Therapists in Leesburg, VA

Photo of Janice L Fristad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, VA
Janice L Fristad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
Are you entering a new life transitions, and need some direction? Do you feel that you are in pain as a couple or in a family situation? Please reach out to me today. I would welcome the opportunity of working with you. I have always felt that my passion in life was to offer support to others and to suggest alternative choices in life. I have a Master's degree in Social Work with a focus on gerontology, but I have had experience in working with youth, adults and seniors.
Are you entering a new life transitions, and need some direction? Do you feel that you are in pain as a couple or in a family situation? Please reach out to me today. I would welcome the opportunity of working with you. I have always felt that my passion in life was to offer support to others and to suggest alternative choices in life. I have a Master's degree in Social Work with a focus on gerontology, but I have had experience in working with youth, adults and seniors.
(703) 215-2389 View (703) 215-2389
Photo of Dawn Van Berkel, Resident in Counseling in Leesburg, VA
Dawn Van Berkel
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
There are times when life is overwhelming - you feel that your relationships, work, stress, your trauma, your moods are more in control than you are. Do you wonder where do I go from here? How do I make a change? It takes courage to seek understanding and work through the fear of change, but you are ready. You don’t want to feel this way anymore…Life is too short to feel stuck. Are you looking for a safe and welcoming space to discover a pathway forward amid life’s challenges? Are you ready to experience the power of developing a trusting relationship in an insightful, warm, non-judgmental environment? The first step is showing up.
There are times when life is overwhelming - you feel that your relationships, work, stress, your trauma, your moods are more in control than you are. Do you wonder where do I go from here? How do I make a change? It takes courage to seek understanding and work through the fear of change, but you are ready. You don’t want to feel this way anymore…Life is too short to feel stuck. Are you looking for a safe and welcoming space to discover a pathway forward amid life’s challenges? Are you ready to experience the power of developing a trusting relationship in an insightful, warm, non-judgmental environment? The first step is showing up.
(703) 215-1338 View (703) 215-1338
Photo of Alexandra L. Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, VA
Alexandra L. Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
Emotions aren't meant to be feared. Trying to navigate through distressing thoughts, experiences, and memories can be overwhelming. My goal is to help you feel on top of life’s challenges, take on those struggles with ease, make connections, and gain more clarity of yourself in the process. Whether you are facing trauma, anxiety, grief, life adjustments, relationship concerns, or learning to achieve overall wellness for yourself, it would be a privilege to be a part of the journey with you.
Emotions aren't meant to be feared. Trying to navigate through distressing thoughts, experiences, and memories can be overwhelming. My goal is to help you feel on top of life’s challenges, take on those struggles with ease, make connections, and gain more clarity of yourself in the process. Whether you are facing trauma, anxiety, grief, life adjustments, relationship concerns, or learning to achieve overall wellness for yourself, it would be a privilege to be a part of the journey with you.
(571) 554-6881 View (571) 554-6881
Photo of Meghan Wilmoth Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, VA
Meghan Wilmoth Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Not accepting new clients
*****Now also offering online psychotherapy services!***** Have you experienced a big change? Are you have having trouble coping with a loss of a job, a relationship, or a loved one? Is there a conflict or issue that you just can't seem to resolve on your own? Well, you have made a courageous first step by seeking help. My goal is to provide a space for you to identify your strengths, share your hopes and fears, and process your emotions. I take an individualized approach to therapy, using techniques and theories from a number of approaches to help you adjust and grow through your unique experiences.
*****Now also offering online psychotherapy services!***** Have you experienced a big change? Are you have having trouble coping with a loss of a job, a relationship, or a loved one? Is there a conflict or issue that you just can't seem to resolve on your own? Well, you have made a courageous first step by seeking help. My goal is to provide a space for you to identify your strengths, share your hopes and fears, and process your emotions. I take an individualized approach to therapy, using techniques and theories from a number of approaches to help you adjust and grow through your unique experiences.
(703) 972-1745 View (703) 972-1745
Photo of Victoria Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, VA
Victoria Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
Victoria Scott is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing for over 5 years in the state of Virginia. She graduated with a Master of Education degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from East Tennessee State University. Victoria's background in Family Systems Therapy allows her to provide therapy to both individuals, couples, and families.
Victoria Scott is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing for over 5 years in the state of Virginia. She graduated with a Master of Education degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from East Tennessee State University. Victoria's background in Family Systems Therapy allows her to provide therapy to both individuals, couples, and families.
