Therapists in Knoxville, TN

View neighborhoods in Knoxville
Photo of W. Allen Burt - W. Allen Burt, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
W. Allen Burt, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Psychotherapy is a process leading to the recognition of one's true self. As difficulties begin to "make sense," how to tackle personal problems becomes clearer. No one's depression, relationships, anxiety, or self-esteem difficulties are exactly like anyone else's. That is why understanding one’s unique life is more helpful than a diagnosis. Current problems are often influenced by past experiences which can then become generalized assumptions about life and others. It is important to separate assumptions from the truth. Good therapy results in personal understanding, but more importantly, a greater sense of being alive.
Psychotherapy is a process leading to the recognition of one's true self. As difficulties begin to "make sense," how to tackle personal problems becomes clearer. No one's depression, relationships, anxiety, or self-esteem difficulties are exactly like anyone else's. That is why understanding one’s unique life is more helpful than a diagnosis. Current problems are often influenced by past experiences which can then become generalized assumptions about life and others. It is important to separate assumptions from the truth. Good therapy results in personal understanding, but more importantly, a greater sense of being alive.
(865) 213-7642 View (865) 213-7642
Photo of Thomas Langer, LMSW
Thomas Langer
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Thomas seeks to provide a deeply accepting and non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to explore their thoughts and behaviors as they begin the journey to transform their lives and relationships. He works with his clients to help them define their challenges and create simple objectives on their path toward achieving their mental health goals. Thomas utilizes a holistic and integrative approach, based on each client’s needs, helping them explore all facets of their life and environment as a means to understand and address areas of struggle. His compassionate approach offers an inclusive and comfortable setting.
Thomas seeks to provide a deeply accepting and non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to explore their thoughts and behaviors as they begin the journey to transform their lives and relationships. He works with his clients to help them define their challenges and create simple objectives on their path toward achieving their mental health goals. Thomas utilizes a holistic and integrative approach, based on each client’s needs, helping them explore all facets of their life and environment as a means to understand and address areas of struggle. His compassionate approach offers an inclusive and comfortable setting.
(865) 503-4695 View (865) 503-4695
Photo of Shana V Hamilton-Lockwood, PhD, Psychologist
Shana V Hamilton-Lockwood
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37921  (Online Only)
I strive to provide a safe space for all clients to explore the issues bringing them to therapy and what underlies those issues. As a multicultural/relational therapist identities that are important to you provide a background for therapy (race, religion, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, political affiliations, gender identity, gender, sex, ableness, etc.) as those identities make up who you are. Relationships and how you relate with others are also important. I treat anxiety, depression, grief/loss, phases of life issues, family issues, women's issues and men's issues. I am also a sex and gender specialist.
I strive to provide a safe space for all clients to explore the issues bringing them to therapy and what underlies those issues. As a multicultural/relational therapist identities that are important to you provide a background for therapy (race, religion, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, political affiliations, gender identity, gender, sex, ableness, etc.) as those identities make up who you are. Relationships and how you relate with others are also important. I treat anxiety, depression, grief/loss, phases of life issues, family issues, women's issues and men's issues. I am also a sex and gender specialist.
(865) 503-6256 View (865) 503-6256
Photo of Tim Sutherland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Sutherland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
The decision to begin counseling or therapy is a very important, very personal step. My first priority is to relate to each person, couple or family as unique. Everyone has strengths & positive qualities that can be drawn on to help make therapy a positive, enriching, and productive experience. Let's work together so you can live your best life. No matter where you've been or what you've been through or how much money you have or don't have, there's ALWAYS hope! You can get an appointment within the next 7 days. Finances should never stand between you & getting really good counseling or coaching.
The decision to begin counseling or therapy is a very important, very personal step. My first priority is to relate to each person, couple or family as unique. Everyone has strengths & positive qualities that can be drawn on to help make therapy a positive, enriching, and productive experience. Let's work together so you can live your best life. No matter where you've been or what you've been through or how much money you have or don't have, there's ALWAYS hope! You can get an appointment within the next 7 days. Finances should never stand between you & getting really good counseling or coaching.
