Therapists in Bozeman, MT

Photo of Marianne Jackson Amsden, Counselor in Bozeman, MT
Marianne Jackson Amsden
Counselor, MS, SEP, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about facilitating wellbeing. My hope is to help people live free--free to discover and reach their potential. I work from Gestalt theory, which is a holistic, integrative perspective that considers mind, body, spirit, and your environment. Additionally, I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. SE is a comprehensive, body-centered & naturalistic method of healing trauma. Through traditional talk therapy and creative, experiential, body-centered methods, I will help you build awareness of your unique adaptations to your environment to allow a natural shift to healthier and more fulfilling responses to life.
I am passionate about facilitating wellbeing. My hope is to help people live free--free to discover and reach their potential. I work from Gestalt theory, which is a holistic, integrative perspective that considers mind, body, spirit, and your environment. Additionally, I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. SE is a comprehensive, body-centered & naturalistic method of healing trauma. Through traditional talk therapy and creative, experiential, body-centered methods, I will help you build awareness of your unique adaptations to your environment to allow a natural shift to healthier and more fulfilling responses to life.
(406) 414-7669 View (406) 414-7669
Photo of Hilary Burt, Counselor in Bozeman, MT
Hilary Burt
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I aim to provide warm and productive therapeutic environment for my clients. I understand that maladaptive beliefs and feeling disconnected from one’s values can contribute to suffering and feeling stuck. Past experiences inevitability shape our lens about the world and ourselves, and I help clients to identify and understand that lens. I support clients to develop awareness of the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and I help them to identify and connect with their chosen values.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I aim to provide warm and productive therapeutic environment for my clients. I understand that maladaptive beliefs and feeling disconnected from one’s values can contribute to suffering and feeling stuck. Past experiences inevitability shape our lens about the world and ourselves, and I help clients to identify and understand that lens. I support clients to develop awareness of the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and I help them to identify and connect with their chosen values.
(406) 350-7912 View (406) 350-7912
Photo of Megan Hunsaker, Psychologist in Bozeman, MT
Megan Hunsaker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59772  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize evidence based therapies such as CBT and mindfulness based strategies with the intent of helping clients reach their goals and increase their quality of life. I have received specialized training in CBT-Insomnia. I have also received certification in Pain Reprocessing Therapy, CBT-Chronic Pain and Empowered Relief which is a 2 hour skill building class for chronic pain. I offer individual therapy, skill building classes and individual intensives. Individual intensives encompass 3-9 hours of work over the course of 2-3 days where you will learn about pain or sleep and gain personalized skills for self management.
I utilize evidence based therapies such as CBT and mindfulness based strategies with the intent of helping clients reach their goals and increase their quality of life. I have received specialized training in CBT-Insomnia. I have also received certification in Pain Reprocessing Therapy, CBT-Chronic Pain and Empowered Relief which is a 2 hour skill building class for chronic pain. I offer individual therapy, skill building classes and individual intensives. Individual intensives encompass 3-9 hours of work over the course of 2-3 days where you will learn about pain or sleep and gain personalized skills for self management.
(406) 393-8494 View (406) 393-8494
Photo of Jessica Lenneman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bozeman, MT
Jessica Lenneman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59718
Not accepting new clients
I consider my greatest therapeutic focus to be trauma-recovery work. My areas of expertise include: trauma, abuse, sexual/physical abuse, divorce, conflictual relationships, traumatic life events, and post-partum mood disorders. I also support those with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, school or work struggles, parenting challenges, and difficult life events. I also have extensive background teaching gender identity classes to professionals and working with individuals struggling with their own gender/sexual identity. I also have a special interest in supervising new social workers and counselors, and am currently accepting new.
I consider my greatest therapeutic focus to be trauma-recovery work. My areas of expertise include: trauma, abuse, sexual/physical abuse, divorce, conflictual relationships, traumatic life events, and post-partum mood disorders. I also support those with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, school or work struggles, parenting challenges, and difficult life events. I also have extensive background teaching gender identity classes to professionals and working with individuals struggling with their own gender/sexual identity. I also have a special interest in supervising new social workers and counselors, and am currently accepting new.
