Therapists in Waxhaw, NC

Photo of Laura Handley, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Laura Handley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173
I have a passion for helping people and in the therapeutic space I strive to provide a warm and supportive environment for children, adolescents, adults and couples to navigate all phases of life. I believe that healthy relationships are often the key to improved mental health. I also have training in perinatal mood disorders through Postpartum Support International. I enjoy working with individuals and families through the perinatal journey, from family planning, to pregnancy, postpartum, and overall family adjustment during this time.
I have a passion for helping people and in the therapeutic space I strive to provide a warm and supportive environment for children, adolescents, adults and couples to navigate all phases of life. I believe that healthy relationships are often the key to improved mental health. I also have training in perinatal mood disorders through Postpartum Support International. I enjoy working with individuals and families through the perinatal journey, from family planning, to pregnancy, postpartum, and overall family adjustment during this time.
(980) 261-3453 View (980) 261-3453
Photo of Allison Whaley McLaurin, MEd, NCC, LCMHC
Allison Whaley McLaurin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Waitlist for new clients
I am a believer in the human experience and normalizing the suffering that is a part of that experience. I do not take a pathological approach to individuals' mental health. I believe you will suffer within your lifetime and that we can work together to build your capacity for resilience. That being said I understand that some individuals have a chemical imbalance, or may experience psychosis if that is the case we can work together to take the proper steps for your health. Presently I work with children from ages six and up as well as adults.
I am a believer in the human experience and normalizing the suffering that is a part of that experience. I do not take a pathological approach to individuals' mental health. I believe you will suffer within your lifetime and that we can work together to build your capacity for resilience. That being said I understand that some individuals have a chemical imbalance, or may experience psychosis if that is the case we can work together to take the proper steps for your health. Presently I work with children from ages six and up as well as adults.
(704) 703-3162 View (704) 703-3162
Photo of Brenda Louise Puckett, LCMHC, Counselor
Brenda Louise Puckett
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173
I am a Generalist, working with children adolescents, individuals, couples and families. I use a CBT approach, with Christ-centered focus with scripture and prayer. Trauma healing and transformation are essential in my practice.
I am a Generalist, working with children adolescents, individuals, couples and families. I use a CBT approach, with Christ-centered focus with scripture and prayer. Trauma healing and transformation are essential in my practice.
(704) 385-4121 View (704) 385-4121
Photo of Neil Sanchez, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Neil Sanchez
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Hello! I’m Neil, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) willing to help you navigate life’s challenges! As a bilingual (English/Spanish) counselor, I bring a wealth of experience in supporting adolescents, men, and teenagers dealing with a range of mental health concerns, including addiction, trauma, bullying, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I use various therapeutic approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Art Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Mindfulness. My diverse skill set ensures that I adjust my approach to meet your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful personal growth.
Hello! I’m Neil, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) willing to help you navigate life’s challenges! As a bilingual (English/Spanish) counselor, I bring a wealth of experience in supporting adolescents, men, and teenagers dealing with a range of mental health concerns, including addiction, trauma, bullying, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I use various therapeutic approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Art Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Mindfulness. My diverse skill set ensures that I adjust my approach to meet your unique needs and help you achieve meaningful personal growth.
(704) 666-8235 View (704) 666-8235
Photo of Kara C Mild, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara C Mild
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173
I’m Dr. Kara Mild and I believe in the inherent worth and potential of every individual. My approach to healing is grounded in the principles of humanistic therapy, where empathy, genuine understanding, and unconditional positive regard are the cornerstones of our work together. Life can sometimes make us feel misunderstood, isolated, or unheard. These feelings can stem from various experiences—whether it's from our relationships, our past, or simply the challenges of daily life. In our therapeutic journey, my goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions.
I’m Dr. Kara Mild and I believe in the inherent worth and potential of every individual. My approach to healing is grounded in the principles of humanistic therapy, where empathy, genuine understanding, and unconditional positive regard are the cornerstones of our work together. Life can sometimes make us feel misunderstood, isolated, or unheard. These feelings can stem from various experiences—whether it's from our relationships, our past, or simply the challenges of daily life. In our therapeutic journey, my goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions.
(980) 220-4111 View (980) 220-4111
Photo of Caroline Sampsell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Sampsell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about helping women. Society has high expectations of us as women and we face these pressures daily. Let’s also get real for a minute... We pressure ourselves with being perfect and then torment inside when it's not possible. We drain ourself out and forget that we also need to take care of ourselves and sometimes that means our trauma too. Whether it is low self-esteem with a loud internal critic, not knowing how to identify your needs, or a traumatic experience in your way, I will help you figure out what you need moving forward to enjoy life. YOU are worth it!
