Therapists in Oak Brook, IL

Photo of Mina Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Brook, IL
Mina Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have obtained a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I’m experienced in addressing various mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma/PTSD, life transition/stressors, relational problems, and self-esteem issues. I have experience working with individuals from various mental health treatment settings such as outpatient therapy office, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and residential treatment center. I believe effective therapy relies on genuine therapeutic relationships built on collaboration and trust.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have obtained a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I’m experienced in addressing various mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma/PTSD, life transition/stressors, relational problems, and self-esteem issues. I have experience working with individuals from various mental health treatment settings such as outpatient therapy office, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and residential treatment center. I believe effective therapy relies on genuine therapeutic relationships built on collaboration and trust.
(217) 885-2661 View (217) 885-2661
Photo of Kristina Stavroplos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Brook, IL
Kristina Stavroplos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
At Collaborative Skills Therapy (CST), we specialize in skill-based therapy. Our innovative approach incorporates tangible resources in every session, offering concrete tools that promote understanding and cater to individual learning styles. At CST, we don’t just provide therapy; we empower individuals with the visuals and conceptual tools they need to navigate their unique paths to well-being. CST prioritizes ensuring that all clients understand the approach being used in their treatment because clear communication about methodology fosters transparency, trust, and collaboration.
At Collaborative Skills Therapy (CST), we specialize in skill-based therapy. Our innovative approach incorporates tangible resources in every session, offering concrete tools that promote understanding and cater to individual learning styles. At CST, we don’t just provide therapy; we empower individuals with the visuals and conceptual tools they need to navigate their unique paths to well-being. CST prioritizes ensuring that all clients understand the approach being used in their treatment because clear communication about methodology fosters transparency, trust, and collaboration.
(847) 503-9464 View (847) 503-9464
Photo of Neelima D. Prabhala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Brook, IL
Neelima D. Prabhala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Therapy is hard work but it’s worth it because it starts with choosing yourself and being intentional about how you want to live your life. While we may come to therapy in a time of hardship, we all have strengths that we can use a foundation for growth. There’s no one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach so I use a blend of approaches including DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Play/Narrative therapies. I also understand how systemic forces shape our realities, and I help clients recognize these forces and develop skills to cope.
Therapy is hard work but it’s worth it because it starts with choosing yourself and being intentional about how you want to live your life. While we may come to therapy in a time of hardship, we all have strengths that we can use a foundation for growth. There’s no one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach so I use a blend of approaches including DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Play/Narrative therapies. I also understand how systemic forces shape our realities, and I help clients recognize these forces and develop skills to cope.
(630) 793-0942 View (630) 793-0942
Photo of Haile Ritchie, Counselor in Oak Brook, IL
Haile Ritchie
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ball State University. My approach to therapy can be described with a quote from a mentor of mine. “If I can make a difference in one chapter of someone’s life story and help it have a better ending then that makes this career worthwhile.” My own experiences have shown the power in having someone show up for you during a difficult time. If you are seeking new perspectives and needing someone to show up for you then therapy is a good place to start the journey.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ball State University. My approach to therapy can be described with a quote from a mentor of mine. “If I can make a difference in one chapter of someone’s life story and help it have a better ending then that makes this career worthwhile.” My own experiences have shown the power in having someone show up for you during a difficult time. If you are seeking new perspectives and needing someone to show up for you then therapy is a good place to start the journey.
(331) 241-6549 View (331) 241-6549
Photo of Shared Vision Psychological Services, Psychologist in Oak Brook, IL
Shared Vision Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
The staff at Shared Vision Psychological Services is committed to providing individualized attention to every person, couple and family we see. It is our goal to help you, too. In everything we do—from individual psychotherapy, to group sessions, to our nature-inspired surroundings—we strive to make you feel comfortable, encouraged and understood. And, we will work side-by-side with you, your child or spouse, to help reach understanding, strengthen resilience and experience hope. Please see our services to see how our team of clinical psychologists can help you.
The staff at Shared Vision Psychological Services is committed to providing individualized attention to every person, couple and family we see. It is our goal to help you, too. In everything we do—from individual psychotherapy, to group sessions, to our nature-inspired surroundings—we strive to make you feel comfortable, encouraged and understood. And, we will work side-by-side with you, your child or spouse, to help reach understanding, strengthen resilience and experience hope. Please see our services to see how our team of clinical psychologists can help you.