(406) 283-3241 View (406) 283-3241
Photo of Clarity Counseling, Counselor in Bozeman, MT
Clarity Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPCC-S, NCC, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
When the rhythm of your life is interrupted, establishing a safe connection is the first and foremost goal of treatment. With warmth, creativity, sharp diagnostic minds and effective treatment skills, the clinicians at Clarity Counseling offer a soft place to land, where you can feel confident in the care you receive. We provide treatment options that foster new neural development, create a capacity for deeper connection, and help restore a sense of balance and health to your life and relationships. We offer varied and cutting edge approaches from knowledgable clinicians, and flexible fees to meet your needs.
When the rhythm of your life is interrupted, establishing a safe connection is the first and foremost goal of treatment. With warmth, creativity, sharp diagnostic minds and effective treatment skills, the clinicians at Clarity Counseling offer a soft place to land, where you can feel confident in the care you receive. We provide treatment options that foster new neural development, create a capacity for deeper connection, and help restore a sense of balance and health to your life and relationships. We offer varied and cutting edge approaches from knowledgable clinicians, and flexible fees to meet your needs.
(406) 412-6216 View (406) 412-6216
Photo of Ben Yeomans, Counselor in Bozeman, MT
Ben Yeomans
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
Worry, sadness, relationship clashes, avoidance and body pain can be invitations to step back and look inward. What’s going on for you? I believe your genuine answer opens the door to a different experience. This is not an intellectual exercise. It can be uncomfortable. But it can also feel like a relief, as things around you start to shift. If you want something different coming towards you in your life or in your relationship, I am here to support you as you reshape your life and relationships with the people around you. I believe growth wants to happen and counseling can be a great way to set the stage for it to occur.
Worry, sadness, relationship clashes, avoidance and body pain can be invitations to step back and look inward. What’s going on for you? I believe your genuine answer opens the door to a different experience. This is not an intellectual exercise. It can be uncomfortable. But it can also feel like a relief, as things around you start to shift. If you want something different coming towards you in your life or in your relationship, I am here to support you as you reshape your life and relationships with the people around you. I believe growth wants to happen and counseling can be a great way to set the stage for it to occur.
(406) 295-6501 View (406) 295-6501
Photo of Sarah Marsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bozeman, MT
Sarah Marsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
I specialize in supporting family dynamics and attachment challenges. Many times, parents and children experience disruptions in their attachment, leading to changes in their family dynamics that can have a profound impact on their physical and mental health. The primary goal of our sessions is to reestablish more secure family patterns where attachment and caregiving responses become more effective and emotional bonds are repaired. My mission is to help families thrive by providing the tools and guidance necessary to build strong, lasting connections that foster overall well-being.
I specialize in supporting family dynamics and attachment challenges. Many times, parents and children experience disruptions in their attachment, leading to changes in their family dynamics that can have a profound impact on their physical and mental health. The primary goal of our sessions is to reestablish more secure family patterns where attachment and caregiving responses become more effective and emotional bonds are repaired. My mission is to help families thrive by providing the tools and guidance necessary to build strong, lasting connections that foster overall well-being.
(406) 430-1840 View (406) 430-1840
Cally Knapp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
People seek therapy for all kinds of reasons. Many are looking for support as they navigate current situations, decisions, and relationships in their lives. Many are looking for change. Change in their internal experience and emotions, change in their pattern of thinking or behavior, or change in their relationships with themselves or others. I enjoy working with clients to understand how their unique experiences have shaped who they are and inform their life in the present.
People seek therapy for all kinds of reasons. Many are looking for support as they navigate current situations, decisions, and relationships in their lives. Many are looking for change. Change in their internal experience and emotions, change in their pattern of thinking or behavior, or change in their relationships with themselves or others. I enjoy working with clients to understand how their unique experiences have shaped who they are and inform their life in the present.
(406) 630-4410 View (406) 630-4410
Photo of Jeffrey K. Ellens Ph.d., Psychologist in Bozeman, MT
Jeffrey K. Ellens Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
If you want counseling to be a SUCCESS, then the most important thing is your FIRST step – getting connected with the “right” therapist, not just any therapist! And that’s where I come in; as the owner and clinical director of Lotus Counseling, I will use my 15+ years of licensed clinical experience to help you find a clinician who is a strong fit for you and your specific presenting concerns. We will use a 45-60 minute (free!) phone consultation to talk about all the relevant details of your life and presenting concerns to make absolutely sure that by the time you are matched with a therapist, it’s the RIGHT therapist!
