making and enhance life satisfaction.
(503) 966-2587 View (503) 966-2587
Photo of Priscilla Klockner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Priscilla Klockner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy to assist children and families from birth through the teen who struggle with issues related to behavior problems, academic problems, developmental delays, ASD and attachment.
I utilize Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy to assist children and families from birth through the teen who struggle with issues related to behavior problems, academic problems, developmental delays, ASD and attachment.
(503) 342-7494 View (503) 342-7494
Photo of Laurie Crandall, LMFT, LPC, NBCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laurie Crandall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
I offer professional therapy to support people and families in creating the change and movement they hope for in their lives. People often struggle with life challenges, relationships, unhelpful patterns of behavior, or feeling stuck and unable to make the changes that they want. I believe it is possible to move forward in a fulfilling and healthy way through support, empathy, exploration and collaborative challenge. I specialize in working with: teenager and parent relationships; couples challenges; trauma/stress reactivity; anxiety, attachment issues, depression and mood disorders; life transitions, personality difficulties, and lifestyle/health and wellness.
I offer professional therapy to support people and families in creating the change and movement they hope for in their lives. People often struggle with life challenges, relationships, unhelpful patterns of behavior, or feeling stuck and unable to make the changes that they want. I believe it is possible to move forward in a fulfilling and healthy way through support, empathy, exploration and collaborative challenge. I specialize in working with: teenager and parent relationships; couples challenges; trauma/stress reactivity; anxiety, attachment issues, depression and mood disorders; life transitions, personality difficulties, and lifestyle/health and wellness.
(503) 536-1231 View (503) 536-1231
Photo of Sarah Hart, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Not accepting new clients
Being human has plenty of struggles and challenges! You don't have to be so alone. We all need positive support and reliable reflections from other people. Therapy can provide that support. Maybe you are feeling that your life and relationships are not satisfying. I believe people do the best they can but sometimes get stuck in patterns that keep them from moving toward the things they want and need. If you struggle with depression or anxiety, wish for more satisfying relationships, struggle with loneliness or the lifelong impact of trauma, I provide clear minded, empathetic and relational support.
Being human has plenty of struggles and challenges! You don't have to be so alone. We all need positive support and reliable reflections from other people. Therapy can provide that support. Maybe you are feeling that your life and relationships are not satisfying. I believe people do the best they can but sometimes get stuck in patterns that keep them from moving toward the things they want and need. If you struggle with depression or anxiety, wish for more satisfying relationships, struggle with loneliness or the lifelong impact of trauma, I provide clear minded, empathetic and relational support.
(971) 252-7005 View (971) 252-7005
Photo of Latisha Brown, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Latisha Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I’m Latisha! I am a licensed professional counselor based in Oregon dedicated to helping individuals regain balance and clarity in their lives through education, counseling, and skills training. I earned my masters degree in community counseling (winter of 2010) to help gather tools and increase insight on mental health issues, so that I can help individuals cultivate self-care, increase their self-efficacy, and sustain their overall mental well-being. I have 13+ years experience working with clients with various issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, racial fatigue, and trauma.
Hello, I’m Latisha! I am a licensed professional counselor based in Oregon dedicated to helping individuals regain balance and clarity in their lives through education, counseling, and skills training. I earned my masters degree in community counseling (winter of 2010) to help gather tools and increase insight on mental health issues, so that I can help individuals cultivate self-care, increase their self-efficacy, and sustain their overall mental well-being. I have 13+ years experience working with clients with various issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, racial fatigue, and trauma.
(503) 664-7853 View (503) 664-7853
Photo of Pepita L Payne, PsyD, Psychologist
Pepita L Payne
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
People come to therapy for many different reasons. Perhaps you wish to know yourself better or to understand what is happening in your relationships. Sometimes depression or anxiety become unmanageable. Emotional pain and suffering are normal aspects of life but it is possible to achieve a more balanced and resilient emotional state and more fulfilling relationships.
People come to therapy for many different reasons. Perhaps you wish to know yourself better or to understand what is happening in your relationships. Sometimes depression or anxiety become unmanageable. Emotional pain and suffering are normal aspects of life but it is possible to achieve a more balanced and resilient emotional state and more fulfilling relationships.
(971) 351-3392 View (971) 351-3392
Photo of Michelle Desai, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Desai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
As human beings, we all have a deep need for connection. This connection is often challenged and disrupted by experiences throughout our lives. Consequently, we all experience some level of disconnection. This experience of disconnection can lead to anxiety, inadequate coping skills, depression, poor emotional regulation, substance use, and many other dis-eases. The good news is that we all have the potential to reconnect with our authentic self and heal. My approach to therapy and healing involves reconnection with our true selves, our body, and the present moment through compassionate listening, non-judgement and curiosity.
As human beings, we all have a deep need for connection. This connection is often challenged and disrupted by experiences throughout our lives. Consequently, we all experience some level of disconnection. This experience of disconnection can lead to anxiety, inadequate coping skills, depression, poor emotional regulation, substance use, and many other dis-eases. The good news is that we all have the potential to reconnect with our authentic self and heal. My approach to therapy and healing involves reconnection with our true selves, our body, and the present moment through compassionate listening, non-judgement and curiosity.
(971) 393-8064 View (971) 393-8064

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

53% PacificSource
47% Aetna
37% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.