(540) 766-5465 View (540) 766-5465
Photo of Bansri Patel, Resident in Counseling in Leesburg, VA
Bansri Patel
Resident in Counseling, LRC
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
Bansri Patel is a Resident in Counseling in Virginia who has been practicing since 2022. She has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University. She also holds a Master's degree in Forensic & Legal Psychology from Marymount University. As a resident, she is working towards her licensure to become an LPC. Bansri provides services for adolescents, individuals, and couples. Bansri works with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship dysfunction, transitional stressors, and well as family conflicts.
Bansri Patel is a Resident in Counseling in Virginia who has been practicing since 2022. She has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University. She also holds a Master's degree in Forensic & Legal Psychology from Marymount University. As a resident, she is working towards her licensure to become an LPC. Bansri provides services for adolescents, individuals, and couples. Bansri works with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship dysfunction, transitional stressors, and well as family conflicts.
(540) 583-4311 View (540) 583-4311
Photo of Deegan Ivers, Resident in Counseling in Leesburg, VA
Deegan Ivers
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20176
Deegan provides counseling for children, adolescents, adults, and families with various presenting issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, self-esteem issues, attention issues, and behavior management.
Deegan provides counseling for children, adolescents, adults, and families with various presenting issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, self-esteem issues, attention issues, and behavior management.
(540) 712-8201 View (540) 712-8201
Photo of Amy Fowler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, VA
Amy Fowler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Not accepting new clients
You deserve to live a life without things that hold you back, pull you down, or leave you in the dark. Whether this is an eating disorder that has stopped you from enjoying life or made you see yourself differently than how others see you, anxiety that has caused you to feel you cannot take a chance, or depression that has made you feel as though there is no way to cope, I want to work with you to help you find and understand your true self. Therapy is identifying what needs to change, taking those steps, and working to meet your goals. This journey can be challenging, however, you will find in the end it is very fulfilling.
You deserve to live a life without things that hold you back, pull you down, or leave you in the dark. Whether this is an eating disorder that has stopped you from enjoying life or made you see yourself differently than how others see you, anxiety that has caused you to feel you cannot take a chance, or depression that has made you feel as though there is no way to cope, I want to work with you to help you find and understand your true self. Therapy is identifying what needs to change, taking those steps, and working to meet your goals. This journey can be challenging, however, you will find in the end it is very fulfilling.
(571) 999-6975 View (571) 999-6975
Photo of Sharon Hamilton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, VA
Sharon Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
I work with all couples and relationships including couples who have experienced an affair, couples who are “fighting all the time”, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other.
I work with all couples and relationships including couples who have experienced an affair, couples who are “fighting all the time”, and couples who have lost that “spark” for each other.
(703) 440-7413 View (703) 440-7413
Photo of Shelby Brownlee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, VA
Shelby Brownlee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
Shelby Brownlee is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2002. Shelby wants clients to feel that counseling is a mutual exploration to seek solutions to their concerns. Shelby wants to offer increased hope and motivation to help clients reach greater satisfaction in life. Shelby offers willingness to include faith-based strategies to clients who express desire for that. Shelby is curious and offers cross cultural awareness and wants to learn from clients as well. Shelby loves hiking and being outdoors with nature and enjoys music and singing, as well as viewing art and cultural exhibits.
Shelby Brownlee is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2002. Shelby wants clients to feel that counseling is a mutual exploration to seek solutions to their concerns. Shelby wants to offer increased hope and motivation to help clients reach greater satisfaction in life. Shelby offers willingness to include faith-based strategies to clients who express desire for that. Shelby is curious and offers cross cultural awareness and wants to learn from clients as well. Shelby loves hiking and being outdoors with nature and enjoys music and singing, as well as viewing art and cultural exhibits.
(540) 573-2282 View (540) 573-2282
Photo of Michelle Toland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, VA
Michelle Toland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Are you experiencing symptoms that impact your personal life, career, and relationships? Ready to make a change for the better? There is hope, and I can help. Nowadays many of us are affected by anxiety, depression, emotional distress, separation/divorce, school issues, impaired social relationships, low self-esteem, trauma, grief and loss, or other overwhelming stressors. I offer a safe space and a strengths based, client centered approach to promote healing and improve the quality of your life. Now accepting new clients for in-person or telehealth in English or Spanish.
Are you experiencing symptoms that impact your personal life, career, and relationships? Ready to make a change for the better? There is hope, and I can help. Nowadays many of us are affected by anxiety, depression, emotional distress, separation/divorce, school issues, impaired social relationships, low self-esteem, trauma, grief and loss, or other overwhelming stressors. I offer a safe space and a strengths based, client centered approach to promote healing and improve the quality of your life. Now accepting new clients for in-person or telehealth in English or Spanish.
