Therapists in South Side, Corpus Christi, TX

Photo of Michael D Huddleston, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael D Huddleston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
I believe in listening to my client(s) and or their parents to get a better understanding of the psychological, behavioral, or marital issue at hand and developing with the client(s) and or parent a treatment plan that will help that person or that family or that couple achieve full mental health.
I believe in listening to my client(s) and or their parents to get a better understanding of the psychological, behavioral, or marital issue at hand and developing with the client(s) and or parent a treatment plan that will help that person or that family or that couple achieve full mental health.
(361) 500-6344 View (361) 500-6344
Photo of Ann Marie Godines, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann Marie Godines
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
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 Cynthia Faulkner, PhD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Faulkner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413  (Online Only)
I approach the helping relationship with respect, patience, acceptance and collaboration. My practice is client-centered, focusing on your immediate needs and problem-solving different ways to approach roadblocks that prevent you from achieving the quality of life that you deserve. You and I will work together towards solutions that may include learning new and better ways of thinking, feeling and behaving. My goal is to help you identify and reach your goals.
I approach the helping relationship with respect, patience, acceptance and collaboration. My practice is client-centered, focusing on your immediate needs and problem-solving different ways to approach roadblocks that prevent you from achieving the quality of life that you deserve. You and I will work together towards solutions that may include learning new and better ways of thinking, feeling and behaving. My goal is to help you identify and reach your goals.
(361) 603-3193 View (361) 603-3193
Photo of Holly Felts, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Felts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
I partner with the Holy Spirit to help heal hearts and minds, one session at a time. When we carry old and unhealed wounds, they leak poison into us and those around us. This is why hurt people, hurt people. Broken people, break things and other people. But, healed people, Heal People! I utilize evidence based best practices to help clients identify, explore, process, challenge, and heal from their past hurts and suffering. I greatly look forward to coming along side you on your journey to sound mental health and healing. Together, we can help you start living your best life, in the peace and joy we were created to receive.
I partner with the Holy Spirit to help heal hearts and minds, one session at a time. When we carry old and unhealed wounds, they leak poison into us and those around us. This is why hurt people, hurt people. Broken people, break things and other people. But, healed people, Heal People! I utilize evidence based best practices to help clients identify, explore, process, challenge, and heal from their past hurts and suffering. I greatly look forward to coming along side you on your journey to sound mental health and healing. Together, we can help you start living your best life, in the peace and joy we were created to receive.
(361) 201-1259 View (361) 201-1259
Photo of Emma L Hopper, MS, LPC-A
Emma L Hopper
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413  (Online Only)
I primarily work with women ages 16+ on issues of anxiety, depression, sexual impulse control, addiction, trauma and spiritual exploration and growth. I have a heart for young and single mothers as well as those seeking to deepen their relationship with God. It is my hope that we can work to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, that you might regain purpose, fulfillment, and intimacy.
I primarily work with women ages 16+ on issues of anxiety, depression, sexual impulse control, addiction, trauma and spiritual exploration and growth. I have a heart for young and single mothers as well as those seeking to deepen their relationship with God. It is my hope that we can work to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, that you might regain purpose, fulfillment, and intimacy.
(361) 245-3808 View (361) 245-3808
Photo of Eddie Traughber, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eddie Traughber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78412  (Online Only)
My name is Eddie Traughber, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in East Texas but working with clients statewide via telehealth. Through my faith-based approach, I work with adults and couples and specialize in anxiety, sexual addiction, trauma, and grief counseling, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their lives.
My name is Eddie Traughber, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in East Texas but working with clients statewide via telehealth. Through my faith-based approach, I work with adults and couples and specialize in anxiety, sexual addiction, trauma, and grief counseling, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their lives.
(682) 357-4814 View (682) 357-4814
Photo of Tim Johnston - Tim Johnston, LPC - Waves of Grace Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Johnston, LPC - Waves of Grace Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78414  (Online Only)
I believe in providing endless grace, support, and encouragement from start to finish as we work together in helping you process and overcome trauma, abuse, and grief. I will help you learn to develop a healthy view of yourself, others, and the world around you despite the unimaginable circumstances you may have endured. I believe there is hope and a chance for a better life for everyone. Ultimately, we will collaborate as a team to create a treatment plan that will lead to the outcomes you desire most.
