Therapists in Cleveland Heights, OH

Photo of Yvette The Coach M.A., CMLC | Narcissistic Abuse in Cleveland Heights, OH
Yvette The Coach M.A., CMLC | Narcissistic Abuse
MA, CMLC, CDC, CHC
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
NARCISSISTIC EMOTIONAL/Psychological abuse & IPV! Dealing with an abusive, hostile, high-profile professional, threatening the entire ecological system of yr life? Your partner, spouse, boss, co-worker, family member? Putting you down and/or threatening you & in the next breath telling you how much they love you? Are you drained, devalued, debilitated to exhaustion? Trivial demands? Isolation? Are you smothered? Is your hair falling out? Are your adrenals pumping? Are you denied sleep? Devouring your will is what the abuser wants so they can control. You must not have any space or feel emotion in the relationship: especially anger.
NARCISSISTIC EMOTIONAL/Psychological abuse & IPV! Dealing with an abusive, hostile, high-profile professional, threatening the entire ecological system of yr life? Your partner, spouse, boss, co-worker, family member? Putting you down and/or threatening you & in the next breath telling you how much they love you? Are you drained, devalued, debilitated to exhaustion? Trivial demands? Isolation? Are you smothered? Is your hair falling out? Are your adrenals pumping? Are you denied sleep? Devouring your will is what the abuser wants so they can control. You must not have any space or feel emotion in the relationship: especially anger.
(216) 284-6178 View (216) 284-6178
Photo of Stephanie Purdom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Stephanie Purdom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
I became a therapist because I find true joy in connecting with others. I believe that therapy can be impactful and enriching while still feeling down-to-earth and accessible. As a social worker I value collaboration, cultural humility, and seeing you as the expert of your own experience. My style is warm and relaxed, but I will also work diligently with you to develop the tools you need to meet your self-defined goals.
I became a therapist because I find true joy in connecting with others. I believe that therapy can be impactful and enriching while still feeling down-to-earth and accessible. As a social worker I value collaboration, cultural humility, and seeing you as the expert of your own experience. My style is warm and relaxed, but I will also work diligently with you to develop the tools you need to meet your self-defined goals.
(614) 968-7032 View (614) 968-7032
Photo of Alan Federman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Alan Federman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
Does is feel like life is a treadmill and you're going over and over the same territory but never getting anywhere? Whether it's an intimate relationship that is stuck on the same issues, an addictive behavior that you can't seem to break out of, or a neurotic pattern of depression or anxiety that robes life of its joy, sometimes life can be discouraging, and trying harder in the same way brings only more frustration.
Does is feel like life is a treadmill and you're going over and over the same territory but never getting anywhere? Whether it's an intimate relationship that is stuck on the same issues, an addictive behavior that you can't seem to break out of, or a neurotic pattern of depression or anxiety that robes life of its joy, sometimes life can be discouraging, and trying harder in the same way brings only more frustration.
(440) 549-0998 View (440) 549-0998
Photo of Laura K. Soca, Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Laura K. Soca
Counselor, MA, PCC, Sup
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
* Is your marriage spiraling out of control? * * Have your finances driven you to the point of giving up or suicidal thoughts? * Have you ever experienced any type of abuse? I believe everyone is born with everything they will ever need in life to make him or her happy and successful. I can help you to access those qualities that may have eluded you or prevented you from achieving your goals. I can help overcome the obstacles and issues that hindered you from happiness and success, and being the best you can be.
* Is your marriage spiraling out of control? * * Have your finances driven you to the point of giving up or suicidal thoughts? * Have you ever experienced any type of abuse? I believe everyone is born with everything they will ever need in life to make him or her happy and successful. I can help you to access those qualities that may have eluded you or prevented you from achieving your goals. I can help overcome the obstacles and issues that hindered you from happiness and success, and being the best you can be.
(216) 365-8797 View (216) 365-8797
Photo of Anne C Parris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Anne C Parris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
Welcome! If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and/or problems in your relationships, I'm here to help.
Welcome! If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and/or problems in your relationships, I'm here to help.
(614) 328-9714 View (614) 328-9714
Adina R. Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
I am philosophically committed to the belief that people function at their highest level in the context of their relationships and their communities. I work with each client as an individual but also as part of his or her social environment. Therefore in addition to working with anxiety, phobias, depression and marriage and family issues, I offer some special services. These include: in-school observation, in-home work with children and families, relaxation training and social skill training.
