Therapists in Oklahoma City, OK

Photo of Bree Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Bree Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Not accepting new clients
I have a passion for working with youth and adults struggling with mental health, especially those experiencing crises and/or are part of an underserved community. It is my goal to provide a safe space for all clients utilizing warmth, genuineness, and unconditional support. I have worked with adolescents and adults from a trauma-informed perspective struggling with childhood trauma, suicidality, self-harm behaviors, depression, anxiety, and identity development. You are the expert of your life and through collaboration, we can explore the stories that make you who you are and who you hope to be.
I have a passion for working with youth and adults struggling with mental health, especially those experiencing crises and/or are part of an underserved community. It is my goal to provide a safe space for all clients utilizing warmth, genuineness, and unconditional support. I have worked with adolescents and adults from a trauma-informed perspective struggling with childhood trauma, suicidality, self-harm behaviors, depression, anxiety, and identity development. You are the expert of your life and through collaboration, we can explore the stories that make you who you are and who you hope to be.
(405) 266-6571 View (405) 266-6571
Photo of Annette Davenport, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Annette Davenport
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73114  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that life is a journey and not a destination. The past has brought you to where you are, however, you can decide where your journey will take you. As a therapist, I believe in treating the whole person. My role as a therapist is to provide clients with empathy and unconditional positive regard to facilitate change. It is important that the client develop his/her own journey to enhance their inner strengths to become the person they want to be. I love what I do. I come along beside my clients to develop a positive client/therapist relationship which is very important for fostering positive life changes.
I believe that life is a journey and not a destination. The past has brought you to where you are, however, you can decide where your journey will take you. As a therapist, I believe in treating the whole person. My role as a therapist is to provide clients with empathy and unconditional positive regard to facilitate change. It is important that the client develop his/her own journey to enhance their inner strengths to become the person they want to be. I love what I do. I come along beside my clients to develop a positive client/therapist relationship which is very important for fostering positive life changes.
(405) 972-6976 View (405) 972-6976
Photo of Kelly Whelan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Kelly Whelan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73103
Not accepting new clients
I am the owner and sole therapist of Uptown Counseling LLC and have provided mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings since 2011. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults to overcome obstacles, express themselves in a healthy manner, and be able to cope with life's challenges.
I am the owner and sole therapist of Uptown Counseling LLC and have provided mental health services to children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings since 2011. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults to overcome obstacles, express themselves in a healthy manner, and be able to cope with life's challenges.
(405) 267-9292 View (405) 267-9292
Photo of LaDonna White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
LaDonna White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Not accepting new clients
Grieving a loss? Missing someone? Traumatized? Overwhelmed? I offer a client centered approach to individuals, couples, and families addressing everyday issues, personal growth, trauma, depression, and anxiety. You deserve an opportunity to speak your truth and be heard.I believe in empowering all to find their voice. Relationships are important, I help individuals recognize and improve their healthy and unhealthy behaviors.
Grieving a loss? Missing someone? Traumatized? Overwhelmed? I offer a client centered approach to individuals, couples, and families addressing everyday issues, personal growth, trauma, depression, and anxiety. You deserve an opportunity to speak your truth and be heard.I believe in empowering all to find their voice. Relationships are important, I help individuals recognize and improve their healthy and unhealthy behaviors.
(405) 445-6216 View (405) 445-6216
Photo of Shelley A Smith, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Shelley A Smith
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC-MH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating people with various forms of substance abuse and addiction, eating disorders, issues stemming from shame, guilt and low self-worth, trauma and adverse life experiences. I have experience working with clients with various forms of substance abuse and specifically opiate addiction and those receiving medication assisted treatments such as methadone, Suboxone, etc. My other area of focus is working with individuals struggling with eating disorders including individuals with co-occurring eating disorder and substance abuse.
I specialize in treating people with various forms of substance abuse and addiction, eating disorders, issues stemming from shame, guilt and low self-worth, trauma and adverse life experiences. I have experience working with clients with various forms of substance abuse and specifically opiate addiction and those receiving medication assisted treatments such as methadone, Suboxone, etc. My other area of focus is working with individuals struggling with eating disorders including individuals with co-occurring eating disorder and substance abuse.