(540) 401-8028 View (540) 401-8028
Photo of Sarah Mahnaz Vanlandingham, Psychologist in Leesburg, VA
Sarah Mahnaz Vanlandingham
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20176
Dr. Sarah M. Vanlandingham is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in psychological assessment and psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, and young adults. She employs a variety of psychological methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and interpersonal conceptual models and techniques to address a variety of difficulties. Dr. Vanlandingham is dedicated to providing comprehensive, reliable, evidenced-based psychological services. Her commitment to quality and patient outcomes always takes priority over volume.
Dr. Sarah M. Vanlandingham is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in psychological assessment and psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, and young adults. She employs a variety of psychological methods including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and interpersonal conceptual models and techniques to address a variety of difficulties. Dr. Vanlandingham is dedicated to providing comprehensive, reliable, evidenced-based psychological services. Her commitment to quality and patient outcomes always takes priority over volume.
(540) 202-1475 View (540) 202-1475
Photo of Matthew Sims, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, VA
Matthew Sims
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
Does it look like you've got everything together on the outside, but on the inside you're going through the wringer? Dealing with stress, anxiety, or negative self-talk? Having a tough time at home, in school, or on the playing field? Life can be hell sometimes... but you're not alone, and I'm here to help. I typically work with teens, college students, and young adults who are looking to get more out of life and push through challenges.
Does it look like you've got everything together on the outside, but on the inside you're going through the wringer? Dealing with stress, anxiety, or negative self-talk? Having a tough time at home, in school, or on the playing field? Life can be hell sometimes... but you're not alone, and I'm here to help. I typically work with teens, college students, and young adults who are looking to get more out of life and push through challenges.
(540) 518-0602 View (540) 518-0602
Photo of Betsy Snow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, VA
Betsy Snow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My experience includes working with individuals of various ages to address topics such as addiction, learning about their mental health diagnosis, depression, anxiety, OCD, family conflict, life changes, and history of abuse. Each discussion is specific to your needs and what makes you feel most comfortable. My goal is to work with you and help you identify the goals you want to achieve and the best path to take to get there.
My experience includes working with individuals of various ages to address topics such as addiction, learning about their mental health diagnosis, depression, anxiety, OCD, family conflict, life changes, and history of abuse. Each discussion is specific to your needs and what makes you feel most comfortable. My goal is to work with you and help you identify the goals you want to achieve and the best path to take to get there.
(540) 924-1693 View (540) 924-1693
Photo of Liz Witmer, Psychologist in Leesburg, VA
Liz Witmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Not accepting new clients
When we feel trapped by the way we think and feel about our lives, we lose hope. I help people to create a new narrative that reveals their strengths, abilities, and resilience. I help anxious and depressed students reach their potential, survivors of traumatic experiences seek posttraumatic growth, mothers who are adjusting to their new role to thrive, and emerging adults struggling with issues of identity development to explore their history of experiences in a nonjudgmental way. Clients who work with me find that they connect more deeply with loved ones and find profound meaning in their lives.
When we feel trapped by the way we think and feel about our lives, we lose hope. I help people to create a new narrative that reveals their strengths, abilities, and resilience. I help anxious and depressed students reach their potential, survivors of traumatic experiences seek posttraumatic growth, mothers who are adjusting to their new role to thrive, and emerging adults struggling with issues of identity development to explore their history of experiences in a nonjudgmental way. Clients who work with me find that they connect more deeply with loved ones and find profound meaning in their lives.
(571) 386-2797 View (571) 386-2797
Photo of Alex Ribbentrop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, VA
Alex Ribbentrop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, EMDR, CFTP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
I work with motivated individuals and families who are ready to address problem areas, develop insight, and identify what is of most value and meaning in their lives. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, especially as it relates to family system and relationship issues, life stressors and transitions, and substance use disorders. In addition to my clinical practice I speak nationally on these topics and work as a clinical consultant. I believe in providing quality, authentic, and clinically informed care that identifies and addresses the root causes of problems and barriers to living a more meaningful life.
I work with motivated individuals and families who are ready to address problem areas, develop insight, and identify what is of most value and meaning in their lives. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, especially as it relates to family system and relationship issues, life stressors and transitions, and substance use disorders. In addition to my clinical practice I speak nationally on these topics and work as a clinical consultant. I believe in providing quality, authentic, and clinically informed care that identifies and addresses the root causes of problems and barriers to living a more meaningful life.
