Therapists in Nelson, VA
![Photo of Anne Oelrich, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9612eaa8-04c7-464f-b0f4-47b663678e52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I specialize in working with pre-teens, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, grief, body image, identity, sexuality and more. I have a special interest in working with members of the LGBTQ community. If you our your child is having a hard time with social pressure, adjusting to school or other transitions, sadness, managing daily stressors, and/or identity development, I would love to help.
Hi! I specialize in working with pre-teens, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, grief, body image, identity, sexuality and more. I have a special interest in working with members of the LGBTQ community. If you our your child is having a hard time with social pressure, adjusting to school or other transitions, sadness, managing daily stressors, and/or identity development, I would love to help.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Rachel Biesemeyer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b6b3a99-9967-49f5-9772-f39fc23923bb/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Rachel Biesemeyer, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from all walks of life. My approach to therapy is founded on building a solid therapeutic relationship and integrating coping skills that are practical and helpful with life's struggles. My client focus ranges from children, adolescents to adults from all walks of life. I have treated individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/shame, mood disorders, ADHD, and ODD.
Hello, my name is Rachel Biesemeyer, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from all walks of life. My approach to therapy is founded on building a solid therapeutic relationship and integrating coping skills that are practical and helpful with life's struggles. My client focus ranges from children, adolescents to adults from all walks of life. I have treated individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/shame, mood disorders, ADHD, and ODD.
![Photo of Kristen Joback, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5045dc6-2f7f-4226-bfbe-908fae00e0e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the commonwealth of Virginia, I have 15 years experience partnering with adults, children, couples, and families, seeking help with adjusting to life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues and long lasting mental health challenges. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I value a person-centered, collaborative and integrative approach to treatment.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the commonwealth of Virginia, I have 15 years experience partnering with adults, children, couples, and families, seeking help with adjusting to life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues and long lasting mental health challenges. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I value a person-centered, collaborative and integrative approach to treatment.
![Photo of Renee Tong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77c7bf37-ff64-4db8-8106-14d5ad521ce5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Renee Tong and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Compassion with integrity is the core of my practice. I honor the unique path of everyone that I work with, creating a safe place to produce changes that promote a better quality of life. I work with individuals from ages 18-100 from all walks of life dealing with life transition to mood disorders. My communication style cores a compassionate tone towards my clients in practice. "Happiness can be found in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn the light on." - Albus Dumbledore
Hello, my name is Renee Tong and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Compassion with integrity is the core of my practice. I honor the unique path of everyone that I work with, creating a safe place to produce changes that promote a better quality of life. I work with individuals from ages 18-100 from all walks of life dealing with life transition to mood disorders. My communication style cores a compassionate tone towards my clients in practice. "Happiness can be found in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn the light on." - Albus Dumbledore
![Photo of Richard Swaine, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/888fe86f-b646-4a05-ae54-25f224e817b1/1/320x400.png)
I have been a licensed professional counselor for over a decade, working with adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, mood disorders, relationship issues, and codependency. I focus on cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy to develop coping skills to help you move successfully to a full and happy life. I can help you develop mindfulness practices and tools to enhance your recovery.
I have been a licensed professional counselor for over a decade, working with adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, mood disorders, relationship issues, and codependency. I focus on cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy to develop coping skills to help you move successfully to a full and happy life. I can help you develop mindfulness practices and tools to enhance your recovery.
Rebecca Perkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Virgilina, VA 24598 (Online Only)
Welcome! It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life as well as to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and compassionate. I am a strong believer in treating all individuals with respect, sensitivity, and that mental health symptoms are not defining of the person. I utilize cognitive behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, rational-emotive counseling, and strength based empowerment approaches. I actively work in therapy sessions to meet your specific needs and help you arrive at insights.
Welcome! It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life as well as to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and compassionate. I am a strong believer in treating all individuals with respect, sensitivity, and that mental health symptoms are not defining of the person. I utilize cognitive behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, rational-emotive counseling, and strength based empowerment approaches. I actively work in therapy sessions to meet your specific needs and help you arrive at insights.