I am passionate about helping women. Society has high expectations of us as women and we face these pressures daily. Let’s also get real for a minute... We pressure ourselves with being perfect and then torment inside when it's not possible. We drain ourself out and forget that we also need to take care of ourselves and sometimes that means our trauma too. Whether it is low self-esteem with a loud internal critic, not knowing how to identify your needs, or a traumatic experience in your way, I will help you figure out what you need moving forward to enjoy life. YOU are worth it!
(704) 703-7204 View (704) 703-7204
Photo of Amanda G. Fink Qualified Supervisor And Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, CMC, QS, Counselor
Amanda G. Fink Qualified Supervisor And Counselor
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, CMC, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173  (Online Only)
Availability for Clients and Supervisees! Do you feel like you're falling short of your own goals? Are you struggling in relationships? A Better You Counseling and Coaching Center is offering Tele-Therapy sessions for clients and Supervisees! (Inquire about Walk and Talk Therapy.) Do you relate to the following: relationship issues, life goal questions, situational & life adjustments, anxiety, grief, or depression? Veteran or Military family member? Your time and resources are valuable. Get in touch with us!
Availability for Clients and Supervisees! Do you feel like you're falling short of your own goals? Are you struggling in relationships? A Better You Counseling and Coaching Center is offering Tele-Therapy sessions for clients and Supervisees! (Inquire about Walk and Talk Therapy.) Do you relate to the following: relationship issues, life goal questions, situational & life adjustments, anxiety, grief, or depression? Veteran or Military family member? Your time and resources are valuable. Get in touch with us!
(980) 400-3444 View (980) 400-3444
Photo of Christine Allen, MA, LCMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Do you or your daughter struggle with anxiety? Depression? What about all the life stressors from this last year? Do you want a safe place for your adolescent daughter to share her struggles without judgment but with acceptance? Do you need a place to come and work things out with a trusting, interested and supportive person? As the human race, we have had many losses and stressors over the last year, and it’s okay to reach out for support and help.
Do you or your daughter struggle with anxiety? Depression? What about all the life stressors from this last year? Do you want a safe place for your adolescent daughter to share her struggles without judgment but with acceptance? Do you need a place to come and work things out with a trusting, interested and supportive person? As the human race, we have had many losses and stressors over the last year, and it’s okay to reach out for support and help.
(980) 575-1470 View (980) 575-1470
Photo of Dr. Connie Perkins - Perkins Counseling & Consulting, LLC, DSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Perkins Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173
I am happy to know that you are reaching out for help with the problems you may be facing with anxiety, depression, stress or any other difficulties that are causing challenges in your life. My hope in working together is to help you to get some relief from the intensity of your emotional distress and to ease some of your symptoms by teaching you some skills so you can feel better. Identifying your strengths and resources will allow you to enhance the healthy coping skills you already possess so you can live the quality of life you desire.
I am happy to know that you are reaching out for help with the problems you may be facing with anxiety, depression, stress or any other difficulties that are causing challenges in your life. My hope in working together is to help you to get some relief from the intensity of your emotional distress and to ease some of your symptoms by teaching you some skills so you can feel better. Identifying your strengths and resources will allow you to enhance the healthy coping skills you already possess so you can live the quality of life you desire.
(704) 237-6584 View (704) 237-6584
Photo of Dionysios Kakouras, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dionysios Kakouras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
I became interested in psychotherapy in my young adult years, as I searched for meaning in life. With a primary interest in medicine, I knew that my ultimate goal was to help others. It was during my own personal experience with therapy that I came to really value relationships with people and the power of the psychotherapy space. I believe that transformative change occurs simply by genuinely existing with another person.
I became interested in psychotherapy in my young adult years, as I searched for meaning in life. With a primary interest in medicine, I knew that my ultimate goal was to help others. It was during my own personal experience with therapy that I came to really value relationships with people and the power of the psychotherapy space. I believe that transformative change occurs simply by genuinely existing with another person.
(980) 372-6121 View (980) 372-6121
Photo of Lindsey Walburn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Walburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Lindsey and I specialize in perinatal maternal mental health. Transitioning into motherhood brings a mixture of emotions and I help women navigate these both during pregnancy and postpartum. Postpartum anxiety, depression, rage or even just mom guilt can feel debilitating and isolating. Therapy is a great place to feel supported and navigate these emotions so you can be the best version of yourself for you and your baby. People talk all of the time about finding “your village” in motherhood. Therapy is an integral piece to that village so you can be the kind of parent you’ve always dreamed of being.