(865) 285-7339 View (865) 285-7339
Photo of Haven Counseling Center - Haven Counseling Center, LPC, MHSP, LMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Haven Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
We are a family-focused counseling clinic in Knoxville, Tennessee, with telehealth availability throughout Tennessee. Haven is a practice that desires to meet the mental health and relational needs of our community, with a particular focus on serving those looking for faith-sensitive services, where belief can be openly integrated into the therapeutic process as clients may desire. We desire to offer a positive and inviting place for adults, children, adolescents, and whole families to receive highly professional support in their emotional and behavioral needs.
We are a family-focused counseling clinic in Knoxville, Tennessee, with telehealth availability throughout Tennessee. Haven is a practice that desires to meet the mental health and relational needs of our community, with a particular focus on serving those looking for faith-sensitive services, where belief can be openly integrated into the therapeutic process as clients may desire. We desire to offer a positive and inviting place for adults, children, adolescents, and whole families to receive highly professional support in their emotional and behavioral needs.
(865) 344-2355 View (865) 344-2355
Photo of Katie Black, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I am a fully licensed professional counselor with 7 years of therapy experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their personal journeys. I see patients aged 8 and up with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and struggling with their walk in faith. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to understand your unique challenges and develop personalized strategies for overcoming them. I am accepting new patients via virtual/telehealth services through a HIPAA-compliant video conference.
I am a fully licensed professional counselor with 7 years of therapy experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate their personal journeys. I see patients aged 8 and up with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, and struggling with their walk in faith. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to understand your unique challenges and develop personalized strategies for overcoming them. I am accepting new patients via virtual/telehealth services through a HIPAA-compliant video conference.
(865) 761-2797 View (865) 761-2797
Photo of Amy L Dilworth, MS, LPC, MHSP, AS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy L Dilworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, AS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921
I serve individuals who have encountered trauma in their lives. They typically struggle with getting easily triggered and being in fight, flight or freeze mode a lot of the time. It often feels like anxiety so many of my clients come in saying they suffer with anxiety. Many of my clients also struggle with making decisions.
I serve individuals who have encountered trauma in their lives. They typically struggle with getting easily triggered and being in fight, flight or freeze mode a lot of the time. It often feels like anxiety so many of my clients come in saying they suffer with anxiety. Many of my clients also struggle with making decisions.
(865) 346-6015 View (865) 346-6015
Photo of Dr. Laura S Wheat, LPCMHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Laura S Wheat
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Hello! I’m Laura. Being human is so complicated, isn't it? Such an intensely personal and sometimes isolating experience, and often so very messy. And just when you think you've figured it out - the universe laughs. Every human needs a little help sometimes (even if we hate admitting it). As a therapist, I am privileged to sit with you in the eye of whatever storm you're navigating and helping you get through it stronger.
Hello! I’m Laura. Being human is so complicated, isn't it? Such an intensely personal and sometimes isolating experience, and often so very messy. And just when you think you've figured it out - the universe laughs. Every human needs a little help sometimes (even if we hate admitting it). As a therapist, I am privileged to sit with you in the eye of whatever storm you're navigating and helping you get through it stronger.
(865) 345-4178 View (865) 345-4178
Photo of Angela Masini, PhD, Psychologist
Angela Masini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Do you find yourself in internal arguments with your inner critic or feel so pressured by should’s that being stressed has become the norm? Do you miss your former, more alive self or notice that feelings you had hoped were resolved continue to generate painful memories? Are you struggling with unwanted behaviors - irritable outbursts, addictions, or indecisiveness? Or missing intimacy and positive communication with your spouse or partner? Though there is no "typical client", resolving these concerns or decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, are frequent reasons reported by my clients when they come to therapy.
Do you find yourself in internal arguments with your inner critic or feel so pressured by should’s that being stressed has become the norm? Do you miss your former, more alive self or notice that feelings you had hoped were resolved continue to generate painful memories? Are you struggling with unwanted behaviors - irritable outbursts, addictions, or indecisiveness? Or missing intimacy and positive communication with your spouse or partner? Though there is no "typical client", resolving these concerns or decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, are frequent reasons reported by my clients when they come to therapy.
(865) 217-0514 View (865) 217-0514
Photo of Jamie Harvey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Jamie Harvey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. Jamie utilizes Cognitive Behavioral therapy and other evidence based therapeutic interventions in order to assist the client in processing the challenges that they have faced in their life. She offers a judgement free space to allow clients to heal and continue their journey. Outside of work, Jamie enjoys attending car shows, crafting, and spending time with her family. She loves to read, especially thriller/crimebased books.