(571) 556-6361 View (571) 556-6361
Photo of Rebecca O'Neill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, VA
Rebecca O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAS
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
I'm a passionate neurodiversity-affirming therapist specializing in developmental/relationship-based early intervention (DIR/Floortime & PLAY Project trained), play therapy, and strengths/interests-based approaches across the lifespan. I'm devoted to leveraging play's therapeutic potential for emotional well-being: Beyond childhood, play enriches lives! As a Certified Geek Therapist, Therapeutic Dungeon Master, and Problematic Gaming Specialist, I merge clients' passions with evidence-based approaches (ACT, CBT, Mindfulness) for growth and healing, addressing a variety of mental health needs.
I'm a passionate neurodiversity-affirming therapist specializing in developmental/relationship-based early intervention (DIR/Floortime & PLAY Project trained), play therapy, and strengths/interests-based approaches across the lifespan. I'm devoted to leveraging play's therapeutic potential for emotional well-being: Beyond childhood, play enriches lives! As a Certified Geek Therapist, Therapeutic Dungeon Master, and Problematic Gaming Specialist, I merge clients' passions with evidence-based approaches (ACT, CBT, Mindfulness) for growth and healing, addressing a variety of mental health needs.
(571) 556-8471 View (571) 556-8471
Photo of Hopeworks Counseling LLC , Pre-Licensed Professional in Leesburg, VA
Hopeworks Counseling LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, S-CSW, MSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20176  (Online Only)
Laura is a bilingual Spanish-speaking clinician. She believes that positive changes are made through relationships that are supportive while empowering the client to make their own choices. She has spent most of her career fostering safe and affirming environments and has made it her mission to normalize making mental health a priority. Laura is a supervisee in clinical social work and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. She is currently registered with the state and is working towards licensure.
Laura is a bilingual Spanish-speaking clinician. She believes that positive changes are made through relationships that are supportive while empowering the client to make their own choices. She has spent most of her career fostering safe and affirming environments and has made it her mission to normalize making mental health a priority. Laura is a supervisee in clinical social work and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. She is currently registered with the state and is working towards licensure.
(540) 264-3361 View (540) 264-3361
Photo of Connections Health Center LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Leesburg, VA
Connections Health Center LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, LCPC, C-DBT, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
I enjoy working with clients where they are and helping them to work through the difficult situations they are experiencing. Each person has their own unique gifts and strengths that they can learn to depend on. The transition through life can be a very difficult time for both the patient and their family. My goals when working with patients are to help them increase their communication, teach them to embrace differences, help them accept themselves and empower them to tell their own story to find out who they want to be. I have worked with a vast variety of patients from residential, acute, crisis, PHP and IOP services.
I enjoy working with clients where they are and helping them to work through the difficult situations they are experiencing. Each person has their own unique gifts and strengths that they can learn to depend on. The transition through life can be a very difficult time for both the patient and their family. My goals when working with patients are to help them increase their communication, teach them to embrace differences, help them accept themselves and empower them to tell their own story to find out who they want to be. I have worked with a vast variety of patients from residential, acute, crisis, PHP and IOP services.
(571) 378-3979 View (571) 378-3979
Photo of Lindsay Sobolewski Rohde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Leesburg, VA
Lindsay Sobolewski Rohde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176  (Online Only)
Update: Only taking telehealth clients. Hello! My name is Lindsay, and I look forward to meeting you. I have over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, helping individuals with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, low self-esteem, trauma, self-harm, family conflict and interpersonal struggles. I am passionate about working with adolescents, adults and families. If you are having a difficult time coping with feelings, or need a safe place to discuss your issues, I am happy to help. My goal is for all my clients to have a positive and beneficial therapeutic experience.
Update: Only taking telehealth clients. Hello! My name is Lindsay, and I look forward to meeting you. I have over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, helping individuals with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, low self-esteem, trauma, self-harm, family conflict and interpersonal struggles. I am passionate about working with adolescents, adults and families. If you are having a difficult time coping with feelings, or need a safe place to discuss your issues, I am happy to help. My goal is for all my clients to have a positive and beneficial therapeutic experience.
(571) 207-6033 View (571) 207-6033

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Leesburg, VA

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Leesburg, VA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
75% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
71% Relationship Issues
64% Trauma and PTSD
58% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Cigna and Evernorth
66% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Aetna

How Therapists in Leesburg, VA see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Leesburg?

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.