(405) 562-9575 View (405) 562-9575
Photo of Peggy Grady, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Peggy Grady
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73114
(6/15/21: Temporarily not taking new clients.) Sometimes the winds-of-change blow through our lives, taking us down unfamiliar paths or through difficult, unwanted, or foreign terrain. These challenges can be painful and disruptive; however, they can also be "trailheads to inner peace". I'd like to guide you on your path of healing as you seek empowerment, growth, or insight in a particular area of your life. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, an Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapist and Consultant with over 40 years of combined experience in counseling and integrated therapy.
(6/15/21: Temporarily not taking new clients.) Sometimes the winds-of-change blow through our lives, taking us down unfamiliar paths or through difficult, unwanted, or foreign terrain. These challenges can be painful and disruptive; however, they can also be "trailheads to inner peace". I'd like to guide you on your path of healing as you seek empowerment, growth, or insight in a particular area of your life. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, an Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapist and Consultant with over 40 years of combined experience in counseling and integrated therapy.
(405) 622-4243 View (405) 622-4243
Photo of Crystal D. Coetzee, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Crystal D. Coetzee
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC/MH, PLLC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
As a Licensed Counselor, I'm here to help you understand and manage whatever life throws at you, and how to do it successfully. It is my goal to provide a safe environment and develop a therapeutic relationship with trust and empathy. I will assist you with tools and solutions to overcome obstacles, and to accomplish your own unique goals. We will work together to help you achieve healing and meaningful change.
As a Licensed Counselor, I'm here to help you understand and manage whatever life throws at you, and how to do it successfully. It is my goal to provide a safe environment and develop a therapeutic relationship with trust and empathy. I will assist you with tools and solutions to overcome obstacles, and to accomplish your own unique goals. We will work together to help you achieve healing and meaningful change.
(405) 276-4440 View (405) 276-4440
Photo of Haley D'lane Turner in Oklahoma City, OK
Haley D'lane Turner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Life is hard and can be overwhelming. It is okay to admit that you need help, and it is brave of you to look for it. I welcome you to start your journey to overcome the challenges you may be feeling. My name is Haley Turner, and I am currently a student at Northcentral University, obtaining my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am currently in the middle of my internship under the Supervision of Mrs. Jennifer Marten, LMFT, and my clinical director at The Prevention Center, Mrs. Trina House. I am dedicated and passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families.
Life is hard and can be overwhelming. It is okay to admit that you need help, and it is brave of you to look for it. I welcome you to start your journey to overcome the challenges you may be feeling. My name is Haley Turner, and I am currently a student at Northcentral University, obtaining my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am currently in the middle of my internship under the Supervision of Mrs. Jennifer Marten, LMFT, and my clinical director at The Prevention Center, Mrs. Trina House. I am dedicated and passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families.
(405) 449-6794 View (405) 449-6794
Photo of Sherrie Dunn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Sherrie Dunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
All counseling issues are, in some way, related to grief. Loss of: a loved one, a relationship, work, health, youth, peace, innocence, self-esteem, etc. I believe all people are looking for unconditional acceptance, compassion and gentleness in dealing with their internal wounds. I entered the counseling field after watching a close friend heal from post-abortion grief by simply finding a safe place to talk about her experience. I feel that the ability to provide a safe place for people to express their pain is something I do naturally.
All counseling issues are, in some way, related to grief. Loss of: a loved one, a relationship, work, health, youth, peace, innocence, self-esteem, etc. I believe all people are looking for unconditional acceptance, compassion and gentleness in dealing with their internal wounds. I entered the counseling field after watching a close friend heal from post-abortion grief by simply finding a safe place to talk about her experience. I feel that the ability to provide a safe place for people to express their pain is something I do naturally.
(405) 384-8947 View (405) 384-8947
Photo of Lisa M Schoelen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Lisa M Schoelen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Not accepting new clients
I have a passion for meeting people were they are and aim to quickly build rapport. Using common humanity as a launching point we can identify values that drive you, curate your innate resilience, and harness the power of language and connection. Together we can safely unpack any problematic patterns, heal from trauma, and construct a new self narrative.
I have a passion for meeting people were they are and aim to quickly build rapport. Using common humanity as a launching point we can identify values that drive you, curate your innate resilience, and harness the power of language and connection. Together we can safely unpack any problematic patterns, heal from trauma, and construct a new self narrative.