I am philosophically committed to the belief that people function at their highest level in the context of their relationships and their communities. I work with each client as an individual but also as part of his or her social environment. Therefore in addition to working with anxiety, phobias, depression and marriage and family issues, I offer some special services. These include: in-school observation, in-home work with children and families, relaxation training and social skill training.
(216) 365-8675 View (216) 365-8675
Photo of Tiona L Gosha in Cleveland Heights, OH
Tiona L Gosha
RN, MACPC, BSN, LPCC, S
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
Life experiences can leave you feeling shattered! I am here to help you feel whole again. My ideal client is one who comes to be heard, seeking a way to cope with personal challenges that are effecting their interpersonal relationships, career, physical, emotional or spiritual functionality. I have over 16 years in Clinical Pastoral Counseling. I have worked in the healthcare field as Registered Nurse since 1983. Which has groomed me to work with clients in matters of the heart.
Life experiences can leave you feeling shattered! I am here to help you feel whole again. My ideal client is one who comes to be heard, seeking a way to cope with personal challenges that are effecting their interpersonal relationships, career, physical, emotional or spiritual functionality. I have over 16 years in Clinical Pastoral Counseling. I have worked in the healthcare field as Registered Nurse since 1983. Which has groomed me to work with clients in matters of the heart.
(216) 232-9368 View (216) 232-9368
Photo of Sonji I Kenyatta, Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Sonji I Kenyatta
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
I focus on providing a safe and confidential environment that promotes the healing process. I want to provide you with the tools you need to be productive. My approach is holistic and direct in order to jumpstart your journey of self-discovery and healing. We will explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are positive or negative to your well-being. I have over a decade of experience in providing mental health counseling to adults, children, couples, and families.
I focus on providing a safe and confidential environment that promotes the healing process. I want to provide you with the tools you need to be productive. My approach is holistic and direct in order to jumpstart your journey of self-discovery and healing. We will explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are positive or negative to your well-being. I have over a decade of experience in providing mental health counseling to adults, children, couples, and families.
(216) 259-8381 View (216) 259-8381
Photo of Carol A Leslie - Hypnotherapy-Wellness-Reiki, Occupational Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Carol A Leslie - Hypnotherapy-Wellness-Reiki
Occupational Therapist, ACHT, CWC, OT-Ret
Not Verified Not Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
Carol A Leslie ACHT, CWC, OT-ret - Hypnotherapy is prime treatment for trauma, anxiety, panic, chronic conditions and negative behaviors! Additional strategies offered to those with emotional, or physical, dysfunction. Eliminate the negative impact on your mental state, work, school, home or sabotaged wellness goals! 20 years' leadership in Psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic enabled me to treat all aspects of mental illness plus emotional impact of Crohn's, IBD, transplant, PTSD, and chemical dependency. Retired Occupational Therapist, and Wellness Coach, I also look at all systems in a person's life, their "mind-body occupation."
Carol A Leslie ACHT, CWC, OT-ret - Hypnotherapy is prime treatment for trauma, anxiety, panic, chronic conditions and negative behaviors! Additional strategies offered to those with emotional, or physical, dysfunction. Eliminate the negative impact on your mental state, work, school, home or sabotaged wellness goals! 20 years' leadership in Psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic enabled me to treat all aspects of mental illness plus emotional impact of Crohn's, IBD, transplant, PTSD, and chemical dependency. Retired Occupational Therapist, and Wellness Coach, I also look at all systems in a person's life, their "mind-body occupation."
(216) 303-6392 View (216) 303-6392
Photo of Nancy L Rubel, Psychologist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Nancy L Rubel
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44121  (Online Only)
Life can be a challenging journey. If you are seeking a therapist with a warm, supportive, direct style, consider calling me for a free phone consultation. Mindful awareness, new perspectives, and hope are what I offer in the process of honest exploration of difficult issues and life experiences in psychotherapy. I believe it is my job to be open and non-judgemental as I assist you to find more ease in your life. Through careful listening and advising, I will support you toward sorting through your life struggles. We will use Zoom for our sessions, which offers considerable flexibility in scheduling.
Life can be a challenging journey. If you are seeking a therapist with a warm, supportive, direct style, consider calling me for a free phone consultation. Mindful awareness, new perspectives, and hope are what I offer in the process of honest exploration of difficult issues and life experiences in psychotherapy. I believe it is my job to be open and non-judgemental as I assist you to find more ease in your life. Through careful listening and advising, I will support you toward sorting through your life struggles. We will use Zoom for our sessions, which offers considerable flexibility in scheduling.