(331) 245-3657 x224 View (331) 245-3657 x224
Photo of Aviva Katz, Psychologist in Oak Brook, IL
Aviva Katz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides evidence-based care for children, teens, adults, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety of all types, depression, OCD, trauma, tics, and body-focused repetitive behaviors (hair pulling and skin picking). I have particular expertise at working with adolescents and adults who struggle with multiple challenges simultaneously, and with severe anxiety. I have worked in numerous settings including hospital inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and private practices.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides evidence-based care for children, teens, adults, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety of all types, depression, OCD, trauma, tics, and body-focused repetitive behaviors (hair pulling and skin picking). I have particular expertise at working with adolescents and adults who struggle with multiple challenges simultaneously, and with severe anxiety. I have worked in numerous settings including hospital inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and private practices.
(281) 409-3085 View (281) 409-3085
Photo of Scarlet Konczyk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oak Brook, IL
Scarlet Konczyk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
My approach as a counselor is to create a comfortable, welcoming, and safe environment for every client. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of diagnosis. I have worked with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem issues, stress, issues related to life transitions, school issues, peer relationship issues, women issues, eating disorders, body image, as well as working with couples to transform and create meaningful partnerships. Also, my background in sports and as an elite gymnastics coach allows me to connect with teens and young adult athletes about the pressures of sports.
My approach as a counselor is to create a comfortable, welcoming, and safe environment for every client. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of diagnosis. I have worked with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, self-esteem issues, stress, issues related to life transitions, school issues, peer relationship issues, women issues, eating disorders, body image, as well as working with couples to transform and create meaningful partnerships. Also, my background in sports and as an elite gymnastics coach allows me to connect with teens and young adult athletes about the pressures of sports.
(708) 998-4729 View (708) 998-4729
Photo of Guy E Oberrwise, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Brook, IL
Guy E Oberrwise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60521
I have extensive clinical experience in treating adolescents, adults, families and couples. I specialize in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders and substance abuse. I improve my patient's lives by implementing evidenced-based treatment approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy in combination with a supportive, skill based approach to decrease symptoms and provide a brighter future for their lives. I also provide Exposure Response Prevention Therapy for OCD and am certified to treat Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors such as hair pulling, skin picking, and nail biting.
I have extensive clinical experience in treating adolescents, adults, families and couples. I specialize in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders and substance abuse. I improve my patient's lives by implementing evidenced-based treatment approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy in combination with a supportive, skill based approach to decrease symptoms and provide a brighter future for their lives. I also provide Exposure Response Prevention Therapy for OCD and am certified to treat Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors such as hair pulling, skin picking, and nail biting.
(708) 512-7278 View (708) 512-7278
Photo of Karin Madsen-Lagacy, Psychologist in Oak Brook, IL
Karin Madsen-Lagacy
Psychologist, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I admire the courage it takes to ask for help and hope to provide you with tools to change your life to what you want it to be. I believe that people face many challenges in their lives. I believe that with perseverance and with focus many challenges can be overcome. I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in eating disorders, self-injury, self esteem issues, anxiety disorders, and depression. I believe that you are the expert on your own life and I strive to help you navigate your unique situation with more adaptive coping skills and general sense of fulfillment.
I admire the courage it takes to ask for help and hope to provide you with tools to change your life to what you want it to be. I believe that people face many challenges in their lives. I believe that with perseverance and with focus many challenges can be overcome. I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in eating disorders, self-injury, self esteem issues, anxiety disorders, and depression. I believe that you are the expert on your own life and I strive to help you navigate your unique situation with more adaptive coping skills and general sense of fulfillment.
