Therapists in Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX

Photo of Wendy M Crook-Abel, PhD, Psychologist
Wendy M Crook-Abel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist committed to helping you build a life worth living. I work with a variety of issues including recovering from trauma, coping with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and learning to manage emotions. My approach is to work collaboratively with you to learn new behaviors and skills to replace ineffective patterns of behavior that are interfering in your life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist committed to helping you build a life worth living. I work with a variety of issues including recovering from trauma, coping with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and learning to manage emotions. My approach is to work collaboratively with you to learn new behaviors and skills to replace ineffective patterns of behavior that are interfering in your life.
(361) 203-4513 View (361) 203-4513
Photo of Toi Renee Tippin - Turn The Tide Therapy With Toi , MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turn The Tide Therapy With Toi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78412  (Online Only)
We will work through the mindsets and habits that are hindering your ability to find peace, be successful, and thrive using some cognitive behavioral therapy and reality therapy. I find significance in exploring a whole body approach so we will take time to discuss your diet, self-talk, sleep, exercise, spiritual, and self-care routines. We will explore outside resources for you to research, read, listen to, try out in real life, and discuss your progress in session. Specifically, how your individual tendencies impact your relationships, career, and overall well-being and what approach should we take to improve these areas.
We will work through the mindsets and habits that are hindering your ability to find peace, be successful, and thrive using some cognitive behavioral therapy and reality therapy. I find significance in exploring a whole body approach so we will take time to discuss your diet, self-talk, sleep, exercise, spiritual, and self-care routines. We will explore outside resources for you to research, read, listen to, try out in real life, and discuss your progress in session. Specifically, how your individual tendencies impact your relationships, career, and overall well-being and what approach should we take to improve these areas.
(361) 304-2585 View (361) 304-2585
Photo of Ashleigh Forney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashleigh Forney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Is your life not going the way you want it to go? I'm here to help clients through hardships/struggles as we focus on fostering happier, healthier, and more peaceful times. I use an integrated approach, working collaboratively with clients to meet the goals they desire. If you are stressed, experiencing anxiety, depression, family drama, are a parent seeking support for a child/teen, or just want to talk to someone who will listen, then give me a call. I work with my clients at a pace comfortable for them while also gently pushing from time to time because growth and progress are often found outside our comfort zones.
Is your life not going the way you want it to go? I'm here to help clients through hardships/struggles as we focus on fostering happier, healthier, and more peaceful times. I use an integrated approach, working collaboratively with clients to meet the goals they desire. If you are stressed, experiencing anxiety, depression, family drama, are a parent seeking support for a child/teen, or just want to talk to someone who will listen, then give me a call. I work with my clients at a pace comfortable for them while also gently pushing from time to time because growth and progress are often found outside our comfort zones.
(361) 204-3060 View (361) 204-3060
Photo of James Aron Hunter, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Aron Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418  (Online Only)
Mental Health Does Not Occur in a Vacuum! In order to treat mental health issues you need to address the bigger picture! I believe in a total wellness approach to treating mental health disorders and life issues that considers the larger picture of health: Mental, Emotional, Physical, Social, Spiritual, Environmental, & Occupational or sense of purpose. People who are dealing with: suffered trauma in their lives, toxic relationships, codependency, anxiety, depression, apathy, lack of motivation, substance abuse/addiction, insecurity and adjustment to live issues I understand and I see you. I am ready to help you!
Mental Health Does Not Occur in a Vacuum! In order to treat mental health issues you need to address the bigger picture! I believe in a total wellness approach to treating mental health disorders and life issues that considers the larger picture of health: Mental, Emotional, Physical, Social, Spiritual, Environmental, & Occupational or sense of purpose. People who are dealing with: suffered trauma in their lives, toxic relationships, codependency, anxiety, depression, apathy, lack of motivation, substance abuse/addiction, insecurity and adjustment to live issues I understand and I see you. I am ready to help you!
(361) 315-7740 View (361) 315-7740
Photo of Patricia A Hamilton, MS, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia A Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418  (Online Only)
Everyone is unique and has their own way of expressing themselves; this belief leads me to adapt my approach according to the individual, couple and family. I draw from various treatments such as Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy to meet the individual and their needs.
Everyone is unique and has their own way of expressing themselves; this belief leads me to adapt my approach according to the individual, couple and family. I draw from various treatments such as Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy to meet the individual and their needs.
(361) 420-8899 View (361) 420-8899
Photo of Donna Garcia-Devlin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna Garcia-Devlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