Hi, I’m Lindsey and I specialize in perinatal maternal mental health. Transitioning into motherhood brings a mixture of emotions and I help women navigate these both during pregnancy and postpartum. Postpartum anxiety, depression, rage or even just mom guilt can feel debilitating and isolating. Therapy is a great place to feel supported and navigate these emotions so you can be the best version of yourself for you and your baby. People talk all of the time about finding “your village” in motherhood. Therapy is an integral piece to that village so you can be the kind of parent you’ve always dreamed of being.
(704) 610-6523 View (704) 610-6523
Photo of Krista Sabbagh, LCMHCA, Counselor
Krista Sabbagh
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Those who consider themselves highly sensitive and often feel misunderstood can expect space to develop a better understanding of their experience and utilize the gift of high sensitivity. Being highly sensitive in today's world can feel more difficult than ever, however, it also provides the opportunity for immense growth and purpose. If you are looking to explore the inclusion of spiritual/faith-based beliefs and principles into your therapeutic journey, you have come to the right place.
Those who consider themselves highly sensitive and often feel misunderstood can expect space to develop a better understanding of their experience and utilize the gift of high sensitivity. Being highly sensitive in today's world can feel more difficult than ever, however, it also provides the opportunity for immense growth and purpose. If you are looking to explore the inclusion of spiritual/faith-based beliefs and principles into your therapeutic journey, you have come to the right place.
(704) 610-5470 View (704) 610-5470
Photo of Aldi Gaines, LCMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aldi Gaines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
My journey towards becoming a healer began in 2009 with a vision of creating a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space for navigating life's challenges using a holistic approach to wellness. I am passionate about empowering women and their families to create more fulfilling relationships and meaningful lives.
My journey towards becoming a healer began in 2009 with a vision of creating a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space for navigating life's challenges using a holistic approach to wellness. I am passionate about empowering women and their families to create more fulfilling relationships and meaningful lives.
(704) 748-0735 View (704) 748-0735
Photo of Laura Mosedale, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Mosedale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive experience that meets the needs you bring with you into this space. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (in NC, SC, CA, & FL), specializing in trauma, anxiety & depression, and chemical dependency – and in the places where these often intersect. I use a goal-directed approach to therapy, because I want you to feel like your investment is creating tangible results. (And if you’re not sure what your goals are, I am here to help discern them with you). This typically involves a combination of evidence-based treatment, supportive counseling, and foundational cognitive/behavioral skills.
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive experience that meets the needs you bring with you into this space. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (in NC, SC, CA, & FL), specializing in trauma, anxiety & depression, and chemical dependency – and in the places where these often intersect. I use a goal-directed approach to therapy, because I want you to feel like your investment is creating tangible results. (And if you’re not sure what your goals are, I am here to help discern them with you). This typically involves a combination of evidence-based treatment, supportive counseling, and foundational cognitive/behavioral skills.
(704) 761-7401 View (704) 761-7401
Photo of Brooke Hutto, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brooke Hutto
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Is life unmanageable? Are you sad, hopeless, fearful? Are you struggling in your relationships? Does life feel meaningless and purposeless? In life, we all face seasons of suffering, and I would love the opportunity to come alongside you in that season. We are not meant to do life alone and sometimes we need some extra support to help us gain skills for coping or relating to ourselves and others. In my practice, my goal is to help you gain mental health that will impact all the other areas of your life for good.
Is life unmanageable? Are you sad, hopeless, fearful? Are you struggling in your relationships? Does life feel meaningless and purposeless? In life, we all face seasons of suffering, and I would love the opportunity to come alongside you in that season. We are not meant to do life alone and sometimes we need some extra support to help us gain skills for coping or relating to ourselves and others. In my practice, my goal is to help you gain mental health that will impact all the other areas of your life for good.
(704) 422-4574 x102 View (704) 422-4574 x102
Photo of Jennifer Quade, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Quade
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, unsupported, disconnected, or out of balance in your life? You are not alone, and you are capable of learning new ways to manage life stressors to move towards happiness and growth. Whether you are struggling with addiction, have relationship issues, are overwhelmed with anxiety, or are stuck in depression, you can learn to free yourself from distress by managing negative thoughts and emotions, engaging in healthy communication, and setting boundaries that protect and support you and those you care about.
