Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Zanita B Zody, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Zanita B Zody
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
(971) 351-2835 View (971) 351-2835
Photo of Kate Degenhardt, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Kate Degenhardt
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
Is your child struggling with OCD or anxiety? Are you a teen who feels overwhelmed with stress, academic or social pressure, anxiety, or just feeling like you don’t belong? Are you a parent who wants some concrete tools and strategies to help best support your adolescent? You are not alone and there are things that can help. I provide evidence-based psychotherapy for kids and teens ages 8-18 and their parents. Working with adolescents who struggle with OCD is both my specialty and my passion. My clients also often struggle with depression, chronic pain or illness, trauma, or adjustment to disability in addition to their anxiety.
Is your child struggling with OCD or anxiety? Are you a teen who feels overwhelmed with stress, academic or social pressure, anxiety, or just feeling like you don’t belong? Are you a parent who wants some concrete tools and strategies to help best support your adolescent? You are not alone and there are things that can help. I provide evidence-based psychotherapy for kids and teens ages 8-18 and their parents. Working with adolescents who struggle with OCD is both my specialty and my passion. My clients also often struggle with depression, chronic pain or illness, trauma, or adjustment to disability in addition to their anxiety.
(971) 364-3794 View (971) 364-3794
Photo of Portland Behavioral Therapy, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Portland Behavioral Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
At Portland Behavioral Therapy, Dr. Conterno utilizes concepts and approaches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and she has specific training and experience using these therapies to treat anxiety disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Through the integration of mindfulness, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and other cognitive-behavioral interventions, Dr. Conterno helps her clients learn new skills to more effectively overcome and manage mental health challenges and situational stressors.
At Portland Behavioral Therapy, Dr. Conterno utilizes concepts and approaches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and she has specific training and experience using these therapies to treat anxiety disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Through the integration of mindfulness, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and other cognitive-behavioral interventions, Dr. Conterno helps her clients learn new skills to more effectively overcome and manage mental health challenges and situational stressors.
(971) 999-3247 View (971) 999-3247
Photo of Graham Sterling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Graham Sterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
It is my philosophy that each of us are on a path that encompasses understanding who we are in relation to our surroundings. Answers are found through interpersonal connections and within ourselves. It is my job to offer a safe, supportive space and the skilled assistance that allows you to discover your strengths and the tools necessary to overcome life's hurdles.
It is my philosophy that each of us are on a path that encompasses understanding who we are in relation to our surroundings. Answers are found through interpersonal connections and within ourselves. It is my job to offer a safe, supportive space and the skilled assistance that allows you to discover your strengths and the tools necessary to overcome life's hurdles.
(503) 980-1413 View (503) 980-1413
Photo of Jr Fisher, Psychological Associate in Portland, OR
Jr Fisher
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My style is warm, direct and collaborative. I aim to identify patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating that limit one’s ability to pursue their goals. These patterns are often the legacy of successful coping at an earlier stage of life, but no longer serve one’s best interest. Exploring the underlying forces can open space to make new choices, grow, and alleviate suffering.
My style is warm, direct and collaborative. I aim to identify patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating that limit one’s ability to pursue their goals. These patterns are often the legacy of successful coping at an earlier stage of life, but no longer serve one’s best interest. Exploring the underlying forces can open space to make new choices, grow, and alleviate suffering.
(971) 315-4973 View (971) 315-4973
Photo of Julia G Chapman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Julia G Chapman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97280  (Online Only)
I believe therapy has the power to transform people's lives and improve their relationships. My approach is collaborative and relational. In therapy, I work with clients to develop concrete goals and tools to increase confidence in themselves and in their relationships. I also assist clients in processing how past experiences may contribute to insecurities, unhelpful patterns in relationships, and professional dissatisfaction. Throughout the therapy process I help empower clients to change their life narratives by expressing and pursuing what they want in their lives.
