Therapists in New Bern, NC

Photo of Brooklyn Davis, LCMHCA, LCAS
Brooklyn Davis
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCAS
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
Welcome! I'm Brooklyn, here to help guide you to navigate life's challenges and empower you to tap into your strengths for growth and healing. Having overcome my own adversities, I'm passionate about helping you realize your innate power and resilience. My genuine love for supporting others has always been a core part of who I am. I can offer guidance as you create the life you truly desire. We can work together to embrace your strengths and turn them into powerful tools for growth, ensuring you feel safe and supported every step of the way.
Welcome! I'm Brooklyn, here to help guide you to navigate life's challenges and empower you to tap into your strengths for growth and healing. Having overcome my own adversities, I'm passionate about helping you realize your innate power and resilience. My genuine love for supporting others has always been a core part of who I am. I can offer guidance as you create the life you truly desire. We can work together to embrace your strengths and turn them into powerful tools for growth, ensuring you feel safe and supported every step of the way.
(252) 410-3102 View (252) 410-3102
Photo of Tara Leigh Wynant, MA, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Tara Leigh Wynant
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
Hello, my name is Tara Wynant. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Master’s degree from Liberty University, I bring a wealth of experience in supporting diverse populations. My journey in the helping professions spans from early childhood education to ministry, equipping me with deep empathy and a practical understanding of the challenges individuals face My philosophy centers around creating a non-judgmental space where safety, comfort, and compassion are paramount, allowing clients to explore their feelings and navigate their struggles effectively.
Hello, my name is Tara Wynant. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Master’s degree from Liberty University, I bring a wealth of experience in supporting diverse populations. My journey in the helping professions spans from early childhood education to ministry, equipping me with deep empathy and a practical understanding of the challenges individuals face My philosophy centers around creating a non-judgmental space where safety, comfort, and compassion are paramount, allowing clients to explore their feelings and navigate their struggles effectively.
(252) 645-6426 View (252) 645-6426
Photo of Kathryn Tuttle MacMoran - MacMoran Counseling and Coaching, MS, LPC, BCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
MacMoran Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BCPC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
As a seasoned professional in the addiction treatment field, my 30 years of clinical experience covers a wide variety of issues that face individuals and their families. In collaboration with my clients, I provide an individually customized success plan. We face the issues of this life in a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where healing happens, hope is restored, and growth becomes the inevitable outcome.
As a seasoned professional in the addiction treatment field, my 30 years of clinical experience covers a wide variety of issues that face individuals and their families. In collaboration with my clients, I provide an individually customized success plan. We face the issues of this life in a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where healing happens, hope is restored, and growth becomes the inevitable outcome.
(252) 677-9976 View (252) 677-9976
Photo of Mary Ann Stewart, MA, LMFT, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Ann Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
My passion is working with couples because when this relationship is solid the family will thrive. I help my clients by teaching valuable communication skills, exploring the past to make more since out of the present and sharing the truth with love. I believe that my clients should work as hard as I do. So...role up your sleeves and let's get to work! Your family is worth it!
My passion is working with couples because when this relationship is solid the family will thrive. I help my clients by teaching valuable communication skills, exploring the past to make more since out of the present and sharing the truth with love. I believe that my clients should work as hard as I do. So...role up your sleeves and let's get to work! Your family is worth it!
(252) 303-2048 View (252) 303-2048
Photo of Angela Cobb Ellis, LCSW-A, MSW
Angela Cobb Ellis
LCSW Associate , LCSW-A, MSW
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
Navigating life and its challenges can be overwhelming. Many times, we feel that we must figure it out alone. You don't, I am here to help support you on your path of healing. I am here to offer services to empower and inspire clients to help them live their best life. I believe in creating a safe, secure, and nonjudgmental atmosphere. It is my goal to provide you with the emotional support needed.
Navigating life and its challenges can be overwhelming. Many times, we feel that we must figure it out alone. You don't, I am here to help support you on your path of healing. I am here to offer services to empower and inspire clients to help them live their best life. I believe in creating a safe, secure, and nonjudgmental atmosphere. It is my goal to provide you with the emotional support needed.
