Therapists in Montpelier, VA
![Photo of Marita Kershaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25f23ca9-5085-478e-b45c-6510fa234bc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of diverse experience and continue to evolve in new treatment models. I have worked with individuals, families, and couples alike. I have specialized training in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and women's issues. Due to my years of experience, I've learned techniques and strategies that include Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Christian Counseling therapies. I believe that using various techniques and strategies to assist you in your journey is a fulfilling movement as a therapist.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of diverse experience and continue to evolve in new treatment models. I have worked with individuals, families, and couples alike. I have specialized training in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and women's issues. Due to my years of experience, I've learned techniques and strategies that include Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Christian Counseling therapies. I believe that using various techniques and strategies to assist you in your journey is a fulfilling movement as a therapist.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Emilee Burke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a29de0-d5fe-4ce0-a1b3-848bcbb4b964/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Emilee Smith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia, working with clients state-wide via telehealth. I have experience working with many populations including children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have experience helping people with anxiety, depression, and parent-child relationships. I work with clients of all ages and most often use a cognitive behavioral approach. When a person's automatic thoughts and behaviors are unhealthy, anxiety, depression, and conflict in relationships can be the result.
My name is Emilee Smith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Virginia, working with clients state-wide via telehealth. I have experience working with many populations including children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have experience helping people with anxiety, depression, and parent-child relationships. I work with clients of all ages and most often use a cognitive behavioral approach. When a person's automatic thoughts and behaviors are unhealthy, anxiety, depression, and conflict in relationships can be the result.
![Photo of Gabriella Eljaiek, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c576b01-c577-46ea-9d75-109362e4d0ad/1/320x400.png)
Gabriella Eljaiek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, VA 23146 (Online Only)
I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing challenges like anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, relationship conflict, parenting issues, and more. My practice is rooted in an integrative, person-centered, inclusive, trauma/systems-informed, and neuroaffirming framework for mental health and well-being. I respect your identity and experiences, creating a safe space for collaboration and growth. I trust in your inherent wisdom for healing and serve as a facilitator on your journey through guidance, support, and sometimes humor.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing challenges like anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, relationship conflict, parenting issues, and more. My practice is rooted in an integrative, person-centered, inclusive, trauma/systems-informed, and neuroaffirming framework for mental health and well-being. I respect your identity and experiences, creating a safe space for collaboration and growth. I trust in your inherent wisdom for healing and serve as a facilitator on your journey through guidance, support, and sometimes humor.
![Photo of Sherry Bowman McClanahan, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5fa7a53-72e1-44a7-8ac8-803aaea92b63/1/320x400.png)
Sherry Bowman McClanahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverdam, VA 23015 (Online Only)
I believe that each one of us has unique life circumstances and that the counseling process should meet your specific needs. My style is welcoming, straightforward and compassionate. My focus is on identifying your strengths and helping you to recognize your potential. I employ a client-centered approach in a collaborative effort with you to foster hope and the positive change that you desire. I utilize an eclectic evidence based modality tailored to your individual needs. I work with individual adults. Sat and Sun appts available. I can schedule you within a week. Telehealth only.
I believe that each one of us has unique life circumstances and that the counseling process should meet your specific needs. My style is welcoming, straightforward and compassionate. My focus is on identifying your strengths and helping you to recognize your potential. I employ a client-centered approach in a collaborative effort with you to foster hope and the positive change that you desire. I utilize an eclectic evidence based modality tailored to your individual needs. I work with individual adults. Sat and Sun appts available. I can schedule you within a week. Telehealth only.
![Photo of Jennifer Eckert, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0064b08c-a073-4dfa-801b-626b9c1e521d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Eckert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Allen, VA 23059
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in the states of Virginia, Florida, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia. I have over 20 years of counseling and behavioral health experience. I have worked with children as young as 6 and adults throughout the lifespan. My expertise is helping teens and adults overcome the challenges of depression, anxiety, ADHD, emotional regulation, trauma, addiction, relationship issues and navigating the seasons of life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in the states of Virginia, Florida, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia. I have over 20 years of counseling and behavioral health experience. I have worked with children as young as 6 and adults throughout the lifespan. My expertise is helping teens and adults overcome the challenges of depression, anxiety, ADHD, emotional regulation, trauma, addiction, relationship issues and navigating the seasons of life.
