Therapists in Bruceton Mills, WV

Photo of Speaking Life Instilling Hope Counseling Services - Amber Johnson, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Speaking Life Instilling Hope Counseling Services - Amber Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Bruceton Mills, WV 26525
I provide individual, couples, or family counseling in order to help facilitate change, healing, and restoration. An ideal client is one who is struggling in life but willing to be open and honest. As your counselor I will listen to you without judgement, hear your story, and learn about the experiences that have impacted who you are. I am looking for clients who want to become the best version of themselves and will work with me to accomplish that. Counseling is similar to life in that it is not always easy and painless, but as your counselor I will be here to walk alongside you in this journey.
I provide individual, couples, or family counseling in order to help facilitate change, healing, and restoration. An ideal client is one who is struggling in life but willing to be open and honest. As your counselor I will listen to you without judgement, hear your story, and learn about the experiences that have impacted who you are. I am looking for clients who want to become the best version of themselves and will work with me to accomplish that. Counseling is similar to life in that it is not always easy and painless, but as your counselor I will be here to walk alongside you in this journey.
(304) 301-5504 View (304) 301-5504
Photo of Renee Bair - Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia, Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia
Counselor
Verified Verified
Bruceton Mills, WV 26525
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(304) 449-8592 View (304) 449-8592

Online Therapists

Tim Lloyd Vaughn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
My goal in counseling each individual is to help them feel and get better. I have been working with children and adolescents in this field for over 20 years in areas such as ADHD, Autism, anxiety, and behavior issues as well as struggles in the family unit. In addition to this, I work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and life stressors who want to improve their moods and make positive life changes for themselves.
My goal in counseling each individual is to help them feel and get better. I have been working with children and adolescents in this field for over 20 years in areas such as ADHD, Autism, anxiety, and behavior issues as well as struggles in the family unit. In addition to this, I work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and life stressors who want to improve their moods and make positive life changes for themselves.
(681) 201-4427 View (681) 201-4427
Photo of Dave Myers - New Horizons Counseling Services, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Horizons Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
Waitlist for new clients
"Maturity is not the absence of struggle, but struggling well" said author and psychologist Larry Crabb. As a counselor I desire to safely engage with clients' stories-which include both joy and struggle-and work together towards hopeful and lasting change. With over 25 years' experience helping people improve relationships and marriages, confront depression and anxiety, or face emotional and mental health issues, I strive to help clients pursue personal growth and relational integrity as they face life's challenges.
"Maturity is not the absence of struggle, but struggling well" said author and psychologist Larry Crabb. As a counselor I desire to safely engage with clients' stories-which include both joy and struggle-and work together towards hopeful and lasting change. With over 25 years' experience helping people improve relationships and marriages, confront depression and anxiety, or face emotional and mental health issues, I strive to help clients pursue personal growth and relational integrity as they face life's challenges.
(304) 591-1919 View (304) 591-1919
Photo of Julie Varney, FNP-C, MSN
Julie Varney
FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, WV 26807  (Online Only)
Julie Varney, a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C, MSN), holds an esteemed accreditation from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Across a span of over 19 years, Julie has accumulated a wealth of experience in diverse patient care settings, ranging from acute care to outpatient environments. Julie's extensive experience extends into the realms of mental health and addiction recovery. She utilizes competency-based approaches to treat patients with Opioid, Alcohol, and other substance use disorders.
Julie Varney, a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C, MSN), holds an esteemed accreditation from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. Across a span of over 19 years, Julie has accumulated a wealth of experience in diverse patient care settings, ranging from acute care to outpatient environments. Julie's extensive experience extends into the realms of mental health and addiction recovery. She utilizes competency-based approaches to treat patients with Opioid, Alcohol, and other substance use disorders.
(540) 513-5285 View (540) 513-5285
Photo of Kiley R Brescoach, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiley R Brescoach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fairmont, WV 26554  (Online Only)