I believe in providing endless grace, support, and encouragement from start to finish as we work together in helping you process and overcome trauma, abuse, and grief. I will help you learn to develop a healthy view of yourself, others, and the world around you despite the unimaginable circumstances you may have endured. I believe there is hope and a chance for a better life for everyone. Ultimately, we will collaborate as a team to create a treatment plan that will lead to the outcomes you desire most.
(361) 282-1667 View (361) 282-1667
Photo of Maria Lucente Smith, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Lucente Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78414  (Online Only)
I believe strongly in the growth and healing potential of people, no matter how long they have struggled. I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults struggling with a wide range of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma and interpersonal issues. I provide a safe, empathic, and non-judgmental space for my clients where we can do healing and transformative work. We will uncover your strengths together and build upon them. Everyone is welcome; and I would be honored if you would ask me to help empower you to move forward.
I believe strongly in the growth and healing potential of people, no matter how long they have struggled. I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults struggling with a wide range of issues including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma and interpersonal issues. I provide a safe, empathic, and non-judgmental space for my clients where we can do healing and transformative work. We will uncover your strengths together and build upon them. Everyone is welcome; and I would be honored if you would ask me to help empower you to move forward.
(361) 271-1605 View (361) 271-1605
Photo of Richard Pino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard Pino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78414
I know how hard it can be finding a therapist you connect with. I want to make it easy for you. Read more about me... What's bugging you? Is it a bad experience or a memory of that bad experience? Maybe it's a combination of those. I can help you feel better fast. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach focuses on identifying physical cues, recognizing thoughts, considering consequences, implementing solutions, choosing behaviors, and promoting progress and resolution.
I know how hard it can be finding a therapist you connect with. I want to make it easy for you. Read more about me... What's bugging you? Is it a bad experience or a memory of that bad experience? Maybe it's a combination of those. I can help you feel better fast. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach focuses on identifying physical cues, recognizing thoughts, considering consequences, implementing solutions, choosing behaviors, and promoting progress and resolution.
(469) 824-9769 View (469) 824-9769
Photo of Heather Morales - Heather Morales, MA, LPC, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Morales, MA, LPC, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78414
Are you feeling stuck? As a psychotherapist, it is my privilege to come alongside those who are hurting. Allow me to help and support you as we explore solutions together. I enjoy seeing those who are hurting find healing and peace. Throughout our lives each of us encounters times of hardship when we need someone to come alongside us and provide us with hope. My goal is to provide a caring and safe environment for those who are experiencing emotional pain. Allow me to support you as you make changes for long lasting improvement in your overall quality of life!
Are you feeling stuck? As a psychotherapist, it is my privilege to come alongside those who are hurting. Allow me to help and support you as we explore solutions together. I enjoy seeing those who are hurting find healing and peace. Throughout our lives each of us encounters times of hardship when we need someone to come alongside us and provide us with hope. My goal is to provide a caring and safe environment for those who are experiencing emotional pain. Allow me to support you as you make changes for long lasting improvement in your overall quality of life!
(325) 603-2958 View (325) 603-2958
Photo of Ky Hoelscher, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ky Hoelscher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413  (Online Only)
I collaborate with clients to resolve problems in living, promote emotional growth, and facilitate personal and professional success. I work with individuals, couples, and groups across the life cycle, addressing concerns including (but not limited to); anxiety/depression, interpersonal skills, work/life balance, parenting, chronic/acute illness, and relationships issues for heterosexual, queer, gay and lesbian couples.
I collaborate with clients to resolve problems in living, promote emotional growth, and facilitate personal and professional success. I work with individuals, couples, and groups across the life cycle, addressing concerns including (but not limited to); anxiety/depression, interpersonal skills, work/life balance, parenting, chronic/acute illness, and relationships issues for heterosexual, queer, gay and lesbian couples.
(361) 326-5237 View (361) 326-5237
Photo of Sonya Marie Sharron, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sonya Marie Sharron
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
We all connect in various ways and seek to be understood. My first focus is to establish a good rapport and discover what your mental health needs are through Person Centered Therapy. As we unravel your challenges, my desire is that you feel comforted, clarified, and challenged to grow. The cumulative nature of positive support, mutual observations, and path to self discovery, will allow us to explore treatment options that work. Consultations are FREE. I look forward to speaking with you!