![Photo of Michael Asaku-Yeboah - Evolve Vocational Services LLC, MS, CRC, LCADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c6f95a8-2789-49f1-879a-801c35ac9eef/1/320x400.png)
Evolve Vocational Services LLC
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virgilina, VA 24598 (Online Only)
Are you managing a non-apparent disability (conditions that are not obvious to the on looker) and experiencing any of the following at work: Maintaining work expectations, productivity and meeting deadline? Struggling with executive functioning issues, such as focus & attention, organization & prioritization. Dealing with work stress that is impacting your personal life. Are you at risk of been placed on a performance improvement plan (PIP)or already placed on one and struggling to get off it? Are you neurodivergent and struggling with people understanding you and how you work? Are you exploring career change?
Are you managing a non-apparent disability (conditions that are not obvious to the on looker) and experiencing any of the following at work: Maintaining work expectations, productivity and meeting deadline? Struggling with executive functioning issues, such as focus & attention, organization & prioritization. Dealing with work stress that is impacting your personal life. Are you at risk of been placed on a performance improvement plan (PIP)or already placed on one and struggling to get off it? Are you neurodivergent and struggling with people understanding you and how you work? Are you exploring career change?
![Photo of Linda Barker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba9ae7e-d1fa-4b49-b668-58f7916dfe9d/1/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) serving clients throughout Virginia. I have worked in multiple areas of behavioral health and health care in the Richmond area for over twenty-five years. I work with adult clients in individual therapy and couples therapy. I work with adult clients, individually and in couples therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) serving clients throughout Virginia. I have worked in multiple areas of behavioral health and health care in the Richmond area for over twenty-five years. I work with adult clients in individual therapy and couples therapy. I work with adult clients, individually and in couples therapy.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Erika Brooks, MS, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83d81324-9d36-41cf-a12a-aed447e1008b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Brooks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23228
I provide sound therapeutic counseling and support to people who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse concerns. Using an ecclectic therapeutic approach, I will help you rediscover effective coping skills (and maybe learn new ones) to faces challenges and make change in your life. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults in an individual, family, or group setting. If you are ready to begin the journey, please call or email me.
I provide sound therapeutic counseling and support to people who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse concerns. Using an ecclectic therapeutic approach, I will help you rediscover effective coping skills (and maybe learn new ones) to faces challenges and make change in your life. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults in an individual, family, or group setting. If you are ready to begin the journey, please call or email me.
![Photo of Maria Rheba Estante, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2b3b933-27b4-4ad2-bf0d-c8206f779e41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Rheba Estante
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230 (Online Only)
Do you have intrusive thoughts that become distracting and disrupt your day? Do you feel compelled to perform certain acts or rituals to alleviate your anxiety? Have you experienced a traumatic event that still haunts you? Has the stress of moving to a new country impacted your well- being? Are you lonely and struggling in an unfamiliar environment? You can move beyond your struggles. Gain coping skills to manage your OCD, heal from trauma and thrive in your new home. Reach out now, I look forward to hearing your story. Clinical supervision for pre-licensed therapists in California. Professional Consultations for clinicians.
Do you have intrusive thoughts that become distracting and disrupt your day? Do you feel compelled to perform certain acts or rituals to alleviate your anxiety? Have you experienced a traumatic event that still haunts you? Has the stress of moving to a new country impacted your well- being? Are you lonely and struggling in an unfamiliar environment? You can move beyond your struggles. Gain coping skills to manage your OCD, heal from trauma and thrive in your new home. Reach out now, I look forward to hearing your story. Clinical supervision for pre-licensed therapists in California. Professional Consultations for clinicians.
![Photo of Virginia Haesler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd8c8040-33bc-48a1-89c9-14ff44d47570/1/320x400.jpeg)
Virginia Haesler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803 (Online Only)
If we share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive." -Brene Brown. Life is beautiful, fun and exciting, but...it is also difficult, traumatic, overwhelming, exhausting and incredibly challenging. Our anxiety sometimes gets the best of us and it's often hard to deal with the symptoms. You don't have to suffer from unbearable anxiety. Whether is manifests itself as panic, OCD, irritability, inability to focus, sleeplessness or fear, there is a way out. With education, self awareness and coping techniques you can find your way to a more manageable and peaceful life.