If you have anxiety, depression or are struggling with balancing new life adjustments such as parenting, motherhood, or college- I want to help you identify barriers and evaluate how to navigate these more positively. My approach is direct, yet kind- I try to give that nudge we all need in some way, to help you journey your path toward your goals. I have found that working with those who struggle with anxiety, & depression often finding balance within daily systems, routines and presence can help reduce worry and fear. It can be so hard to reach out for help, but I want to emphasize no struggle is too small, let's take care of it!
If you have anxiety, depression or are struggling with balancing new life adjustments such as parenting, motherhood, or college- I want to help you identify barriers and evaluate how to navigate these more positively. My approach is direct, yet kind- I try to give that nudge we all need in some way, to help you journey your path toward your goals. I have found that working with those who struggle with anxiety, & depression often finding balance within daily systems, routines and presence can help reduce worry and fear. It can be so hard to reach out for help, but I want to emphasize no struggle is too small, let's take care of it!
(304) 467-4386 View (304) 467-4386
Photo of Amber Snyder, LICSW, AADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, AADC
Verified Verified
Masontown, WV 26542
Seeking help during times of loneliness, isolation, stress or discomfort can be overwhelming and challenging.. I’m glad you’re here. I provide a compassionate space just for that, a place for clients to share their experiences, feelings, and to be their most authentic self.
Seeking help during times of loneliness, isolation, stress or discomfort can be overwhelming and challenging.. I’m glad you’re here. I provide a compassionate space just for that, a place for clients to share their experiences, feelings, and to be their most authentic self.
(304) 486-3201 View (304) 486-3201
Photo of Laura Manuel Walls, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Manuel Walls
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26505
Emotional or behavioral challenges during childhood and adolescence can be very disruptive to not only the child but the whole family. I provide therapy services during evenings and weekends so that my clients don't have to miss school and to accommodate parents' busy schedules. I have experience helping children and families develop effective coping skills quickly and get the balanced, happy life they deserve.
Emotional or behavioral challenges during childhood and adolescence can be very disruptive to not only the child but the whole family. I provide therapy services during evenings and weekends so that my clients don't have to miss school and to accommodate parents' busy schedules. I have experience helping children and families develop effective coping skills quickly and get the balanced, happy life they deserve.
(304) 713-2622 View (304) 713-2622
Photo of Kayla Grogg Meador - Unbound Counseling LLC, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Unbound Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26505
At Unbound Counseling, we provide telehealth and in-person individual counseling for children, adolescents, and adults. All races, ethnicities, genders, religious/spiritual beliefs, bodies & sexual orientations welcome. Therapy can be a space to uncover new ways to navigate challenging situations, to find support, or to better understand your emotions.
At Unbound Counseling, we provide telehealth and in-person individual counseling for children, adolescents, and adults. All races, ethnicities, genders, religious/spiritual beliefs, bodies & sexual orientations welcome. Therapy can be a space to uncover new ways to navigate challenging situations, to find support, or to better understand your emotions.
(304) 600-7172 View (304) 600-7172
Photo of Lya Burgess, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lya Burgess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Williamstown, WV 26187
Lya is a graduate of WVU and has a MSW with a mental health emphasis. She is independently licensed as an LICSW in WV and LISW in OH, and has 28 years of experience as a therapist. She sees clients ages 10 and up for individual and family therapy, and does see younger children on a case by case basis. Her clinical areas of focus are anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, eating disorders, and ADHD. Additionally, Lya helps bariatric surgery patients both pre- and post-surgery. In her free time, Lya enjoys working with her show horses and her two dogs, Josie and Rudy. You may see Rudy on camera, as he is her assistant!
Lya is a graduate of WVU and has a MSW with a mental health emphasis. She is independently licensed as an LICSW in WV and LISW in OH, and has 28 years of experience as a therapist. She sees clients ages 10 and up for individual and family therapy, and does see younger children on a case by case basis. Her clinical areas of focus are anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief, eating disorders, and ADHD. Additionally, Lya helps bariatric surgery patients both pre- and post-surgery. In her free time, Lya enjoys working with her show horses and her two dogs, Josie and Rudy. You may see Rudy on camera, as he is her assistant!
(304) 991-8399 View (304) 991-8399
Photo of Sheli Bernstein-Goff, MSW, LICSW, CTS, CFS, DAAETS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheli Bernstein-Goff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CTS, CFS, DAAETS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508  (Online Only)