![Photo of Alvin Ray, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3032486e-c547-414f-b53e-d8bdd31aeee2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is A. Chad Ray, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) from the Volunteer state of Tennessee. I am licensed in both VA and TN and see clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults who have issues with anxiety, stress, addiction, and insomnia. When helping clients achieve their clinical goals, I utilize Solution Oriented Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Systems Therapy, Emotion Focused, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
My name is A. Chad Ray, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) from the Volunteer state of Tennessee. I am licensed in both VA and TN and see clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults who have issues with anxiety, stress, addiction, and insomnia. When helping clients achieve their clinical goals, I utilize Solution Oriented Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Systems Therapy, Emotion Focused, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
![Photo of Robert K Raborn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48bfcf82-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert K Raborn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockville, VA 23146
Waitlist for new clients
The journey to finding the right therapist can indeed feel daunting and challenging. It's perfectly normal to question whether counseling is the right path for you, or if it might bring up painful memories. You may even worry about being judged for not having everything figured out. Please remember, it's okay not to have all the answers. You're not alone in this journey and there's no need for you to bear these burdens silently. You are deserving of support from a highly-skilled professional who has a genuine passion for helping others and can provide hopeful solutions tailored just for you.
The journey to finding the right therapist can indeed feel daunting and challenging. It's perfectly normal to question whether counseling is the right path for you, or if it might bring up painful memories. You may even worry about being judged for not having everything figured out. Please remember, it's okay not to have all the answers. You're not alone in this journey and there's no need for you to bear these burdens silently. You are deserving of support from a highly-skilled professional who has a genuine passion for helping others and can provide hopeful solutions tailored just for you.
![Photo of Mary Beth Heller, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/637ec476-d9da-441e-958e-56aab3c9b0e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
At our first meeting, I will listen to your story so I can understand what got you (or a loved one) to this point, with special attention to your hopes for the future. Over my 30+ years in practice, my clients have found me collaborative, warm, supportive, honest, and engaging, with a healthy dose of humor. I work with school-aged children, teens, and adults and I especially enjoy helping parents develop effective strategies to address concerns about their children's behavioral, developmental, and mental health challenges.
At our first meeting, I will listen to your story so I can understand what got you (or a loved one) to this point, with special attention to your hopes for the future. Over my 30+ years in practice, my clients have found me collaborative, warm, supportive, honest, and engaging, with a healthy dose of humor. I work with school-aged children, teens, and adults and I especially enjoy helping parents develop effective strategies to address concerns about their children's behavioral, developmental, and mental health challenges.
![Photo of Laura Giles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2962598-43f9-42de-a290-23e8ab1fbeee/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, feeling like you are living someone else's life, or just tired of feeling stuck, it's time to change all that. Every one of us has the resources within us to live happy, fulfilled lives. You can too. Don't be discouraged by past failures. I specialize in dealing with the "hard to help." If you are ready to leave the pain behind and start a new future, call today. Let today be the day you turn your life around.
If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, feeling like you are living someone else's life, or just tired of feeling stuck, it's time to change all that. Every one of us has the resources within us to live happy, fulfilled lives. You can too. Don't be discouraged by past failures. I specialize in dealing with the "hard to help." If you are ready to leave the pain behind and start a new future, call today. Let today be the day you turn your life around.
![Photo of Raena Gradford, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3588c044-f179-459f-8443-047b2e07751f/2/320x400.jpeg)
You might be feeling overwhelmed by past experiences, struggling with your identity, or simply trying to navigate the complexities of life. You’re looking for a space where you can be truly seen and heard—a place to heal and grow without judgment. Your goals might include finding peace, building resilience, or gaining a deeper understanding of yourself. Above all, you want to work with someone who respects your unique story and can offer the guidance and support you need to move forward. This is where I can help.