If we share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive." -Brene Brown. Life is beautiful, fun and exciting, but...it is also difficult, traumatic, overwhelming, exhausting and incredibly challenging. Our anxiety sometimes gets the best of us and it's often hard to deal with the symptoms. You don't have to suffer from unbearable anxiety. Whether is manifests itself as panic, OCD, irritability, inability to focus, sleeplessness or fear, there is a way out. With education, self awareness and coping techniques you can find your way to a more manageable and peaceful life.
![Photo of Lindsey Kirchmier, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce843075-6da2-4630-afba-e0c7564cc9e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Kirchmier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23236
Throughout our lives, we endure and overcome many obstacles. Each one provides growth opportunities, yet some leave us feeling broken, trying to put the pieces back together. Trauma has a profound effect on our internal system, impacting how we view and interact with the world. It may manifest in relational struggles, addiction, avoidant/risky behaviors, and various forms of self-sabotage, all hijacking our ability to live a self-actualized life. No matter the root of your trauma – developmental, single/multiple event trauma, or a mixture of all, healing is possible.
Throughout our lives, we endure and overcome many obstacles. Each one provides growth opportunities, yet some leave us feeling broken, trying to put the pieces back together. Trauma has a profound effect on our internal system, impacting how we view and interact with the world. It may manifest in relational struggles, addiction, avoidant/risky behaviors, and various forms of self-sabotage, all hijacking our ability to live a self-actualized life. No matter the root of your trauma – developmental, single/multiple event trauma, or a mixture of all, healing is possible.
![Photo of Sara Hill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffe45f3f-87f4-4bf1-8405-0b8de64037fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with eating, negative body thoughts or both? My name is Sarah and I help people improve their relationship with food right from the comfort of their home. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression and I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E).
Are you struggling with eating, negative body thoughts or both? My name is Sarah and I help people improve their relationship with food right from the comfort of their home. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression and I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E).
![Photo of Jing Yuan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/637c8009-91be-47b9-99ba-1f12d5536745/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to care for your mental health! Although I don’t know what you are going through, I’m convinced that you are ready to take more control of your life. It will be my honor to work alongside you during this meaningful journey.
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to care for your mental health! Although I don’t know what you are going through, I’m convinced that you are ready to take more control of your life. It will be my honor to work alongside you during this meaningful journey.
![Photo of Richara Monique Shepperson-Turner - Healing 180, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31b4c17f-e50b-4bb6-b54e-98a9b6c68740/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our ideal client recognizes that they are not living authentically and are motivated to unveil and address the deep-rooted issues hindering their personal growth. Our clients may struggle with a variety of issues, ranging from unresolved trauma and relationship challenges to pervasive feelings of anxiety, depression, or low self-worth. Their goals extend beyond symptom relief; they aspire to achieve profound alignment and fulfillment in their lives. They want to break free from the shackles of past traumas and limiting beliefs, reclaiming their power and autonomy.
Our ideal client recognizes that they are not living authentically and are motivated to unveil and address the deep-rooted issues hindering their personal growth. Our clients may struggle with a variety of issues, ranging from unresolved trauma and relationship challenges to pervasive feelings of anxiety, depression, or low self-worth. Their goals extend beyond symptom relief; they aspire to achieve profound alignment and fulfillment in their lives. They want to break free from the shackles of past traumas and limiting beliefs, reclaiming their power and autonomy.
![Photo of Rachel Lim, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/247959a3-23ea-4c6f-a42d-9dac341d434e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm Lim, a Supervisee in Social Work with a passion for empowering individuals from all walks of life and a particular interest in supporting at-risk youth in navigating challenges around coming of age. My personal experiences have equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by diverse communities. I am committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and empathetic space for clients to explore their mental health and well-being. I believe in a client-centered approach, where we work together to set and achieve your personal goals toward emotional well-being and personal growth.