I enjoy working with a variety of clients. I am of Mexican, French-Canadian/English descent so I am naturally drawn to individuals with a multi-cultural background. One of my favorite classes in graduate school was Life-Span. I think that each stage of human development is an opportunity to grow and change. Sometimes we get stuck. If that describes you, call for an appointment. I would be honored to work with you on accessing your courage and strengths.
I enjoy working with a variety of clients. I am of Mexican, French-Canadian/English descent so I am naturally drawn to individuals with a multi-cultural background. One of my favorite classes in graduate school was Life-Span. I think that each stage of human development is an opportunity to grow and change. Sometimes we get stuck. If that describes you, call for an appointment. I would be honored to work with you on accessing your courage and strengths.
(972) 891-9712 View (972) 891-9712
Photo of Suzy C Thompson, PhD, MEd
Suzy C Thompson
PhD, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418  (Online Only)
After teaching college for 17 years, I walked away from academia so I could devote myself to encouraging and empowering my Christian sisters to live their best lives by learning to trust and really lean into Jesus. I started my practice in 2008 working within my specialization of creatives and gifted girls. After experiencing the emotional trauma of betrayal, I went back to school to become intimacy anorexia and betrayal trauma certified as well. Today, I work with women who are wrestling with identity, calling, worth, betrayal trauma, and a number of life-transitions. If you are ready to pick up your sword and fight, reach out.
After teaching college for 17 years, I walked away from academia so I could devote myself to encouraging and empowering my Christian sisters to live their best lives by learning to trust and really lean into Jesus. I started my practice in 2008 working within my specialization of creatives and gifted girls. After experiencing the emotional trauma of betrayal, I went back to school to become intimacy anorexia and betrayal trauma certified as well. Today, I work with women who are wrestling with identity, calling, worth, betrayal trauma, and a number of life-transitions. If you are ready to pick up your sword and fight, reach out.
(254) 232-5690 View (254) 232-5690
Photo of Laurie Hoffman, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laurie Hoffman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418  (Online Only)
Sometimes knowing there is a safe and confidential place to confide in is all we need. This is what helps us to move forward! Whether you’re in a difficult life transition, challenging relationship or suffer from issues such as addiction, alcohol use, drug abuse, eating disorders, gambling, trauma or lingering PTSD we can work together to find a way through.
Sometimes knowing there is a safe and confidential place to confide in is all we need. This is what helps us to move forward! Whether you’re in a difficult life transition, challenging relationship or suffer from issues such as addiction, alcohol use, drug abuse, eating disorders, gambling, trauma or lingering PTSD we can work together to find a way through.
(361) 240-8383 View (361) 240-8383
Photo of Esther Gonzalez-Powell, MS, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Esther Gonzalez-Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Feeling alone and nervous in a relationship that once brought you excitement and joy? You may even be on edge to share your thoughts, feelings, and desires for fear of rejection or a big blowup. Sometimes we even lie to ourselves because we don’t want to deal with the uncomfortableness of it all. We feel like we have to keep it together for us, for our children, for family. 
Feeling alone and nervous in a relationship that once brought you excitement and joy? You may even be on edge to share your thoughts, feelings, and desires for fear of rejection or a big blowup. Sometimes we even lie to ourselves because we don’t want to deal with the uncomfortableness of it all. We feel like we have to keep it together for us, for our children, for family. 
(361) 201-1764 View (361) 201-1764
Photo of Stacy Hooper, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy Hooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Are you feeling stuck, unmotivated, or confused? Maybe life’s circumstances are causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or inadequate. Life can be complicated. Demands on our time and emotional resources increase daily. You don’t have to go through this alone. Personally, I know the relief of breaking free from thoughts and behaviors that keep us in the exhausting cycle of pain and confusion. If you are ready for a change, I would love to assist you with your needs. I am on this journey of wellness with you! I’m excited to get to know you and empower you to confront the uncomfortable and sticky things that life throws at us.
Are you feeling stuck, unmotivated, or confused? Maybe life’s circumstances are causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or inadequate. Life can be complicated. Demands on our time and emotional resources increase daily. You don’t have to go through this alone. Personally, I know the relief of breaking free from thoughts and behaviors that keep us in the exhausting cycle of pain and confusion. If you are ready for a change, I would love to assist you with your needs. I am on this journey of wellness with you! I’m excited to get to know you and empower you to confront the uncomfortable and sticky things that life throws at us.
(361) 320-3742 View (361) 320-3742
Photo of Carla Hileman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carla Hileman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Much of my work involves helping my clients identify what is going well for them, and learning ways to include more of those positives into their lives. This naturally helps reduce the sting of the negatives life throws at us. I help clients identify their own strengths and develop coping skills for use during difficult times. I have experience in helping clients work through past and recent traumas of all types. I’m a fully certified EMDR practitioner, which is a type of therapy that reprocesses trauma in such a way that clients end up feeling empowered by the same experiences that once debased them.