(252) 494-4701 View (252) 494-4701
Photo of Phallon Dayvault, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phallon Dayvault
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
Waitlist for new clients
Waitlist for new clients - I am a strengths-based therapist providing multiple treatment methods for my clients treating them with respect, acceptance, and understanding. I believe it is important to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients to ensure the best outcomes. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, especially children and teens.
Waitlist for new clients - I am a strengths-based therapist providing multiple treatment methods for my clients treating them with respect, acceptance, and understanding. I believe it is important to build a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients to ensure the best outcomes. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, especially children and teens.
(252) 592-6495 View (252) 592-6495
Photo of Lee Sousa, MS, LCMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lee Sousa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
Not accepting new clients
“In a dark place we find ourselves, and a little more knowledge lights our way” - Yoda. Serving both pediatric and adult populations, my approach to therapy is a person-centered experience, tailored to your goals for either yourself or your child. With almost a decade of experience working as a licensed professional, my goal to you is helping you feel empowered as you walk through your own mental wellness journey.
“In a dark place we find ourselves, and a little more knowledge lights our way” - Yoda. Serving both pediatric and adult populations, my approach to therapy is a person-centered experience, tailored to your goals for either yourself or your child. With almost a decade of experience working as a licensed professional, my goal to you is helping you feel empowered as you walk through your own mental wellness journey.
(252) 518-6553 View (252) 518-6553
Photo of Vicki Howe, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCTP, NCC, Counselor
Vicki Howe
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
We all arrive at turning points in life, a place in which we realize that our current path no longer suits our needs or reflects our values. Often, we develop ways of coping with life’s stressors and continue to use these outdated coping methods long after they have lost their purpose. Therapy is most effective when it addresses bio-psycho-social wellness in all areas. I will listen to your needs and desired outcomes to help you create your ideal plan for recovery and wellness.
We all arrive at turning points in life, a place in which we realize that our current path no longer suits our needs or reflects our values. Often, we develop ways of coping with life’s stressors and continue to use these outdated coping methods long after they have lost their purpose. Therapy is most effective when it addresses bio-psycho-social wellness in all areas. I will listen to your needs and desired outcomes to help you create your ideal plan for recovery and wellness.
(252) 300-0862 View (252) 300-0862
Photo of Alexandria Zegers, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria Zegers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
In my professional journey, I've dedicated myself to the field of mental health, recognizing its profound impact on individuals' overall well-being. I've had the privilege of working in diverse settings, including schools, a psychiatric hospital, and private practice. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the nuanced challenges people face and underscored the importance of tailored approaches to support their unique needs.
In my professional journey, I've dedicated myself to the field of mental health, recognizing its profound impact on individuals' overall well-being. I've had the privilege of working in diverse settings, including schools, a psychiatric hospital, and private practice. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the nuanced challenges people face and underscored the importance of tailored approaches to support their unique needs.
(252) 888-1378 View (252) 888-1378
Photo of Nina M DiFederico, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina M DiFederico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, I recognize the importance of providing genuine care and empathy to my clients. My role as a therapist is not just a job, but my calling and my passion. I'm committed to helping people overcome their challenges and live their best lives, and take great pride in being a part of that journey. I have great background in working with young children through adults. We are allowed to get angry, it is just about HOW we handle/express that anger. I thrive on helping my clients and building their coping skills and strengths for dealing with all and any stressors in life.
As a therapist, I recognize the importance of providing genuine care and empathy to my clients. My role as a therapist is not just a job, but my calling and my passion. I'm committed to helping people overcome their challenges and live their best lives, and take great pride in being a part of that journey. I have great background in working with young children through adults. We are allowed to get angry, it is just about HOW we handle/express that anger. I thrive on helping my clients and building their coping skills and strengths for dealing with all and any stressors in life.