(630) 478-8593 View (630) 478-8593
Photo of Gail Suzanne Day, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oak Brook, IL
Gail Suzanne Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Are you struggling with life pressures? Are you feeling like you are drowning with no way out? As a therapist, I am committed and passionate about finding ways to support individuals in owning and exploring their struggles, creating a bridge from emotional drowning to taking control of their lives. I believe in the power to view struggles as an opportunity to grow emotionally and interpersonally, becoming the person you aspire to be. I am a Licensed Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years with vast experience working with children & families, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics population
Are you struggling with life pressures? Are you feeling like you are drowning with no way out? As a therapist, I am committed and passionate about finding ways to support individuals in owning and exploring their struggles, creating a bridge from emotional drowning to taking control of their lives. I believe in the power to view struggles as an opportunity to grow emotionally and interpersonally, becoming the person you aspire to be. I am a Licensed Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years with vast experience working with children & families, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics population
(708) 847-7150 View (708) 847-7150
Photo of A Better Tomorrow: Behavioral Health Care Center, Psychologist in Oak Brook, IL
A Better Tomorrow: Behavioral Health Care Center
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
At 'A Better Tomorrow', we believe that a decision to change means you're halfway there. We understand that deciding to seek help can be a difficult choice to make. It is important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and one who challenges you in a way to facilitate and inspire change. We have several professionals on staff who can help, and can work as a collaborative team to explore which aspects of your life may be holding you back from realizing a more emotionally healthy and satisfying life.
At 'A Better Tomorrow', we believe that a decision to change means you're halfway there. We understand that deciding to seek help can be a difficult choice to make. It is important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and one who challenges you in a way to facilitate and inspire change. We have several professionals on staff who can help, and can work as a collaborative team to explore which aspects of your life may be holding you back from realizing a more emotionally healthy and satisfying life.
(630) 317-7775 View (630) 317-7775
Photo of Marie Johnson, Psychologist in Oak Brook, IL
Marie Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Are you feeling anxious, sad, or irritable? Are you having difficulty concentrating or are withdrawing from others and not enjoying the things you used to find pleasure in doing? Have any of these issues affected your work or school performance and your relationships? If you are experiencing any of these problems, it may be time to explore ways to resolve them in a caring, supportive, and encouraging environment. It's time to discover ways to improve your overall health, quality of life, and sense of well-being.
Are you feeling anxious, sad, or irritable? Are you having difficulty concentrating or are withdrawing from others and not enjoying the things you used to find pleasure in doing? Have any of these issues affected your work or school performance and your relationships? If you are experiencing any of these problems, it may be time to explore ways to resolve them in a caring, supportive, and encouraging environment. It's time to discover ways to improve your overall health, quality of life, and sense of well-being.
(331) 244-6151 View (331) 244-6151
Photo of Lorinda Suthers-Salbego, Counselor in Oak Brook, IL
Lorinda Suthers-Salbego
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523  (Online Only)
We often label the challenges that life presents as failures or successes; I believe that the challenges are what hold the opportunity to learn and grow. I believe therapy works best when there is a good fit between a client and their therapist. In my role, this involves being flexible, supportive, open and transparent in order to help you define and work towards your goals.
We often label the challenges that life presents as failures or successes; I believe that the challenges are what hold the opportunity to learn and grow. I believe therapy works best when there is a good fit between a client and their therapist. In my role, this involves being flexible, supportive, open and transparent in order to help you define and work towards your goals.
(217) 262-1498 View (217) 262-1498
Photo of Donna Loza, Midwest Center for Hope & Healing, Ltd, Counselor in Oak Brook, IL
Donna Loza, Midwest Center for Hope & Healing, Ltd
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals? Donna is passionate about offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment to men, women, couples and children; ages four and up.
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals? Donna is passionate about offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment to men, women, couples and children; ages four and up.
(630) 748-7709 View (630) 748-7709
Photo of Cindy Thelen, Counselor in Oak Brook, IL
Cindy Thelen
Counselor, LCPC, CT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I offer caring, insightful, professional help in navigating through experiences of grief, loss & life transitions. Maybe you’re facing acute grief brought on by a recent loss. Or perhaps you’re living with the cumulative effects of losses long past yet still painfully present. These experiences can be catalysts for profound growth. It would be my privilege to assist you in identifying and gently letting go of the obstacles to more satisfying, full and authentic living.
I offer caring, insightful, professional help in navigating through experiences of grief, loss & life transitions. Maybe you’re facing acute grief brought on by a recent loss. Or perhaps you’re living with the cumulative effects of losses long past yet still painfully present. These experiences can be catalysts for profound growth. It would be my privilege to assist you in identifying and gently letting go of the obstacles to more satisfying, full and authentic living.