If you want counseling to be a SUCCESS, then the most important thing is your FIRST step – getting connected with the “right” therapist, not just any therapist! And that’s where I come in; as the owner and clinical director of Lotus Counseling, I will use my 15+ years of licensed clinical experience to help you find a clinician who is a strong fit for you and your specific presenting concerns. We will use a 45-60 minute (free!) phone consultation to talk about all the relevant details of your life and presenting concerns to make absolutely sure that by the time you are matched with a therapist, it’s the RIGHT therapist!
(406) 565-4976 View (406) 565-4976
Photo of Tobi Bakken, Counselor in Bozeman, MT
Tobi Bakken
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
Not accepting new clients
Do you find yourself struggling to communicate clearly with your loved ones? Do you ever feel like you and/or your partner lack the skills tools needed to be happy or successful in your relationship? You are not alone, and there is hope! Deeper emotional connection comes as a result of vulnerability, empathy, and safe and open communication, all of which can be learned and practiced just like any other skill. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or avoidance, or feel stuck in a negative pattern in your relationship, I am here for you.
Do you find yourself struggling to communicate clearly with your loved ones? Do you ever feel like you and/or your partner lack the skills tools needed to be happy or successful in your relationship? You are not alone, and there is hope! Deeper emotional connection comes as a result of vulnerability, empathy, and safe and open communication, all of which can be learned and practiced just like any other skill. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or avoidance, or feel stuck in a negative pattern in your relationship, I am here for you.
(406) 225-7795 View (406) 225-7795
Photo of Kelly Ryan, Counselor in Bozeman, MT
Kelly Ryan
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
If you are going through pain, difficult transitions, or looking for growth and insight, this is the place. Whether your suffering is caused by emotional, physical, or relational distress, you are not alone and you can heal. My desire as a therapist is to bring compassionate curiosity towards your experience, while fostering personal growth and overall wellness. My hope is that through our work, you gain the freedom to feel lovable and valuable as you are right now, make healthy choices in relationships and life that align with your values, and build successful coping tools to navigate whatever unknowns life throws your way.
If you are going through pain, difficult transitions, or looking for growth and insight, this is the place. Whether your suffering is caused by emotional, physical, or relational distress, you are not alone and you can heal. My desire as a therapist is to bring compassionate curiosity towards your experience, while fostering personal growth and overall wellness. My hope is that through our work, you gain the freedom to feel lovable and valuable as you are right now, make healthy choices in relationships and life that align with your values, and build successful coping tools to navigate whatever unknowns life throws your way.
(406) 642-8432 View (406) 642-8432
Photo of Rosanna Maria, Counselor in Bozeman, MT
Rosanna Maria
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
I work with women who want freedom from what haunts them. Women who are willing and ready to do the work to free themselves from the grip of whatever holds them. Addiction, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, a traumatic event, unhealthy relationships, you name it. Our past experiences coupled with our current modern society deeply affect our ability to find balance within our minds, bodies, and spirits. Healing is about returning to balance in these three areas. What does that look like?
I work with women who want freedom from what haunts them. Women who are willing and ready to do the work to free themselves from the grip of whatever holds them. Addiction, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, a traumatic event, unhealthy relationships, you name it. Our past experiences coupled with our current modern society deeply affect our ability to find balance within our minds, bodies, and spirits. Healing is about returning to balance in these three areas. What does that look like?
(406) 412-1187 View (406) 412-1187
Photo of Kim Moody, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bozeman, MT
Kim Moody
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Not accepting new clients
Not Currently Accepting New Clients. I believe in the power of voicing one's struggles and fears, no matter how scary or uncomfortable that might be. Do you feel suffocated by depression, anxiety, or the stress of recent events? Do you feel like you’ve tried everything but you just can’t shake it? It can be hard to see how we keep ourselves stuck. Each of us learns to cope with our struggles differently: through humor, isolation, perfectionism, work, alcohol, or seeking the approval of others. After awhile, these things may no longer serve us. You want to be your best self. You want to feel better. I can help you get there.
Not Currently Accepting New Clients. I believe in the power of voicing one's struggles and fears, no matter how scary or uncomfortable that might be. Do you feel suffocated by depression, anxiety, or the stress of recent events? Do you feel like you’ve tried everything but you just can’t shake it? It can be hard to see how we keep ourselves stuck. Each of us learns to cope with our struggles differently: through humor, isolation, perfectionism, work, alcohol, or seeking the approval of others. After awhile, these things may no longer serve us. You want to be your best self. You want to feel better. I can help you get there.