Jamie Harvey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. Jamie utilizes Cognitive Behavioral therapy and other evidence based therapeutic interventions in order to assist the client in processing the challenges that they have faced in their life. She offers a judgement free space to allow clients to heal and continue their journey. Outside of work, Jamie enjoys attending car shows, crafting, and spending time with her family. She loves to read, especially thriller/crimebased books.
(865) 328-1625 View (865) 328-1625
Photo of Penny R. Lukin, PhD, Psychologist
Penny R. Lukin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
I have been in professional psychological practice since 1979, been married many years, raised 2 children and shared in raising 3 step-children, so I have many years of clinical and personal experience on which to draw. However, I am always learning and growing, and enjoy sharing the journey of self-discovery with my clients/patients. I tailor my psychological treatment with individuals (adults, adolescents, and children), couples, and families to each person's unique situation. I utilize a variety of different treatment approaches, depending on the problems presented, ranging from cognitive-behavioral, insight, family systems, to supportive reality therapy.
I have been in professional psychological practice since 1979, been married many years, raised 2 children and shared in raising 3 step-children, so I have many years of clinical and personal experience on which to draw. However, I am always learning and growing, and enjoy sharing the journey of self-discovery with my clients/patients. I tailor my psychological treatment with individuals (adults, adolescents, and children), couples, and families to each person's unique situation. I utilize a variety of different treatment approaches, depending on the problems presented, ranging from cognitive-behavioral, insight, family systems, to supportive reality therapy.
(865) 671-0780 View (865) 671-0780
Photo of Jessica Collins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
The decision to start therapy can be an intimidating one. It is my job to make that a little easier. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, and strive to create a safe, welcoming environment for anyone I meet. I incorporate multiple approaches, and bring more than ten years of experience to the table. I want to partner with my clients to improve their lives and help them reach their full potential. My work is my calling, and it is my passion in life to empower my clients and help them feel fully supported in reaching their goals.
The decision to start therapy can be an intimidating one. It is my job to make that a little easier. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, and strive to create a safe, welcoming environment for anyone I meet. I incorporate multiple approaches, and bring more than ten years of experience to the table. I want to partner with my clients to improve their lives and help them reach their full potential. My work is my calling, and it is my passion in life to empower my clients and help them feel fully supported in reaching their goals.
(865) 622-4511 View (865) 622-4511
Photo of Jessica Kyle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Kyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Jessica Kyle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider qualification (LPC-MHSP) with 5 years of experience. Jessica is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address challenges to live a better and more meaningful life. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, behavioral issues in children, and major life changes. Jessica completed her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Milligan University. Her personal mental health experiences coupled with her education and professional experience enable her to give clients the support they seek.
Jessica Kyle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider qualification (LPC-MHSP) with 5 years of experience. Jessica is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address challenges to live a better and more meaningful life. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, behavioral issues in children, and major life changes. Jessica completed her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Milligan University. Her personal mental health experiences coupled with her education and professional experience enable her to give clients the support they seek.
(865) 518-4165 View (865) 518-4165
Photo of Dr. A. Nikki Hilton, PhD, LHSP, Psychologist
Dr. A. Nikki Hilton
Psychologist, PhD, LHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917  (Online Only)
You are here because you want something in your life to change. I offer an authentic, non-judgmental space, filled with unconditional care &, I guarantee, laughter. We will work together to establish goals, &, with patience, accomplish the change that you want in your life. I work with individuals in 40 states in the U.S. via telehealth (see the PsyPact website for more information & the full map of participating states).
You are here because you want something in your life to change. I offer an authentic, non-judgmental space, filled with unconditional care &, I guarantee, laughter. We will work together to establish goals, &, with patience, accomplish the change that you want in your life. I work with individuals in 40 states in the U.S. via telehealth (see the PsyPact website for more information & the full map of participating states).
(865) 412-8677 View (865) 412-8677
Photo of Stephanie McLain Wasserman, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie McLain Wasserman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
We provide equine assisted counseling which utilizes horses in helping clients meet their counseling goals. We have a passion for working with children and families and can address target goals such as communication, relationship building, problem behaviors, anxiety, depression, etc.