I believe therapy has the power to transform people's lives and improve their relationships. My approach is collaborative and relational. In therapy, I work with clients to develop concrete goals and tools to increase confidence in themselves and in their relationships. I also assist clients in processing how past experiences may contribute to insecurities, unhelpful patterns in relationships, and professional dissatisfaction. Throughout the therapy process I help empower clients to change their life narratives by expressing and pursuing what they want in their lives.
(503) 751-8460 View (503) 751-8460
Photo of Dr. Luke R. Allen, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Luke R. Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(971) 715-0631 View (971) 715-0631
Photo of Fumiyo Nishimoto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Fumiyo Nishimoto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is writing your own story as we embrace the ‘self as inherently fluid’ and that all individuals are capable of crafting new and empowering stories that include a new sense of self. This is a healing journey, and I'm here to connect with you to explore together the trauma, grief, and other challenging life experiences that prevent you from healing, growing and living the fulfilling life you are seeking.
Therapy is writing your own story as we embrace the ‘self as inherently fluid’ and that all individuals are capable of crafting new and empowering stories that include a new sense of self. This is a healing journey, and I'm here to connect with you to explore together the trauma, grief, and other challenging life experiences that prevent you from healing, growing and living the fulfilling life you are seeking.
(971) 231-2579 View (971) 231-2579
Photo of Mary Kevin Holdeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Mary Kevin Holdeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADCII
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have found that I work best with people wanting to honor their positive assets while making changes that will support new goals. Those feeling stuck, ready to dive deep, willing to do work outside of our sessions to create change in their lives. While my approach is gentle and respectful, I am ready to help you face your concerns frankly and honestly. I consider our therapeutic relationship to be the most important factor in our work together.
I have found that I work best with people wanting to honor their positive assets while making changes that will support new goals. Those feeling stuck, ready to dive deep, willing to do work outside of our sessions to create change in their lives. While my approach is gentle and respectful, I am ready to help you face your concerns frankly and honestly. I consider our therapeutic relationship to be the most important factor in our work together.
(503) 406-4826 View (503) 406-4826
Photo of Danielle Render Turmaud, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Danielle Render Turmaud
Professional Counselor Associate, PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In life, having a space where we can be seen, heard, accepted, and valued can be invaluable. My ultimate aim is to provide a counseling environment characterized by compassion and unconditional positive regard where together we can meet you authentically for who you are, right where you are, wherever that is. Whether you are coming to therapy for trauma, anxiety, depression, or something else, I believe in a collaborative journey that provides a space for you to be, explore, grow, and heal.
In life, having a space where we can be seen, heard, accepted, and valued can be invaluable. My ultimate aim is to provide a counseling environment characterized by compassion and unconditional positive regard where together we can meet you authentically for who you are, right where you are, wherever that is. Whether you are coming to therapy for trauma, anxiety, depression, or something else, I believe in a collaborative journey that provides a space for you to be, explore, grow, and heal.
(971) 232-3137 View (971) 232-3137
Photo of Molly Bowen, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Molly Bowen
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
We treat symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and disorder, etc. from an intention to alleviate or change. This may bring temporary relief but it dismisses the wisdom of these internal states. When we can connect to our whole experience, we learn to be with all aspects of ourselves in a way that naturally brings a sense of aliveness to the vast experience of being human. This aliveness shows us who we are, how to be, and in what way to be of service to the world. It is a guide for meaning and beauty, showing us how to heal and remember what truly provides a sense of well being for our lives.
We treat symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and disorder, etc. from an intention to alleviate or change. This may bring temporary relief but it dismisses the wisdom of these internal states. When we can connect to our whole experience, we learn to be with all aspects of ourselves in a way that naturally brings a sense of aliveness to the vast experience of being human. This aliveness shows us who we are, how to be, and in what way to be of service to the world. It is a guide for meaning and beauty, showing us how to heal and remember what truly provides a sense of well being for our lives.