We all connect in various ways and seek to be understood. My first focus is to establish a good rapport and discover what your mental health needs are through Person Centered Therapy. As we unravel your challenges, my desire is that you feel comforted, clarified, and challenged to grow. The cumulative nature of positive support, mutual observations, and path to self discovery, will allow us to explore treatment options that work. Consultations are FREE. I look forward to speaking with you!
(361) 314-1908 View (361) 314-1908
Photo of Manuela Vargas - LIV Counseling, LLC , MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LIV Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
Manuela Vargas is a Bilingual (Spanish/English) Licensed Professional Counselor. She congratulates you for taking action on your healing endeavors! Life experiences can leave lasting imprints on the mind, body, and soul. These impressions may leave you feeling confused, hurt, helpless, and hopeless. Are you tired of feeling stuck? Are you exhausted of fighting an internal battle? Are yesterday's circumstances or tomorrow's worries robbing you of joy? LIV Counseling, LLC offers EMDR, CPT, CBT, and IPT therapies to help you achieve your goals, so you are not only existing, but LIVing life to its fullest potential.
Manuela Vargas is a Bilingual (Spanish/English) Licensed Professional Counselor. She congratulates you for taking action on your healing endeavors! Life experiences can leave lasting imprints on the mind, body, and soul. These impressions may leave you feeling confused, hurt, helpless, and hopeless. Are you tired of feeling stuck? Are you exhausted of fighting an internal battle? Are yesterday's circumstances or tomorrow's worries robbing you of joy? LIV Counseling, LLC offers EMDR, CPT, CBT, and IPT therapies to help you achieve your goals, so you are not only existing, but LIVing life to its fullest potential.
(361) 738-5813 View (361) 738-5813
Photo of LaJoya 'joya' Williams, MS, NCC, LPC-A
LaJoya 'joya' Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Joya is a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate, currently accepting new clients at a reduced/discounted rate under the guidance of Board Approved Supervisor Dr. Jinnelle V. Powell, Ph.D., LPC-S.
Joya is a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate, currently accepting new clients at a reduced/discounted rate under the guidance of Board Approved Supervisor Dr. Jinnelle V. Powell, Ph.D., LPC-S.
(361) 314-2910 View (361) 314-2910
Photo of Andrea Mendoza, MS, NCC
Andrea Mendoza
LPC-Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
Does it ever feel like everyone else has it together? Sometimes you wonder if this is as good as it gets, but that doesn’t feel quite right. Comparing ourselves to others is one of the worst things we can do for our happiness and well-being, and yet, it feels impossible to stop the comparison. I assure you, it is possible to change and to experience the life that you desire. Your life journey is unique and so are the obstacles that come your way. My goal is to help empower you in creating positive change by providing you with a safe space and helpful tools to help bridge the gap from where you are now to where you want to be.
Does it ever feel like everyone else has it together? Sometimes you wonder if this is as good as it gets, but that doesn’t feel quite right. Comparing ourselves to others is one of the worst things we can do for our happiness and well-being, and yet, it feels impossible to stop the comparison. I assure you, it is possible to change and to experience the life that you desire. Your life journey is unique and so are the obstacles that come your way. My goal is to help empower you in creating positive change by providing you with a safe space and helpful tools to help bridge the gap from where you are now to where you want to be.
(361) 204-3298 View (361) 204-3298
Photo of Tania Pratt, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tania Pratt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
Hello and welcome! My name is Tania Pratt, and I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I specialize in working with individuals that come from diverse backgrounds seeking support and guidance to navigate through difficult life transitions, heal from past traumas, manage overwhelming emotions, and improve relationships. With a diverse experience working with clients of all ages, I customize my therapeutic approach to cater to each individual's specific needs.
Hello and welcome! My name is Tania Pratt, and I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) based in Texas. I specialize in working with individuals that come from diverse backgrounds seeking support and guidance to navigate through difficult life transitions, heal from past traumas, manage overwhelming emotions, and improve relationships. With a diverse experience working with clients of all ages, I customize my therapeutic approach to cater to each individual's specific needs.