We provide equine assisted counseling which utilizes horses in helping clients meet their counseling goals. We have a passion for working with children and families and can address target goals such as communication, relationship building, problem behaviors, anxiety, depression, etc.
(865) 551-6986 View (865) 551-6986
Photo of Jahna Golly, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jahna Golly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Waitlist for new clients
Why go to therapy? We all are allowed to have a crisis, but shouldn't do it at the same time. Therapy can be an incredible tool to help guide us in any stage of life. An experience designed around your individual needs, as healing comes in many forms. As a therapist, I seek to create an open and trusting space for you to be heard, to better understand yourself and to develop strategies that help you to navigate life with a healthy mindset. The therapeutic strategies that I use are guided by a trauma informed lens that allows for the use of many different potential interventions and determined by your personal needs and preferences.
Why go to therapy? We all are allowed to have a crisis, but shouldn't do it at the same time. Therapy can be an incredible tool to help guide us in any stage of life. An experience designed around your individual needs, as healing comes in many forms. As a therapist, I seek to create an open and trusting space for you to be heard, to better understand yourself and to develop strategies that help you to navigate life with a healthy mindset. The therapeutic strategies that I use are guided by a trauma informed lens that allows for the use of many different potential interventions and determined by your personal needs and preferences.
(865) 982-5225 View (865) 982-5225
Photo of Brett Gleason, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brett Gleason
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I am a licensed professional counselor that specializes in working with children with emotional and behavioral issues including those who come from hard places and have experienced various types of trauma. I operate from an attachment perspective to help children, parents and families strengthen their relationships to get their deepest needs met. Being an adoptive father I have a particular heart for adoption and foster care.
I am a licensed professional counselor that specializes in working with children with emotional and behavioral issues including those who come from hard places and have experienced various types of trauma. I operate from an attachment perspective to help children, parents and families strengthen their relationships to get their deepest needs met. Being an adoptive father I have a particular heart for adoption and foster care.
(865) 240-2253 View (865) 240-2253
Photo of Michael C Van Camp - Hope Counseling Services LLC, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
We are accepting new clients! At Hope Counseling, we understand how difficult it is to reach out for help. Our goal is to prove our commitment to you, in your journey to better mental health. We are dedicated and passionate about providing individualized treatment to our clients. Whether it is first onset psychosis or ongoing depression, marital problems or divorce recovery, anxiety or trauma we are here to serve you. We have enjoyed working with clients of different ages and background, that have reached their goals and made lasting improvements. We hope you will be our next successful client! HEALING happens here!
We are accepting new clients! At Hope Counseling, we understand how difficult it is to reach out for help. Our goal is to prove our commitment to you, in your journey to better mental health. We are dedicated and passionate about providing individualized treatment to our clients. Whether it is first onset psychosis or ongoing depression, marital problems or divorce recovery, anxiety or trauma we are here to serve you. We have enjoyed working with clients of different ages and background, that have reached their goals and made lasting improvements. We hope you will be our next successful client! HEALING happens here!
(865) 234-9860 View (865) 234-9860
Photo of Alicia Lynn Stewart, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Lynn Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
My clients are focused on making their lives better through self-discovery and development of practical coping skills to deal with life issues. Most are seeking help with anxiety, OCD, trauma symptoms or other mood disorders that affect their ability to live life the way they want to live it.
My clients are focused on making their lives better through self-discovery and development of practical coping skills to deal with life issues. Most are seeking help with anxiety, OCD, trauma symptoms or other mood disorders that affect their ability to live life the way they want to live it.
(865) 635-4978 View (865) 635-4978
Photo of Christopher Montanaro, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Montanaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. As a professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve a greater level of well-being and fulfillment in their lives. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques and strategies, I work collaboratively with clients to address a wide range of concerns. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals facing a wide range of challenges, from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, low self-esteem, job issues, divorce, family dysfunction, anger issues and more.
Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. As a professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve a greater level of well-being and fulfillment in their lives. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques and strategies, I work collaboratively with clients to address a wide range of concerns. I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals facing a wide range of challenges, from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, low self-esteem, job issues, divorce, family dysfunction, anger issues and more.
(865) 253-8857 View (865) 253-8857
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
66% Stress
65% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Aetna
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.