Much of my work involves helping my clients identify what is going well for them, and learning ways to include more of those positives into their lives. This naturally helps reduce the sting of the negatives life throws at us. I help clients identify their own strengths and develop coping skills for use during difficult times. I have experience in helping clients work through past and recent traumas of all types. I’m a fully certified EMDR practitioner, which is a type of therapy that reprocesses trauma in such a way that clients end up feeling empowered by the same experiences that once debased them.
(361) 203-8440 View (361) 203-8440
Photo of Jacklyn Rodriguez, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacklyn Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overcome by the stress you experience? Are you finding yourself withdrawing from things that normally interest you? Are you just not feeling quite like yourself? I have 18 years in the mental health field working in several areas of focus. I have worked with individuals navigating mental health pregnancy & postpartum, anxiety, depression, parental stress, and trauma. Therapy can provide a safe space for you to explore what is holding you back, build coping skills to emotionally manage, and grow to love yourself throughout the journey. Your story deserves to be heard.
Do you feel overcome by the stress you experience? Are you finding yourself withdrawing from things that normally interest you? Are you just not feeling quite like yourself? I have 18 years in the mental health field working in several areas of focus. I have worked with individuals navigating mental health pregnancy & postpartum, anxiety, depression, parental stress, and trauma. Therapy can provide a safe space for you to explore what is holding you back, build coping skills to emotionally manage, and grow to love yourself throughout the journey. Your story deserves to be heard.
(361) 738-5337 View (361) 738-5337
Photo of Jacqueline P Parsons, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline P Parsons
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Dealing with life’s challenges? We all are, but not everyone needs a diagnosis when going through a solvable situation. You can beat the fear! Working with me, we can identify your strengths, what's frightening you and how to overcome it. Sometimes you just need to sit down with a counselor that respects and wants to work with you based on your strengths. I know how to work with people negotiating complicated times successfully,
Dealing with life’s challenges? We all are, but not everyone needs a diagnosis when going through a solvable situation. You can beat the fear! Working with me, we can identify your strengths, what's frightening you and how to overcome it. Sometimes you just need to sit down with a counselor that respects and wants to work with you based on your strengths. I know how to work with people negotiating complicated times successfully,
(210) 881-7907 View (210) 881-7907
Photo of Kandice Fricke, MS, LPC, -S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kandice Fricke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, -S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Are you wanting to begin a journey towards self-discovery and growth? Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety and constant overthinking? Are you in a relationship and want to foster deeper connection with your partner by improving communication and conflict resolution? Are you going through the complexities of divorce and feel ready to embrace change, heal, and rediscover your sense of identity? Are you struggling to heal after a loss or death of a loved one? Are you consumed with complex emotions due to life transitions: new relationship, new parent, empty nester, job changes?
Are you wanting to begin a journey towards self-discovery and growth? Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety and constant overthinking? Are you in a relationship and want to foster deeper connection with your partner by improving communication and conflict resolution? Are you going through the complexities of divorce and feel ready to embrace change, heal, and rediscover your sense of identity? Are you struggling to heal after a loss or death of a loved one? Are you consumed with complex emotions due to life transitions: new relationship, new parent, empty nester, job changes?
(361) 221-1117 View (361) 221-1117
Photo of Marisol Garza - Marisol Garza: EMDR/Brainspotting/IFS Intensives , MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marisol Garza: EMDR/Brainspotting/IFS Intensives
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Are you wanting immediate relief from your grief and trauma symptoms? Or maybe you’ve been in therapy for a while, and you feel you can’t get unstuck. Having these painful emotions or images can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. The pain can be isolating because others may not fully understand. Starting the healing process may feel daunting, given the range of intense emotions you're experiencing - from moments of numbness, fear, or even guilt to sudden outbursts of tears & anger. You need someone who understands and can help you put the pieces of your life back together. You want to feel like you again.
Are you wanting immediate relief from your grief and trauma symptoms? Or maybe you’ve been in therapy for a while, and you feel you can’t get unstuck. Having these painful emotions or images can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. The pain can be isolating because others may not fully understand. Starting the healing process may feel daunting, given the range of intense emotions you're experiencing - from moments of numbness, fear, or even guilt to sudden outbursts of tears & anger. You need someone who understands and can help you put the pieces of your life back together. You want to feel like you again.
(361) 528-6245 View (361) 528-6245
Tiffany Catrine Dunnells
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
(361) 316-8694 View (361) 316-8694