(281) 789-6341 View (281) 789-6341
Photo of Amanda Brown, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
I help my clients find meaning, purpose, and hope in the face of hardship, as well as equip them with the tools to live a healthy, fulfilled life. My hope for each client is to feel like you have someone you trust to talk to in the midst of crazy life circumstances. If you feel yourself getting stuck, finding it hard to make sense of your current situation, and are struggling to feel hope in your life, we can work together to find the healing and hope you've been looking for. I also provide play therapy for children experiencing social, emotional, and/or behavioral problems, and support services for the grown-ups who love them.
I help my clients find meaning, purpose, and hope in the face of hardship, as well as equip them with the tools to live a healthy, fulfilled life. My hope for each client is to feel like you have someone you trust to talk to in the midst of crazy life circumstances. If you feel yourself getting stuck, finding it hard to make sense of your current situation, and are struggling to feel hope in your life, we can work together to find the healing and hope you've been looking for. I also provide play therapy for children experiencing social, emotional, and/or behavioral problems, and support services for the grown-ups who love them.
(361) 420-3318 View (361) 420-3318
Photo of Angelina M. Ortiz, MS, NCC, LPCA
Angelina M. Ortiz
LPC Associate, MS, NCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
My name is Angelina Ortiz, I am here to assist you in reaching your personal goals whether they are working through grief, anxiety, depression or just seeking personal growth. As a therapist I choose to walk through this journey of healing and self-discovery with you to create a better and brighter tomorrow. My counseling philosophy is eclectic, utilizing approaches from Client Centered/Child-Centered, CBT, Trauma Informed, MindfuIness and Solution Focused. I believe each and every person is unique and so I tailor my practices to what works best for you.
My name is Angelina Ortiz, I am here to assist you in reaching your personal goals whether they are working through grief, anxiety, depression or just seeking personal growth. As a therapist I choose to walk through this journey of healing and self-discovery with you to create a better and brighter tomorrow. My counseling philosophy is eclectic, utilizing approaches from Client Centered/Child-Centered, CBT, Trauma Informed, MindfuIness and Solution Focused. I believe each and every person is unique and so I tailor my practices to what works best for you.
(361) 524-1049 View (361) 524-1049
Photo of Theresa Montoya, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Montoya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78414
Have you felt alone, unheard, or misunderstood due to trauma or addiction? I offer a safe space where you can be truly seen and heard. Let's shift focus from "what's wrong with me" to "what's right with me" as we move towards stability and healing together.
Have you felt alone, unheard, or misunderstood due to trauma or addiction? I offer a safe space where you can be truly seen and heard. Let's shift focus from "what's wrong with me" to "what's right with me" as we move towards stability and healing together.
(361) 605-9073 View (361) 605-9073
Photo of Christopher Fisher, PhD, BCN, Psychologist
Christopher Fisher
Psychologist, PhD, BCN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Side, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
I work with patients who present with a wide variety of psychological conditions. I particularly enjoy helping those who suffer from anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder (panic attacks), social anxiety, generalized anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and phobias. I also work with children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD / ADD), primarily through neurofeedback. Additionally, I frequently work with patients who suffer from major depression and related depressive disorders, such as dysthymia. Lastly, I provide psychological evaluations (typically conducted for diagnosis and treatment), ADHD assessment with continuous performance testing, and academic / intelligence testing (excluding public schools).
I work with patients who present with a wide variety of psychological conditions. I particularly enjoy helping those who suffer from anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder (panic attacks), social anxiety, generalized anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and phobias. I also work with children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD / ADD), primarily through neurofeedback. Additionally, I frequently work with patients who suffer from major depression and related depressive disorders, such as dysthymia. Lastly, I provide psychological evaluations (typically conducted for diagnosis and treatment), ADHD assessment with continuous performance testing, and academic / intelligence testing (excluding public schools).
(361) 437-4238 View (361) 437-4238

See more therapy options for South Side, Corpus Christi

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in South Side, Corpus Christi, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$115

Therapists in South Side, Corpus Christi, TX who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
93% Anxiety
76% Relationship Issues
74% Coping Skills
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Stress
69% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Aetna
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in South Side, Corpus Christi, TX see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in South Side, 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.