I strongly believe that everyone is unique and everyone’s story is unique; therefore, different approaches are essential in working with a wide variety of people. I am a true believer in the concept of “words shape beliefs” and, in that vein, saying “I do not know” or “please help” are powerful words since vulnerability often leads to growth and healing. One of my favorite quotes is by Viktor Frankl who said "When we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves."
I strongly believe that everyone is unique and everyone’s story is unique; therefore, different approaches are essential in working with a wide variety of people. I am a true believer in the concept of “words shape beliefs” and, in that vein, saying “I do not know” or “please help” are powerful words since vulnerability often leads to growth and healing. One of my favorite quotes is by Viktor Frankl who said "When we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves."
(304) 403-7124 View (304) 403-7124
Photo of Elisa Marie McDonald - Mountain State Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor
Mountain State Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Weirton, WV 26062
Waitlist for new clients
Our mission at Mountain State Counseling and Behavioral Health Services, is to provide a safe and non-judgemental space for our clients to begin their personal journey of improving emotional well-being. Our philosophy is based on Person-Centered principles: genuineness and congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding. We strive to empower our clients to recognize their strengths and self-worth, as they are working toward achieving their full potential and symptom management.
Our mission at Mountain State Counseling and Behavioral Health Services, is to provide a safe and non-judgemental space for our clients to begin their personal journey of improving emotional well-being. Our philosophy is based on Person-Centered principles: genuineness and congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding. We strive to empower our clients to recognize their strengths and self-worth, as they are working toward achieving their full potential and symptom management.
(304) 902-6242 View (304) 902-6242
Photo of Cindy Learn, LCPC, NCC, LPC, Counselor
Cindy Learn
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
Do you feel unsettled, out of balance, or like you don't have a voice? Are you at a crossroads in your life and not sure which path to take? In the safety of my office, I help clients find their balance, gain insight, make intentional changes, heal and grow - as individuals and in relationships. I have found that empowering clients with practical strategies to incorporate into their daily living while supporting clients in doing the deeper work of increasing their understanding of themselves and their partners (for clients in couples counseling), ultimately leads to the most meaningful changes.
Do you feel unsettled, out of balance, or like you don't have a voice? Are you at a crossroads in your life and not sure which path to take? In the safety of my office, I help clients find their balance, gain insight, make intentional changes, heal and grow - as individuals and in relationships. I have found that empowering clients with practical strategies to incorporate into their daily living while supporting clients in doing the deeper work of increasing their understanding of themselves and their partners (for clients in couples counseling), ultimately leads to the most meaningful changes.
(304) 337-5508 View (304) 337-5508
Photo of Angela Harris, LCSW, CEDS, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenville, WV 26351  (Online Only)
I have a therapeutic focus in the areas of eating disorders including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED), disordered eating, compulsive exercise and body image concerns. I also work with self esteem concerns, depression, anxiety, process and substance use disorders, coping skills, trauma, and PTSD. I specialize in treating adolescents and adults. My goal is to empower you to write the next chapter of your life.
I have a therapeutic focus in the areas of eating disorders including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED), disordered eating, compulsive exercise and body image concerns. I also work with self esteem concerns, depression, anxiety, process and substance use disorders, coping skills, trauma, and PTSD. I specialize in treating adolescents and adults. My goal is to empower you to write the next chapter of your life.
(304) 576-6310 View (304) 576-6310
Photo of Renee Bair - Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of West Virginia
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Wellsburg, WV 26070  (Online Only)
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawv.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawv.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(681) 263-6272 View (681) 263-6272
Photo of Amy E Zeiders, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy E Zeiders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgantown, WV 26508
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a safe and compassionate space where clients can be themselves and truly share their story with me. We all have unhelpful thoughts/coping strategies/emotional patterns that we pick up along the way that may have helped us adapt in the past but have kept us from growing. I utilize my client’s strengths to help them find their voice and empower them to make the changes to achieve the life they want. I have years of experience in helping people with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues as well as everyday life stressors and challenges.