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Richard Trammel, EdD, MS, L3S-CT
Dr. Richard Trammel
EdD, MS, L3S-CT
Verified Verified
As a REAL sports psychologist, I have a unique practice in that I specialize in working with athletes who have the desire to take their game to the next level. Being a competitive athlete helps me relate to other competitive people in sports or business. My primary focus is on confidence building and the elimination of performance anxiety. I use a 3 tiered approach to training: Perspective Training, Mental Skills Training, and Applied Settings (if applicable at a sporting location). I am the only professional to offer that kind of travel service. We also offer Coaching Certification Programs for those who are interested in teaching.
As a REAL sports psychologist, I have a unique practice in that I specialize in working with athletes who have the desire to take their game to the next level. Being a competitive athlete helps me relate to other competitive people in sports or business. My primary focus is on confidence building and the elimination of performance anxiety. I use a 3 tiered approach to training: Perspective Training, Mental Skills Training, and Applied Settings (if applicable at a sporting location). I am the only professional to offer that kind of travel service. We also offer Coaching Certification Programs for those who are interested in teaching.
(361) 203-7756 x2 View (361) 203-7756 x2
Photo of Ann Marie Godines, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann Marie Godines
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
I am committed to helping teens, young adults, individuals, couples, marriages and families to reach their fullest potential, by providing the tools necessary to survive and thrive in life's struggles and challenges. I believe that everyone is worthy and capable, of living a life that they love, so I focus on moving away from self-defeating ways, gaining perspective, and increasing insight. As therapist and client, we can work together to see these changes impact your life in a way that produces resolution and restoration. My goal is to reach marriages, and to restore families. My mission is to build bridges one family at a time.
I am committed to helping teens, young adults, individuals, couples, marriages and families to reach their fullest potential, by providing the tools necessary to survive and thrive in life's struggles and challenges. I believe that everyone is worthy and capable, of living a life that they love, so I focus on moving away from self-defeating ways, gaining perspective, and increasing insight. As therapist and client, we can work together to see these changes impact your life in a way that produces resolution and restoration. My goal is to reach marriages, and to restore families. My mission is to build bridges one family at a time.
(361) 226-1932 View (361) 226-1932
Photo of Kristie Vera, MRC, LPC-S, LSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristie Vera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC-S, LSOTP
Verified Verified
Corpus Christi, TX 78411  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I offer telehealth therapy sessions for individuals, couples, or families. I have experience with both adolescents and adults. I have helped my clients with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, or marital conflict. I am also an LPC-S and provide supervision for LPC-Associates looking to meet the requirements to meet full licensure.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I offer telehealth therapy sessions for individuals, couples, or families. I have experience with both adolescents and adults. I have helped my clients with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, or marital conflict. I am also an LPC-S and provide supervision for LPC-Associates looking to meet the requirements to meet full licensure.
(361) 738-0974 View (361) 738-0974
Photo of Diana Lozano, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Lozano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Do you often struggle with stress and feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? Are you feeling down and need to talk about what you are experiencing? Maybe it is time to take that first step and embark on a journey to mental wellness. I am Diana Lozano and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I am here to listen with an open mind, acceptance, respect, and without judgement. Together we can take that journey towards healing and clarity. I will provide a safe place for you to process everything that has happened, so that you can stay centered in such an unpredictable time that is filled with unknowns.
Do you often struggle with stress and feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? Are you feeling down and need to talk about what you are experiencing? Maybe it is time to take that first step and embark on a journey to mental wellness. I am Diana Lozano and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I am here to listen with an open mind, acceptance, respect, and without judgement. Together we can take that journey towards healing and clarity. I will provide a safe place for you to process everything that has happened, so that you can stay centered in such an unpredictable time that is filled with unknowns.
(361) 233-1134 View (361) 233-1134

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX

10+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX who prioritize treating:

81% Anxiety
75% Relationship Issues
75% Depression
75% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
69% Self Esteem
69% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Aetna
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi, TX see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

94% Female
6% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi?

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.