(405) 251-8132 View (405) 251-8132
Photo of Leslie Ann McKee Lpc Lmft Ladc, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Leslie Ann McKee Lpc Lmft Ladc
Marriage & Family Therapist, Leslie McKee LPC LMFT LADC, LMFT, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
Life should be interesting with something to look forward to every day. My passion for more than 25 years has been providing individualized therapy to individuals, couples and families wanting to improve their quality of life. I work hard to make every session with my clients meaningful by first co-creating a safe, nonjudgmental, and relaxed space where you can talk about whatever you need to talk about - a space where you can process feelings and we can collaboratively identify solutions that will make things better in whatever area of your world you want to work on.
Life should be interesting with something to look forward to every day. My passion for more than 25 years has been providing individualized therapy to individuals, couples and families wanting to improve their quality of life. I work hard to make every session with my clients meaningful by first co-creating a safe, nonjudgmental, and relaxed space where you can talk about whatever you need to talk about - a space where you can process feelings and we can collaboratively identify solutions that will make things better in whatever area of your world you want to work on.
(405) 445-6843 View (405) 445-6843
Photo of Mackenzie Brewer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Mackenzie Brewer
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC-S, LADC-MH
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties. I will help guide and empower you through this journey.
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties. I will help guide and empower you through this journey.
(405) 452-8710 View (405) 452-8710
Photo of Mollie Hobbs, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oklahoma City, OK
Mollie Hobbs
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT- C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73120  (Online Only)
May 2024- Now accepting new clients. Virtual/Telehealth Only. Hello! I am glad you are here. Starting therapy can seem overwhelming. Sometimes the hardest part is finding a therapist you can connect with. And I hope I am that therapist for you. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where my clients feel seen, heard, and valued. I have a passion for working with preteens, teens, and young adults. As a play-based therapist, I understand the value of play for children and adults of all ages. Play creates a safe arena for those to learn about themselves and the world around them.
May 2024- Now accepting new clients. Virtual/Telehealth Only. Hello! I am glad you are here. Starting therapy can seem overwhelming. Sometimes the hardest part is finding a therapist you can connect with. And I hope I am that therapist for you. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space where my clients feel seen, heard, and valued. I have a passion for working with preteens, teens, and young adults. As a play-based therapist, I understand the value of play for children and adults of all ages. Play creates a safe arena for those to learn about themselves and the world around them.
(405) 674-4507 View (405) 674-4507
Photo of Tanya L Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Tanya L Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, BHCMII
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73104
Not accepting new clients
Experiencing mental health symptoms does not define who you are. No matter the impact on your life, the ability to cope during crisis can determine how quickly you return to healthy mental functioning, I have learned that in our society, some strive to have approval from others, while many struggle with intrusive thoughts or abnormal behaviors stemming from experiences with various traumas, abuses, lifestyles or identities. As an LPC I want to provide a safe haven for all populations, in a setting where judgement is nonexistent and the person is placed before the symptom by using an eclectic style tailored for each individual need.
Experiencing mental health symptoms does not define who you are. No matter the impact on your life, the ability to cope during crisis can determine how quickly you return to healthy mental functioning, I have learned that in our society, some strive to have approval from others, while many struggle with intrusive thoughts or abnormal behaviors stemming from experiences with various traumas, abuses, lifestyles or identities. As an LPC I want to provide a safe haven for all populations, in a setting where judgement is nonexistent and the person is placed before the symptom by using an eclectic style tailored for each individual need.
(405) 451-2199 x101 View (405) 451-2199 x101
Photo of Rachel Hudson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Rachel Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73112  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with my clients to build a therapy relationship that nurtures growth and insight using critical thinking, compassion, and humor. My approach starts from a perspective that identifies patterns in your history impacting your life today, including personal strengths and areas of limitation. This approach can improve symptoms, increase resiliency, grow intimacy, and help overcome obstacles to your fulfillment. I have a special interest in neurodiversity including ADHD and Autism Spectrum diagnoses, especially for new and mid-career professionals.
I work with my clients to build a therapy relationship that nurtures growth and insight using critical thinking, compassion, and humor. My approach starts from a perspective that identifies patterns in your history impacting your life today, including personal strengths and areas of limitation. This approach can improve symptoms, increase resiliency, grow intimacy, and help overcome obstacles to your fulfillment. I have a special interest in neurodiversity including ADHD and Autism Spectrum diagnoses, especially for new and mid-career professionals.
(405) 679-2504 View (405) 679-2504
Photo of Jessica Caudle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Jessica Caudle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
Not accepting new clients
Asking for help or seeking support is not a sign of weakness or deficiency, it is a sign of wisdom and a desire for personal growth. While challenging at times, the therapeutic process can be a great personal investment. I believe that humans are complex, resilient, and capable of change and overcoming. I work with individuals, adolescents to adults, needing mental health assistance or trauma focused therapies.