I provide a safe and compassionate space where clients can be themselves and truly share their story with me. We all have unhelpful thoughts/coping strategies/emotional patterns that we pick up along the way that may have helped us adapt in the past but have kept us from growing. I utilize my client’s strengths to help them find their voice and empower them to make the changes to achieve the life they want. I have years of experience in helping people with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues as well as everyday life stressors and challenges.
(304) 759-8055 View (304) 759-8055
Photo of Denise Tonkin, LPC, MBA, ALPS, CMHIMP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Tonkin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MBA, ALPS, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26501  (Online Only)
Life can be unexpected and sometimes even difficult - for all of us. I have a women's practice based out of West Virginia and provide telehealth services throughout the state and beyond. It is a privilege to meet my clients and provide encouragement, clinical guidance, discipleship as desired and general support. I've had the privilege of providing therapy for 20+ years through many different walks of life.
Life can be unexpected and sometimes even difficult - for all of us. I have a women's practice based out of West Virginia and provide telehealth services throughout the state and beyond. It is a privilege to meet my clients and provide encouragement, clinical guidance, discipleship as desired and general support. I've had the privilege of providing therapy for 20+ years through many different walks of life.
(304) 464-9651 View (304) 464-9651
Photo of Anna G Hrafnsdottir, LICSW, CTT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna G Hrafnsdottir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CTT
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26508
Welcome to my page. I'm Anna, a certified trauma therapist at Natural Resilience in Morgantown, WV. My therapeutic approach focuses on empowerment and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, healing, comfortable and accepting environment for my clients. I believe that you are the expert in your own life and my job as a therapist is to guide you through your healing journey utilizing evidence based methods such as EMDR and CBT, to help you heal and restore balance and positive outlook in your life.
Welcome to my page. I'm Anna, a certified trauma therapist at Natural Resilience in Morgantown, WV. My therapeutic approach focuses on empowerment and collaboration. I strive to create a safe, healing, comfortable and accepting environment for my clients. I believe that you are the expert in your own life and my job as a therapist is to guide you through your healing journey utilizing evidence based methods such as EMDR and CBT, to help you heal and restore balance and positive outlook in your life.
(304) 443-9139 View (304) 443-9139
Photo of Sidney Sheets, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sidney Sheets
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Morgantown, WV 26508
Are you struggling to navigate through your evolving identity? Are you becoming exhausted with the same old patterns and habits? Perhaps body image and self-esteem are a daily struggle, or you’re unhappy with your relationship to food or substances. Maybe you need a space to explore your thoughts and feelings about your gender and sexuality. If any of these concerns sound familiar, then you’ve come to the right place. I hear you, I believe you, and I understand.
Are you struggling to navigate through your evolving identity? Are you becoming exhausted with the same old patterns and habits? Perhaps body image and self-esteem are a daily struggle, or you’re unhappy with your relationship to food or substances. Maybe you need a space to explore your thoughts and feelings about your gender and sexuality. If any of these concerns sound familiar, then you’ve come to the right place. I hear you, I believe you, and I understand.
(681) 522-3272 View (681) 522-3272
Photo of Alicia Godels-Blackshere, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Godels-Blackshere
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheeling, WV 26003
My name is Alicia Godels-Blackshere. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), working with clients in the state of West Virginia by way of Telehealth. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, anger, stress, oppositional defiance disorder, anxiety, and depression. I work with a variety of approaches, including Psychodynamic, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
My name is Alicia Godels-Blackshere. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), working with clients in the state of West Virginia by way of Telehealth. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, anger, stress, oppositional defiance disorder, anxiety, and depression. I work with a variety of approaches, including Psychodynamic, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(304) 396-7595 View (304) 396-7595

See more therapy options for Bruceton Mills

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bruceton Mills, WV

< 10

Therapists in Bruceton Mills, WV who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% Grief
100% Parenting

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Other
50% Aetna

How Therapists in Bruceton Mills, WV see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bruceton Mills?

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.