Hello! I'm Lim, a Supervisee in Social Work with a passion for empowering individuals from all walks of life and a particular interest in supporting at-risk youth in navigating challenges around coming of age. My personal experiences have equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by diverse communities. I am committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and empathetic space for clients to explore their mental health and well-being. I believe in a client-centered approach, where we work together to set and achieve your personal goals toward emotional well-being and personal growth.
![Photo of Melissa Futreal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/802cae27-aeb8-4cd3-978c-b96e3aa3656e/1/320x400.png)
I began helping others in 1990 as a Peer Counselor (Drug Exemption NCO) while on active duty in the Marine Corps. After earning degrees in Psychology and Social Work at UNCW/ECU, I obtained licensure to practice independently with the Virginia Board of Health Professionals in 2004. I am originally from the Hampton Roads area but have worked internationally with people from many different backgrounds. I have continued to support the military, as well as the community at large, for over 3 decades with evidence-based treatments for trauma (PTSD).
I began helping others in 1990 as a Peer Counselor (Drug Exemption NCO) while on active duty in the Marine Corps. After earning degrees in Psychology and Social Work at UNCW/ECU, I obtained licensure to practice independently with the Virginia Board of Health Professionals in 2004. I am originally from the Hampton Roads area but have worked internationally with people from many different backgrounds. I have continued to support the military, as well as the community at large, for over 3 decades with evidence-based treatments for trauma (PTSD).
![Photo of Leon Sankofa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a58564e0-dfc8-43a2-9226-c5120288e779/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m a licensed clinical social worker and a trained psychotherapist. I am licensed to practice in Virginia and Texas. I help clients resolve symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic, stress disorder‘s, and childhood sexual trauma.
Hi, I’m a licensed clinical social worker and a trained psychotherapist. I am licensed to practice in Virginia and Texas. I help clients resolve symptoms of anxiety, depression, posttraumatic, stress disorder‘s, and childhood sexual trauma.
![Photo of Trevor Ryne Gobble, LMHP-R, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c863f428-b79a-4b16-9fdf-a6929b5cd13c/1/320x400.png)
As a resident counselor I aim to provide person-centered therapy that is focused on building rapport with the client to ensure that they feel heard and validated. I also deliver evidence based practices when necessary to ensure that the therapy being provided is safe & ethical above all else. Counseling should be tailored to the individual's needs, and I will work with anyone to help develop a treatment plan that meets those needs adequately.
As a resident counselor I aim to provide person-centered therapy that is focused on building rapport with the client to ensure that they feel heard and validated. I also deliver evidence based practices when necessary to ensure that the therapy being provided is safe & ethical above all else. Counseling should be tailored to the individual's needs, and I will work with anyone to help develop a treatment plan that meets those needs adequately.
![Photo of Kiyana Horton, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63713347-85f8-4dff-a8ae-e7a00bb48438/3/320x400.png)
Kiyana Horton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
South Hill, VA 23970 (Online Only)
For over 13 years I have provided individual and group psychotherapy to graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Michigan as well as in private practice with adults. I have extensive experience working with clients on a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma related issues, and substance use. As an ordained Interfaith Minister, my interests also include spirituality and religious concerns, family of origin issues, sexual orientation concerns, relationship difficulties, and cross-cultural/multicultural issues. I am committed to working with marginalized and underrepresented populations.
For over 13 years I have provided individual and group psychotherapy to graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Michigan as well as in private practice with adults. I have extensive experience working with clients on a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma related issues, and substance use. As an ordained Interfaith Minister, my interests also include spirituality and religious concerns, family of origin issues, sexual orientation concerns, relationship difficulties, and cross-cultural/multicultural issues. I am committed to working with marginalized and underrepresented populations.
Nearby Searches for Nelson
See More TherapistsHow does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Nelson, VA
< 10
Therapists in Nelson, VA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Grief |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
2 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Therapists in Nelson, VA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Nelson?
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.