You might be feeling overwhelmed by past experiences, struggling with your identity, or simply trying to navigate the complexities of life. You’re looking for a space where you can be truly seen and heard—a place to heal and grow without judgment. Your goals might include finding peace, building resilience, or gaining a deeper understanding of yourself. Above all, you want to work with someone who respects your unique story and can offer the guidance and support you need to move forward. This is where I can help.
![Photo of Melissa Marks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ba128f0-933f-495d-ae91-50f46203900a/2/320x400.png)
I have an array of hands-on experience from initially beginning in healthcare and later transitioning into mental health. I received a master's degree in Marriage and Family in 2013 and a master's degree in Professional Counseling in 2015. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger, mood instability, and substance abuse. I believe that we all experience moments where we need additional support and someone to walk alongside us on our journey.
I have an array of hands-on experience from initially beginning in healthcare and later transitioning into mental health. I received a master's degree in Marriage and Family in 2013 and a master's degree in Professional Counseling in 2015. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger, mood instability, and substance abuse. I believe that we all experience moments where we need additional support and someone to walk alongside us on our journey.
![Photo of Lindsey Koerner, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1c2b2a0-0733-4dc8-bb20-892c640f7fe8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you felt like the rug has been pulled out from under you? That life is not going the way you expected? The first question is "why?" closely followed by "what now?" When this happens it can be hard to refocus, adjust expectations, and strengthen your purpose. Sometimes the struggle comes as part of an external event, like losing a job, yet often it's part of a more internal tug-of-war, like a lack of self-confidence. I would like to partner with you to help as you build resilience, process loss and unresolved issues; moving forward with purpose and hope in alignment with your strengths and values.
Have you felt like the rug has been pulled out from under you? That life is not going the way you expected? The first question is "why?" closely followed by "what now?" When this happens it can be hard to refocus, adjust expectations, and strengthen your purpose. Sometimes the struggle comes as part of an external event, like losing a job, yet often it's part of a more internal tug-of-war, like a lack of self-confidence. I would like to partner with you to help as you build resilience, process loss and unresolved issues; moving forward with purpose and hope in alignment with your strengths and values.
![Photo of Beth Ann Meyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f99c8786-9a18-4b8f-b092-8fea0b170a6c/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with people of all ages and many backgrounds, ethnicities, and circumstances. I work with you to reach your goals by using your current strengths, supports, and coping skills and adding to them during therapy sessions and real-world application between sessions regardless of your situation. I am here to assist you along life's journey, whether that is a time of change, loss, stress, maintaining, or moving forward.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with people of all ages and many backgrounds, ethnicities, and circumstances. I work with you to reach your goals by using your current strengths, supports, and coping skills and adding to them during therapy sessions and real-world application between sessions regardless of your situation. I am here to assist you along life's journey, whether that is a time of change, loss, stress, maintaining, or moving forward.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Dr. Katherine Kelly, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5cb76a3-fa74-4e37-b38f-f5432530eb39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Katherine Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Waitlist for new clients
Currently not accepting new patients until January. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, feeling down, or are experiencing chronic stress. Maybe you are adjusting to a new life change, seeking to achieve balance, or have experienced trauma. It may feel like the past or future is running the present. Collaboratively, we can achieve your goals so that you can feel better and connect to your authentic self.
Currently not accepting new patients until January. Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, feeling down, or are experiencing chronic stress. Maybe you are adjusting to a new life change, seeking to achieve balance, or have experienced trauma. It may feel like the past or future is running the present. Collaboratively, we can achieve your goals so that you can feel better and connect to your authentic self.
![Photo of Brian Jacob Martin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2cff1eb-fbd1-4554-bc79-e6a798c2958f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Jacob Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I am currently taking new adult clients . I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who currently works as an outpatient counselor for adults. I have spent the majority of my career so far working with children and their families in home-based settings. In addition to counseling, I am currently the executive director for the Community Counseling Center.
I am currently taking new adult clients . I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who currently works as an outpatient counselor for adults. I have spent the majority of my career so far working with children and their families in home-based settings. In addition to counseling, I am currently the executive director for the Community Counseling Center.