Do you feel stuck, unsupported, disconnected, or out of balance in your life? You are not alone, and you are capable of learning new ways to manage life stressors to move towards happiness and growth. Whether you are struggling with addiction, have relationship issues, are overwhelmed with anxiety, or are stuck in depression, you can learn to free yourself from distress by managing negative thoughts and emotions, engaging in healthy communication, and setting boundaries that protect and support you and those you care about.
(704) 200-9553 View (704) 200-9553
Photo of Dr. Jenny Pierre-Renville, DHA, NCC, LPC
Dr. Jenny Pierre-Renville
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, DHA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Waxhaw, NC 28173
A journey of a thousand miles begin with a single step. Sometimes taking the initial step can be the most challenging thing we do. Congratulations! You’ve taken your first step. As you begin to honor your needs please allow me to walk with you during your wellness journey. I combine clinical skill with compassion to help people of diverse backgrounds reclaim their joy. I help navigate unique situations to restore mind, body, and spirit balance. A successful therapeutic relationship is about building a rapport based on trust. I help to ease emotional burdens and provide a safe and special sanctuary for clients to be themselves.
A journey of a thousand miles begin with a single step. Sometimes taking the initial step can be the most challenging thing we do. Congratulations! You’ve taken your first step. As you begin to honor your needs please allow me to walk with you during your wellness journey. I combine clinical skill with compassion to help people of diverse backgrounds reclaim their joy. I help navigate unique situations to restore mind, body, and spirit balance. A successful therapeutic relationship is about building a rapport based on trust. I help to ease emotional burdens and provide a safe and special sanctuary for clients to be themselves.
(704) 396-8685 View (704) 396-8685
Photo of Cyd McDaniel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cyd McDaniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
Are you ready to take a deep dive into your life and address what's holding you back from living your whole life? Does it seem like something is missing? Do you feel depressed, anxious or just numb? What do you believe about your life and the people in your life? If you are ready to lean in and feel better, consider psychotherapy. These sessions are custom designed based on your goals. If what you're doing isn't working and you're ready to try something different, let's get started. Immediate opening for Monday's & Friday's
Are you ready to take a deep dive into your life and address what's holding you back from living your whole life? Does it seem like something is missing? Do you feel depressed, anxious or just numb? What do you believe about your life and the people in your life? If you are ready to lean in and feel better, consider psychotherapy. These sessions are custom designed based on your goals. If what you're doing isn't working and you're ready to try something different, let's get started. Immediate opening for Monday's & Friday's
(980) 268-2367 View (980) 268-2367
Photo of Erica Barton, LPC
Erica Barton
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
We are all faced with the challenges through the journey of finding purpose, fulfillment and identity.  You might feel like you are being stretched in a million different directions right now.  Maybe you are having difficulty making the "right" decision about your job, your friendships, or your romantic relationships.  Perhaps stress, anxiety or depression is getting in the way of bringing your true self to your interactions and performance. If you've found yourself reading through this page, then perhaps there is a part of you that is ready to explore a different way of living. And yes, it is possible.
We are all faced with the challenges through the journey of finding purpose, fulfillment and identity.  You might feel like you are being stretched in a million different directions right now.  Maybe you are having difficulty making the "right" decision about your job, your friendships, or your romantic relationships.  Perhaps stress, anxiety or depression is getting in the way of bringing your true self to your interactions and performance. If you've found yourself reading through this page, then perhaps there is a part of you that is ready to explore a different way of living. And yes, it is possible.
(704) 396-4262 View (704) 396-4262
Photo of Julie C Sandoval - Julie C. Sandoval, LCSW, Teletherapy for NC & SC, MSW, LCSW, LISW CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie C. Sandoval, LCSW, Teletherapy for NC & SC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Bilingual Spanish/English and Bicultural therapist experienced in working with a variety of individuals and couples struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, and life transitions/adjustments. I have a particular area of interest and additional training in couples treatment, relational/family problems, and solution focused strategies.
I am a Bilingual Spanish/English and Bicultural therapist experienced in working with a variety of individuals and couples struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, and life transitions/adjustments. I have a particular area of interest and additional training in couples treatment, relational/family problems, and solution focused strategies.
(704) 750-8268 View (704) 750-8268
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Waxhaw, NC

100+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Waxhaw, NC who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
68% Stress
66% Coping Skills
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
87% BlueCross and BlueShield
52% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Waxhaw, NC see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Waxhaw?

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.