(216) 452-7172 View (216) 452-7172
Photo of Jamie V Saunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Jamie V Saunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, CDCA
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
Family dynamics can be one of the biggest challenges we face, and one of the most difficult things in our lives to manage. Relationships are hard, both with partners and with children. Do you find that your children sometimes feel like more of a burden than a joy? Are you finding your child's behaviors challenging or unmanageable? Maybe something is going on with your child that is more than "just a phase." Is parenting with your partner often stressful? Do you feel like you're not being heard and your relationship is unsatisfying? If you find that you are overwhelmed or consistently frustrated, maybe you need some support.
Family dynamics can be one of the biggest challenges we face, and one of the most difficult things in our lives to manage. Relationships are hard, both with partners and with children. Do you find that your children sometimes feel like more of a burden than a joy? Are you finding your child's behaviors challenging or unmanageable? Maybe something is going on with your child that is more than "just a phase." Is parenting with your partner often stressful? Do you feel like you're not being heard and your relationship is unsatisfying? If you find that you are overwhelmed or consistently frustrated, maybe you need some support.
(216) 208-3908 View (216) 208-3908
Photo of Rachel Kay Kingswood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Rachel Kay Kingswood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CDCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Have you tried therapy before, but it didn't help? Feeling stuck or unsure of what you need to heal? Using a holistic integrative approach, I can help you find your footing, learn to trust yourself more, and worry less about things outside your control. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, chronic pain/illness, and anxiety disorders learn to work with their brain and body to live their most authentic and joyful lives. I also enjoy helping couples and families of all kinds (poly, blended, foster/adoptive, etc.) learn how to build relationships based on respect, empathy, and curiosity.
Have you tried therapy before, but it didn't help? Feeling stuck or unsure of what you need to heal? Using a holistic integrative approach, I can help you find your footing, learn to trust yourself more, and worry less about things outside your control. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults with autism, ADHD, chronic pain/illness, and anxiety disorders learn to work with their brain and body to live their most authentic and joyful lives. I also enjoy helping couples and families of all kinds (poly, blended, foster/adoptive, etc.) learn how to build relationships based on respect, empathy, and curiosity.
(216) 677-2965 View (216) 677-2965
Photo of Madeline Hodgman-Korth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Madeline Hodgman-Korth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
For many of us, anxiety, depression, and life stressors can be thought of like a wave that we ride throughout our lives. Sometimes the surf is good, and we can do so easily. Other times it might be choppy, and we have to use our resources and know-how to stay afloat. In bad times, it can feel like the waves are pulling you under. As a therapist, I strive to help clients navigate uncertain tides by processing these experiences together, drawing on their strengths, and improving coping skills.
For many of us, anxiety, depression, and life stressors can be thought of like a wave that we ride throughout our lives. Sometimes the surf is good, and we can do so easily. Other times it might be choppy, and we have to use our resources and know-how to stay afloat. In bad times, it can feel like the waves are pulling you under. As a therapist, I strive to help clients navigate uncertain tides by processing these experiences together, drawing on their strengths, and improving coping skills.
(440) 598-5638 View (440) 598-5638
Photo of Mickie Chaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Mickie Chaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Not accepting new clients
Here to assist clients who have difficulty coping, feeling stuck, hopeless, challenged, stressed, struggling with mental illness or just need someone to process with.
Here to assist clients who have difficulty coping, feeling stuck, hopeless, challenged, stressed, struggling with mental illness or just need someone to process with.
(216) 677-3498 View (216) 677-3498
Photo of Jessica C. McDonough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Jessica C. McDonough
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, AT, CMP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
By utilizing techniques in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), I combine logic, intuition, creativity, and empathy to reflect my unique approach, based in humanism, holism, and existentialism, and assist with achievement of therapeutic goals. I help with challenges such as developing behavioral and emotional self-awareness, learning and implementing adaptive responses to stressors, building effective interpersonal skills, establishing healthy expectations and boundaries, and instilling a sense of empowerment and resilience.
By utilizing techniques in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), I combine logic, intuition, creativity, and empathy to reflect my unique approach, based in humanism, holism, and existentialism, and assist with achievement of therapeutic goals. I help with challenges such as developing behavioral and emotional self-awareness, learning and implementing adaptive responses to stressors, building effective interpersonal skills, establishing healthy expectations and boundaries, and instilling a sense of empowerment and resilience.