(252) 460-2066 View (252) 460-2066
Photo of Kenneth W. Palmer, MSW, LCSW, PGTC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenneth W. Palmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PGTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
EMDR International Approved Consultant. We all have difficult or negative experiences that occur in our lives. I would love to help you process and get past these experiences to ensure they do not continue to affect your life or the relationships you value most. I also specialize in providing trauma treatment to military personnel, veterans, first responders and victims of physical/sexual assault. I was active-duty military for 15 years and deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and Italy. I have been a volunteer firefighter here for over 10 years as well.
EMDR International Approved Consultant. We all have difficult or negative experiences that occur in our lives. I would love to help you process and get past these experiences to ensure they do not continue to affect your life or the relationships you value most. I also specialize in providing trauma treatment to military personnel, veterans, first responders and victims of physical/sexual assault. I was active-duty military for 15 years and deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and Italy. I have been a volunteer firefighter here for over 10 years as well.
(252) 297-6376 View (252) 297-6376
Photo of Samantha Beatrice Thall, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Beatrice Thall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
If you're reading this, I know you've reached the point where you have exhausted every option to manage your issues on your own. I've been there and I know what it's like to feel like stuck or like nothing can help. I also know what it's like to feel like even therapy won't help. But if you are reading this, I know you still have hope. I love working with teenagers and adults to help them see their own strength and resilience in order to identify, problem-solve, and overcome their challenges.
If you're reading this, I know you've reached the point where you have exhausted every option to manage your issues on your own. I've been there and I know what it's like to feel like stuck or like nothing can help. I also know what it's like to feel like even therapy won't help. But if you are reading this, I know you still have hope. I love working with teenagers and adults to help them see their own strength and resilience in order to identify, problem-solve, and overcome their challenges.
(252) 501-6700 View (252) 501-6700
Photo of Michele Ruhmann, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Michele Ruhmann
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals incorporating parts work (IFS-informed), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you are, we will work together to create a tailored therapy experience to meet your goals incorporating parts work (IFS-informed), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), somatic bodywork, and traditional talk therapy.
(252) 379-5081 View (252) 379-5081
Photo of Olayinka Dykes, LCMHC
Olayinka Dykes
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
Seeking support can be difficult, especially when it's most needed. Many struggle with self-doubt or an overly critical inner voice. With 8 years of experience as a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma, my focus is your well-being. Life's transitions and significant challenges can feel overwhelming, but reaching out is crucial for personal growth. I provide a safe, supportive space for healing, using evidence-based approaches like dialectical behavior therapy, person-centered therapy, and tailored interventions to guide your journey toward emotional health and resilience.
Seeking support can be difficult, especially when it's most needed. Many struggle with self-doubt or an overly critical inner voice. With 8 years of experience as a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma, my focus is your well-being. Life's transitions and significant challenges can feel overwhelming, but reaching out is crucial for personal growth. I provide a safe, supportive space for healing, using evidence-based approaches like dialectical behavior therapy, person-centered therapy, and tailored interventions to guide your journey toward emotional health and resilience.
(252) 390-2779 View (252) 390-2779
Photo of Stacy T. Connor - Butterfly Wishes Therapy PLLC (Stacy Connor LCSW), LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Butterfly Wishes Therapy PLLC (Stacy Connor LCSW)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560  (Online Only)
Stacy Connor; Executive/Clinical Director employs 6 clinicians, ready to serve you; days, evenings & weekends. This is Stacy's profile: Everyone should know what it's like to feel Lovable, Capable, and Worthwhile. Instead of narrowing in on individual problems, psychotherapy considers overall patterns, chronic issues, and recurrent feelings. This requires an openness to exploring the past and its impact on the present. Psychotherapy resolves the underlying issues which fuel ongoing complaint/distress. I will work to get you on your way to wellness. Serving all of NC. I also offer clinical supervision for LCSW-A & LCAS-A & CSI.