(971) 350-9027 View (971) 350-9027
Photo of Anne M Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Anne M Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
When life presents challenges to your mental health or relationships there is an opportunity for resourcefulness, resilience and hope. Working with me is one way to find your path forward through difficult times. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps forward toward change
When life presents challenges to your mental health or relationships there is an opportunity for resourcefulness, resilience and hope. Working with me is one way to find your path forward through difficult times. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps forward toward change
(503) 749-9086 View (503) 749-9086
Photo of Christine M Bethel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Christine M Bethel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
You are happy and successful, the one people come to for help, the couple others admire, the fixer. What no one knows is that on the inside, behind closed doors, you feel like a mess. Maybe you even worry you're permanently damaged or that your relationship has experienced too much pain and resentment to recover. The isolation of keeping it together for the world makes the exhaustion, worry, and unhappiness even heavier. You are not alone and you are not doomed to this place forever. You can be ok, you can feel happier, your relationship can be fulfilling again.
You are happy and successful, the one people come to for help, the couple others admire, the fixer. What no one knows is that on the inside, behind closed doors, you feel like a mess. Maybe you even worry you're permanently damaged or that your relationship has experienced too much pain and resentment to recover. The isolation of keeping it together for the world makes the exhaustion, worry, and unhappiness even heavier. You are not alone and you are not doomed to this place forever. You can be ok, you can feel happier, your relationship can be fulfilling again.
(336) 447-1692 View (336) 447-1692
Photo of Spencer Uemura, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Spencer Uemura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Through a social justice lens, I accompany people on their journey to a more grounded and liberated life by exploring how our intersecting identities and cultural experiences have led to the ways we are hurt, but also hold the keys to how we heal. For my clients, these layers of oppression may result in anxiety, depression, and racial identity concerns. We'll work together to process your experience, draw out your strengths, and support your goals. I love working with Asian American adults, and other POC, to connect the impacts of history, oppression, and culture on mental health and wellbeing.
Through a social justice lens, I accompany people on their journey to a more grounded and liberated life by exploring how our intersecting identities and cultural experiences have led to the ways we are hurt, but also hold the keys to how we heal. For my clients, these layers of oppression may result in anxiety, depression, and racial identity concerns. We'll work together to process your experience, draw out your strengths, and support your goals. I love working with Asian American adults, and other POC, to connect the impacts of history, oppression, and culture on mental health and wellbeing.
(503) 300-6128 View (503) 300-6128
Photo of Kimberly Fuller, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Kimberly Fuller
Professional Counselor Associate, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am a Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon and a National Certified Counselor. I was born and raised in Central Oregon, and I feel blessed to call myself an Oregonian. I enjoy art, nature, traveling & spending time with family. I received my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling & have completed extensive specialty training courses required for the ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) Certification. I also have experience working with trauma, anxiety, & depression.
I am a Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon and a National Certified Counselor. I was born and raised in Central Oregon, and I feel blessed to call myself an Oregonian. I enjoy art, nature, traveling & spending time with family. I received my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling & have completed extensive specialty training courses required for the ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) Certification. I also have experience working with trauma, anxiety, & depression.
(971) 318-6509 View (971) 318-6509
Photo of Sonya Shepsis, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Sonya Shepsis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
You may feel lonely, dissatisfied and unhappy with your life at this point. You may feel stuck and want to try psychotherapy as a way to help you understand how to live a fuller and more meaningful life. In a safe therapeutic environment we will work together to help you understand yourself better, to see patterns in your past and current life and to overcome challenges that you are facing now. When people gain insight through the process of psychotherapy they find that their relationships at home, at work and with friends improve, they feel emotionally healthier and begin to enjoy achieving their goals.
You may feel lonely, dissatisfied and unhappy with your life at this point. You may feel stuck and want to try psychotherapy as a way to help you understand how to live a fuller and more meaningful life. In a safe therapeutic environment we will work together to help you understand yourself better, to see patterns in your past and current life and to overcome challenges that you are facing now. When people gain insight through the process of psychotherapy they find that their relationships at home, at work and with friends improve, they feel emotionally healthier and begin to enjoy achieving their goals.