![Photo of Jen Lerma, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed53122c-e8d1-4af3-a2ab-55dd1c950944/1/320x400.png)
Jen Lerma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314 (Online Only)
The process of therapy is much like a flower blooming: each petal unfolds gently at its own pace under nurturing conditions, eventually revealing a unique and lovely creation where the sum of its parts is greater than the whole. I value the process of unfolding and seek to create a warm and safe space for your story and growth to unfold organically in our work together. The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my approach and I hope to support you on your journey towards a balanced and meaningful life. I believe in the power of play and utilizing expressive therapies to help you expand, explore, and move through challenges.
The process of therapy is much like a flower blooming: each petal unfolds gently at its own pace under nurturing conditions, eventually revealing a unique and lovely creation where the sum of its parts is greater than the whole. I value the process of unfolding and seek to create a warm and safe space for your story and growth to unfold organically in our work together. The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my approach and I hope to support you on your journey towards a balanced and meaningful life. I believe in the power of play and utilizing expressive therapies to help you expand, explore, and move through challenges.
![Photo of Melissa Douglas, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56e20dc4-a580-41a7-9c11-c4cfb2869fc1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone needs a place for space. A space to be heard. A space to share whatever you want. A space to process feelings, try out new perspectives, laugh, cry, grieve, be angry, talk about betrayal, to fight inner demons, to be brave, to be nervous, to simply BE whoever you are. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience providing space for people to process whatever they are dealing with. People come to me with a wide range of different issues. I am an eclectic therapist but tend to focus on using cognitive behavioral therapy. I love to meet new people, and I would love to work with you.
Everyone needs a place for space. A space to be heard. A space to share whatever you want. A space to process feelings, try out new perspectives, laugh, cry, grieve, be angry, talk about betrayal, to fight inner demons, to be brave, to be nervous, to simply BE whoever you are. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience providing space for people to process whatever they are dealing with. People come to me with a wide range of different issues. I am an eclectic therapist but tend to focus on using cognitive behavioral therapy. I love to meet new people, and I would love to work with you.
![Photo of Ashlee Abney - Abney Coach and Consulting , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32645dcc-0c7d-446a-87ce-7a8602ef1577/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abney Coach and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fredericksburg, VA 22406 (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my Psychology Today Page! There are many therapists and coaches out there, but for us we start with providing support in the areas we never had it. Our why starts with support, and we end with love. This world can pull you in many directions, let us help you to see the light in your darkest moments. No more feeling alone, isolated or without hope. Contact us and let's get started with a life of more! We are Abney Coach & Consulting. Coach Abney with over 14 years of clinical social work experience in the private and public sectors.
Thank you for visiting my Psychology Today Page! There are many therapists and coaches out there, but for us we start with providing support in the areas we never had it. Our why starts with support, and we end with love. This world can pull you in many directions, let us help you to see the light in your darkest moments. No more feeling alone, isolated or without hope. Contact us and let's get started with a life of more! We are Abney Coach & Consulting. Coach Abney with over 14 years of clinical social work experience in the private and public sectors.
![Photo of Jessica Valner, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cec86ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
We are convinced we have a problem. We're focused on it, worried about it, and it often feels like it defines us. These problems tend to show up or worsen during life and relationship transitions. Attending to what isn't working, as well as being intentional about addressing these problems, is necessary for change. Easily overlooked though, are the jewels - the opportunities hiding behind those problems. Psychotherapy provides a safe space for growth opportunities - offering compassion to those parts of ourselves we don't like or shame us, while allowing for the fluidity, flexibility and movement required for transformations.
We are convinced we have a problem. We're focused on it, worried about it, and it often feels like it defines us. These problems tend to show up or worsen during life and relationship transitions. Attending to what isn't working, as well as being intentional about addressing these problems, is necessary for change. Easily overlooked though, are the jewels - the opportunities hiding behind those problems. Psychotherapy provides a safe space for growth opportunities - offering compassion to those parts of ourselves we don't like or shame us, while allowing for the fluidity, flexibility and movement required for transformations.
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Montpelier, VA
< 10
Therapists in Montpelier, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Montpelier, VA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Montpelier?
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
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.
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.
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.