(630) 733-1939 View (630) 733-1939
Photo of Swati Varma, Psychologist in Oak Brook, IL
Swati Varma
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Are you pregnant or have you recently given birth? Are you struggling with managing your emotions, new responsibilities, and a new identity? You are not alone. I am here to help you navigate your way through this complex life transition by providing you support and tools to cope with changes during the perinatal stage. I also specialize in working with individual in various transitions in life (ie: high school to college, college to working life etc.). In addition, I incorporate a strong cultural lens within my work and work closely with the South Asian Population.
Are you pregnant or have you recently given birth? Are you struggling with managing your emotions, new responsibilities, and a new identity? You are not alone. I am here to help you navigate your way through this complex life transition by providing you support and tools to cope with changes during the perinatal stage. I also specialize in working with individual in various transitions in life (ie: high school to college, college to working life etc.). In addition, I incorporate a strong cultural lens within my work and work closely with the South Asian Population.
(872) 216-5893 View (872) 216-5893
Photo of Kathleen Griffin, Counselor in Oak Brook, IL
Kathleen Griffin
Counselor, LCPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523  (Online Only)
I offer a genuine, compassionate and respectful relationship with clients, so they can reach greater self-awareness and insight. My goal is to help clients to reach greater satisfaction and balance with quality of life overall.
I offer a genuine, compassionate and respectful relationship with clients, so they can reach greater self-awareness and insight. My goal is to help clients to reach greater satisfaction and balance with quality of life overall.
(708) 223-8405 View (708) 223-8405
Photo of Dilek M. McCombs, Psychologist in Oak Brook, IL
Dilek M. McCombs
Psychologist, PsyD, PC
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. My mission as a licensed clinical psychologist is to promote health and happiness through empowerment of my clients. I believe that we are resilient beings with full capacity to achieve meaningful lives. My role in therapy is to guide my clients towards cultivating what is best in them, uncovering their existing resources as their foundation and acquiring additional skills to reach their goals. I help my clients heal from traumatic experiences and overcome depression and anxiety to become better adjusted individuals. It would be my privilege to assist you transform your life and achieve wellness.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. My mission as a licensed clinical psychologist is to promote health and happiness through empowerment of my clients. I believe that we are resilient beings with full capacity to achieve meaningful lives. My role in therapy is to guide my clients towards cultivating what is best in them, uncovering their existing resources as their foundation and acquiring additional skills to reach their goals. I help my clients heal from traumatic experiences and overcome depression and anxiety to become better adjusted individuals. It would be my privilege to assist you transform your life and achieve wellness.
(331) 771-7009 View (331) 771-7009
James J Guidi
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
My ideal client is someone who is open to explore their feelings, beliefs, behavior, and relationships and undertake the journey of change. This will not always be easy; change is difficult and we often times get stuck in unhealthy patterns of behaviors and beliefs. Change can be uncomfortable - sometimes even frightening - even when your in pain. My ideal client is willing to do battle with their ambivalence and their fears and participate in the struggle to learn new ways to cope and deal with what hurts them.
My ideal client is someone who is open to explore their feelings, beliefs, behavior, and relationships and undertake the journey of change. This will not always be easy; change is difficult and we often times get stuck in unhealthy patterns of behaviors and beliefs. Change can be uncomfortable - sometimes even frightening - even when your in pain. My ideal client is willing to do battle with their ambivalence and their fears and participate in the struggle to learn new ways to cope and deal with what hurts them.
(847) 915-6230 View (847) 915-6230
Photo of Breanna Sacco, Counselor in Oak Brook, IL
Breanna Sacco
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Are you feeling lost and not exactly sure where to begin? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges you're facing? Perhaps you're feeling distressed and hopeless about which paths to take and how to move forward? I am here for you. Together, we can explore who you are and what you're going through to uncover a greater sense of understanding and create a unique path for you to become your best self.
Are you feeling lost and not exactly sure where to begin? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges you're facing? Perhaps you're feeling distressed and hopeless about which paths to take and how to move forward? I am here for you. Together, we can explore who you are and what you're going through to uncover a greater sense of understanding and create a unique path for you to become your best self.
(847) 495-8237 View (847) 495-8237

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Oak Brook, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Oak Brook, IL who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD
64% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% BlueCross and BlueShield
63% Aetna
58% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Oak Brook, IL see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Oak Brook?

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.