(503) 376-6285 View (503) 376-6285
Photo of Lisa Pace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Lisa Pace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is helpful! Deciding to engage in therapy may not be an easy decision; I assure that you will be met with warmth, compassion and respect. I incorporate a mindfulness approach to treatment and utilize acceptance and change strategies to help you reach your goals. My approach is collaborative, welcoming and non-judgmental. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been working in the field since 2007. I have experience working in varied settings including community mental health center's, hospital/ER settings, Portland DBT Institute, Inc and private practice.
Therapy is helpful! Deciding to engage in therapy may not be an easy decision; I assure that you will be met with warmth, compassion and respect. I incorporate a mindfulness approach to treatment and utilize acceptance and change strategies to help you reach your goals. My approach is collaborative, welcoming and non-judgmental. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been working in the field since 2007. I have experience working in varied settings including community mental health center's, hospital/ER settings, Portland DBT Institute, Inc and private practice.
(503) 406-6254 View (503) 406-6254
Photo of Teresa R Field, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Teresa R Field
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Relationship to Self is the foundation for all of our relationships, including our connections to the landscapes in which we live and through which we travel. I provide a relaxed therapeutic environment, often incorporating humor, where we can collaborate to identify and build upon existing strengths, deepen insights, expand mind/body connections, and increase motivation to move forward on a preferred path. My direct, interactive approach, combined with deep compassion, respectfully supports my clients’ healing process, inviting them more fully into the present and more fully into their embodied, authentic Self.
Relationship to Self is the foundation for all of our relationships, including our connections to the landscapes in which we live and through which we travel. I provide a relaxed therapeutic environment, often incorporating humor, where we can collaborate to identify and build upon existing strengths, deepen insights, expand mind/body connections, and increase motivation to move forward on a preferred path. My direct, interactive approach, combined with deep compassion, respectfully supports my clients’ healing process, inviting them more fully into the present and more fully into their embodied, authentic Self.
(971) 328-4809 View (971) 328-4809
Photo of Jill Hsieh, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Jill Hsieh
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
人生往往會面臨各種挑戰,我們時常會感到絕望與囚禁。事實上擁有負面的想法與信念或感到人生無動力都是在人生道路上很常見的。當你受到情緒與想法上的折磨是可以很痛苦且影響你的日常作息,但是要記住「沒有關西,是可以感到心情低落的!」。情緒與想法皆是非常的雜亂的東西因此讓我一起解析你的情緒與抉擇幫助你往心靈上自我實現的道路走。
人生往往會面臨各種挑戰,我們時常會感到絕望與囚禁。事實上擁有負面的想法與信念或感到人生無動力都是在人生道路上很常見的。當你受到情緒與想法上的折磨是可以很痛苦且影響你的日常作息,但是要記住「沒有關西,是可以感到心情低落的!」。情緒與想法皆是非常的雜亂的東西因此讓我一起解析你的情緒與抉擇幫助你往心靈上自我實現的道路走。
(503) 755-9351 View (503) 755-9351
Photo of Shayna MacLean, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Shayna MacLean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Shayna and it's nice to meet you. I currently have openings for new clients. I am passionate about serving marginalized communities who have previously experienced harm within the mental health system as a result of institutionalized biases. Additionally, I specialize in working with folx transitioning into adulthood, individuals exploring their various identities including gender and sexuality identities, and survivors of trauma related to domestic violence and sexual assault. I have passion in serving the LGBTQ+ community and identify as part of the community. Trauma informed therapy is the basis for my work.
Hello my name is Shayna and it's nice to meet you. I currently have openings for new clients. I am passionate about serving marginalized communities who have previously experienced harm within the mental health system as a result of institutionalized biases. Additionally, I specialize in working with folx transitioning into adulthood, individuals exploring their various identities including gender and sexuality identities, and survivors of trauma related to domestic violence and sexual assault. I have passion in serving the LGBTQ+ community and identify as part of the community. Trauma informed therapy is the basis for my work.
(503) 212-6681 View (503) 212-6681

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.