(216) 208-8074 View (216) 208-8074
Photo of Otimbum Wilson Jr, Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Otimbum Wilson Jr
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile! This means that you are contemplating the beginning of your therapeutic journey, and this is a beautiful first step. I am a firm believer that ANYBODY can benefit from therapy no matter one's age, gender or race. I have experience working in a multitude of settings such as school based counseling, Methadone clinic, community agency work, and private practice. I have experience working with individuals (children, teenagers and adults), families, and couples. I have experience serving diverse populations with a wide range of mental health concern.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile! This means that you are contemplating the beginning of your therapeutic journey, and this is a beautiful first step. I am a firm believer that ANYBODY can benefit from therapy no matter one's age, gender or race. I have experience working in a multitude of settings such as school based counseling, Methadone clinic, community agency work, and private practice. I have experience working with individuals (children, teenagers and adults), families, and couples. I have experience serving diverse populations with a wide range of mental health concern.
(216) 284-6369 View (216) 284-6369
Photo of Mariah Patton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Mariah Patton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW , LCDCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Hi there I am Mariah and welcome to Mind Trek Counseling! I am a clinician who works with all ages, primarily focusing on adolescents, young adults, and adults grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, substance use disorders (SUD), and college students facing career obstacles. Additionally, I support individuals struggling with communication, boundary-setting, emotional regulation. Their objectives include developing coping mechanisms for mental health symptoms, enhancing communication and boundary-setting skills, managing emotions, securing employment or choosing a career path, understanding their identity.
Hi there I am Mariah and welcome to Mind Trek Counseling! I am a clinician who works with all ages, primarily focusing on adolescents, young adults, and adults grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, substance use disorders (SUD), and college students facing career obstacles. Additionally, I support individuals struggling with communication, boundary-setting, emotional regulation. Their objectives include developing coping mechanisms for mental health symptoms, enhancing communication and boundary-setting skills, managing emotions, securing employment or choosing a career path, understanding their identity.
(216) 438-8460 View (216) 438-8460
Photo of Erica M Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Erica M Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Not accepting new clients
Through transparency, compassion and trust, I help individuals work through concerns, such as self-worth, relationships, family, school, and job-related issues. I specialize in providing therapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults who are navigating life's ups and downs. In addition, my 12 years working as a human resources and organizational behavior professional also lend well to my ability to understand how personal concerns impact academic and career attainment and performance.
Through transparency, compassion and trust, I help individuals work through concerns, such as self-worth, relationships, family, school, and job-related issues. I specialize in providing therapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults who are navigating life's ups and downs. In addition, my 12 years working as a human resources and organizational behavior professional also lend well to my ability to understand how personal concerns impact academic and career attainment and performance.
(734) 375-1122 View (734) 375-1122
Photo of Faith Payton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland Heights, OH
Faith Payton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing compassionate support and understanding to individuals on their path to mental well-being. Within the realm of counseling, I specialize in various areas, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), LGBTQIA+ affirmative counseling, ADHD, substance abuse, personality disorders, grief, chronic illness, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum care, sleep/insomnia management, trauma, and PTSD.
My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing compassionate support and understanding to individuals on their path to mental well-being. Within the realm of counseling, I specialize in various areas, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), LGBTQIA+ affirmative counseling, ADHD, substance abuse, personality disorders, grief, chronic illness, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum care, sleep/insomnia management, trauma, and PTSD.
(216) 510-9149 View (216) 510-9149
Photo of Aimee Gay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland Heights, OH
Aimee Gay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118  (Online Only)
I am a passionate social worker committed to supporting individuals and couples through various aspects of their mental health and well-being. My expertise spans across Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma, Couples Counseling, LGBTQIA+ issues, Grief, Sleep, Insomnia, Domestic Violence and Substance Use. My journey in social work revolves around a deep dedication to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client.
I am a passionate social worker committed to supporting individuals and couples through various aspects of their mental health and well-being. My expertise spans across Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma, Couples Counseling, LGBTQIA+ issues, Grief, Sleep, Insomnia, Domestic Violence and Substance Use. My journey in social work revolves around a deep dedication to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client.
(216) 867-6354 View (216) 867-6354

See more therapy options for Cleveland Heights

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Cleveland Heights, OH

100+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Cleveland Heights, OH who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
75% Relationship Issues
70% Self Esteem
65% Coping Skills
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Medical Mutual
71% Aetna
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Cleveland Heights, OH see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Cleveland Heights?

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.