Asking for help or seeking support is not a sign of weakness or deficiency, it is a sign of wisdom and a desire for personal growth. While challenging at times, the therapeutic process can be a great personal investment. I believe that humans are complex, resilient, and capable of change and overcoming. I work with individuals, adolescents to adults, needing mental health assistance or trauma focused therapies.
(405) 492-7710 View (405) 492-7710
Photo of Kari A Goines, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Kari A Goines
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, -S
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Life is pretty good about throwing us curve balls. Sometimes, these curve balls can be devastating. They can impact our daily lives, our relationships, how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. My goal is to help people work through challenging events in their life and make the changes that are important to them. I have enjoyed working as a Counselor for over 10yrs and have worked with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. During this time, I have had experience working with children, adolescents, families and couples.
Life is pretty good about throwing us curve balls. Sometimes, these curve balls can be devastating. They can impact our daily lives, our relationships, how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. My goal is to help people work through challenging events in their life and make the changes that are important to them. I have enjoyed working as a Counselor for over 10yrs and have worked with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. During this time, I have had experience working with children, adolescents, families and couples.
(405) 400-0693 View (405) 400-0693
Photo of April Starr, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oklahoma City, OK
April Starr
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73102  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
You might feel like you’re drowning AND on fire at the same time. By looking for a therapist to help you, you're taking the first step to say this CAN get better. A lot of people find going to a therapist for the first time to be uncomfortable, so I'm impressed you are being good to yourself, being brave, and swallowing back those fears and pushing forward toward healing. I love working with families and individuals to bring both symptom relief and deep change that heals and doesn't just put a band-aid on your issues. I have a passion for teletherapy, received formal training, and can treat Medicaid clients anywhere in Oklahoma.
You might feel like you’re drowning AND on fire at the same time. By looking for a therapist to help you, you're taking the first step to say this CAN get better. A lot of people find going to a therapist for the first time to be uncomfortable, so I'm impressed you are being good to yourself, being brave, and swallowing back those fears and pushing forward toward healing. I love working with families and individuals to bring both symptom relief and deep change that heals and doesn't just put a band-aid on your issues. I have a passion for teletherapy, received formal training, and can treat Medicaid clients anywhere in Oklahoma.
(580) 997-5424 View (580) 997-5424
Joseph Banken
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Dr. Joseph Banken is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with over 30 years of experience in military, academic, and clinical settings. Dr. Banken embodies a compassionate approach to treating men's issues, mood disorders, stress depression, anxiety, and the adjustment challenges of life. I offer counseling and talk therapy services; however, I do not currently offer psychological testing.
Dr. Joseph Banken is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with over 30 years of experience in military, academic, and clinical settings. Dr. Banken embodies a compassionate approach to treating men's issues, mood disorders, stress depression, anxiety, and the adjustment challenges of life. I offer counseling and talk therapy services; however, I do not currently offer psychological testing.
(405) 267-8320 View (405) 267-8320
Photo of Donna McCoy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Donna McCoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
My 25 years of experience in counseling psychology have given me a wide range of experience that is an advantage in collaborating with my clients to achieve their goals as quickly as possible. In addition, over 15 years in teaching psychology has given me a depth of knowledge and understanding in a variety of counseling techniques. Teaching has also helped me to stay in touch with the latest research and discoveries in the field. I feel I have a responsibility to my clients to assist them in reaching their goals as quickly as possible while at the same time imparting the skills and knowledge they need to continue to grow.
My 25 years of experience in counseling psychology have given me a wide range of experience that is an advantage in collaborating with my clients to achieve their goals as quickly as possible. In addition, over 15 years in teaching psychology has given me a depth of knowledge and understanding in a variety of counseling techniques. Teaching has also helped me to stay in touch with the latest research and discoveries in the field. I feel I have a responsibility to my clients to assist them in reaching their goals as quickly as possible while at the same time imparting the skills and knowledge they need to continue to grow.
(405) 353-9509 View (405) 353-9509

See more therapy options for Oklahoma City

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Oklahoma City, OK

800+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Oklahoma City, OK who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Self Esteem
74% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% Health Choice
56% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Oklahoma City, OK see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Oklahoma City?

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.