Stacy Connor; Executive/Clinical Director employs 6 clinicians, ready to serve you; days, evenings & weekends. This is Stacy's profile: Everyone should know what it's like to feel Lovable, Capable, and Worthwhile. Instead of narrowing in on individual problems, psychotherapy considers overall patterns, chronic issues, and recurrent feelings. This requires an openness to exploring the past and its impact on the present. Psychotherapy resolves the underlying issues which fuel ongoing complaint/distress. I will work to get you on your way to wellness. Serving all of NC. I also offer clinical supervision for LCSW-A & LCAS-A & CSI.
(252) 229-9665 View (252) 229-9665
Photo of Teresa Vaughan, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
(252) 689-7203 View (252) 689-7203
Photo of Andrea Nicole Barnett, LCMHCA, Counselor
Andrea Nicole Barnett
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I attended and graduated from Liberty University where I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I concentrated in Christian Studies while at ECU as well as Liberty. I have worked with clients of different ages, races, religions, and genders. I have also worked with clients who have a variety of diagnoses, which includes but is not limited to anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma etc.
I attended and graduated from Liberty University where I earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I concentrated in Christian Studies while at ECU as well as Liberty. I have worked with clients of different ages, races, religions, and genders. I have also worked with clients who have a variety of diagnoses, which includes but is not limited to anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma etc.
(252) 421-5755 View (252) 421-5755
Photo of Cynthia Lewis Gaskins - Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC , LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC, Counselor
Roots to Blooms Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCS , LCAS, CCS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562  (Online Only)
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
I HAVE OPENINGS FOR NEW CLIENTS!! Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel trapped by your strong emotional reactions? Are you feeling alone and disconnected in your relationship? Anxious or not good enough? We all have moments in our lives when we need support, and we are not meant to suffer alone. There is no shame in reaching out for help. I help clients work through current struggles & emotional pain by so they can experience calm, self-compassion, freedom and meaning in their lives.
(252) 336-9687 View (252) 336-9687
Photo of Casey Richardson, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28560
My goal is to offer you compassion, acceptance and unconditional positive regard. I strive to create an environment that is safe and non-judgmental in order to build a strong therapeutic alliance. I believe this is key for successful therapy. I use a blend of interventions to help you identify your personal strengths, gain insight and awareness of thoughts and emotions, and heal from previous life experiences. Collaboratively, we will work toward setting goals and identifying realistic solutions to support positive change in your life.
My goal is to offer you compassion, acceptance and unconditional positive regard. I strive to create an environment that is safe and non-judgmental in order to build a strong therapeutic alliance. I believe this is key for successful therapy. I use a blend of interventions to help you identify your personal strengths, gain insight and awareness of thoughts and emotions, and heal from previous life experiences. Collaboratively, we will work toward setting goals and identifying realistic solutions to support positive change in your life.
(252) 595-5417 View (252) 595-5417
Photo of Tracye Taylor, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracye Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
01/04/2024 - Now accepting new clients! Limited openings for Saturday morning appointments. You're worried about your teenager or young adult. They seem stressed out and are struggling to do the things that used to do easily. Maybe they are acting out with friends or family, or worse yet - isolating from everyone. Life happens! We go through things in life, some things we have control over and some we don’t. Let’s work together to assist you with navigating through this thing called Life. I am passionate about providing you with a safe and secure place to discuss your thoughts, feelings and/or behaviors. Things can get better!
01/04/2024 - Now accepting new clients! Limited openings for Saturday morning appointments. You're worried about your teenager or young adult. They seem stressed out and are struggling to do the things that used to do easily. Maybe they are acting out with friends or family, or worse yet - isolating from everyone. Life happens! We go through things in life, some things we have control over and some we don’t. Let’s work together to assist you with navigating through this thing called Life. I am passionate about providing you with a safe and secure place to discuss your thoughts, feelings and/or behaviors. Things can get better!
(252) 651-4769 View (252) 651-4769
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New Bern, NC

100+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in New Bern, NC who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
75% Coping Skills
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Stress
72% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Aetna
71% MedCost

How Therapists in New Bern, NC see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in New Bern?

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.