(406) 209-9223 View (406) 209-9223
Photo of Elizabeth K Langley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bozeman, MT
Elizabeth K Langley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
Your present circumstances don’t determine where you go; they merely determine where you start. — Nido Qubein
Your present circumstances don’t determine where you go; they merely determine where you start. — Nido Qubein
(406) 319-3394 View (406) 319-3394
Photo of Chloe Schuh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bozeman, MT
Chloe Schuh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715  (Online Only)
Are you feeling generally overwhelmed, stuck or lonely in your life or relationships? Are there problems or patterns you're struggling to heal? Relationships have the capacity to affect our lives in really negative ways when they aren't safe and connected. I have a passion for helping couples explore and understand relational wounds so they can heal present problems and find relief from these negative impacts. When relationships are functioning well, they can be a profound source of healing and resiliency - I want my clients to experience this change in, and outside of, the therapy space.
Are you feeling generally overwhelmed, stuck or lonely in your life or relationships? Are there problems or patterns you're struggling to heal? Relationships have the capacity to affect our lives in really negative ways when they aren't safe and connected. I have a passion for helping couples explore and understand relational wounds so they can heal present problems and find relief from these negative impacts. When relationships are functioning well, they can be a profound source of healing and resiliency - I want my clients to experience this change in, and outside of, the therapy space.
(406) 306-7728 View (406) 306-7728
Photo of Ian Andrew Mascari, Professional Counselor Licensure Candidate in Bozeman, MT
Ian Andrew Mascari
Professional Counselor Licensure Candidate, PCLC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59715
I have a strong passion for helping families, couples, and individuals of all ages in their journey toward personal growth, understanding, and harmony. I believe that everyone is capable of having a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life. I focus on cultivating a supportive and empathetic space that will help you to get in touch with your inner desire for growth and self-betterment. Some areas of focus in my practice are relationship issues, improving communication skills, cultivating self-awareness, anxiety and stress management, ADHD, conflict resolution, and parent-child relationships
I have a strong passion for helping families, couples, and individuals of all ages in their journey toward personal growth, understanding, and harmony. I believe that everyone is capable of having a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life. I focus on cultivating a supportive and empathetic space that will help you to get in touch with your inner desire for growth and self-betterment. Some areas of focus in my practice are relationship issues, improving communication skills, cultivating self-awareness, anxiety and stress management, ADHD, conflict resolution, and parent-child relationships
(406) 296-4467 View (406) 296-4467
Photo of Amanda Fahlstrom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bozeman, MT
Amanda Fahlstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
A few summer daytime appointments anticipated in June. Imagine a world where growing up was easy and adulting was just as simple? There would be no peer relationship struggles, everyone had great self-esteem, angelic behaviors abounded, and traumatic life events never occurred. Heck, even our work and home lives were a breeze, we all had uncomplicated relationships, and mental health concerns did not exist. Unfortunately, we do face hard things. Therapy is a way to get help, guidance, and relief as you walk through the daily challenges of life. Are you ready for change? I bet you are!
A few summer daytime appointments anticipated in June. Imagine a world where growing up was easy and adulting was just as simple? There would be no peer relationship struggles, everyone had great self-esteem, angelic behaviors abounded, and traumatic life events never occurred. Heck, even our work and home lives were a breeze, we all had uncomplicated relationships, and mental health concerns did not exist. Unfortunately, we do face hard things. Therapy is a way to get help, guidance, and relief as you walk through the daily challenges of life. Are you ready for change? I bet you are!
(406) 296-5267 View (406) 296-5267
Photo of Sarah Shaw Knell, Counselor in Bozeman, MT
Sarah Shaw Knell
Counselor, MS, LCPC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bozeman, MT 59715
I approach therapy from an attachment based orientation. I believe healing happens in the context of relationship. I focus on the awareness of safety to foster secure relationships to address old patterns of coping and survival. I use the innate intelligence of the body to guide the healing process toward health and balance.
I approach therapy from an attachment based orientation. I believe healing happens in the context of relationship. I focus on the awareness of safety to foster secure relationships to address old patterns of coping and survival. I use the innate intelligence of the body to guide the healing process toward health and balance.
(406) 299-9123 View (406) 299-9123
Photo of Ashley E Livers, Counselor in Bozeman, MT
Ashley E Livers
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
Waitlist for new clients
The majority of clients who come to me are experiencing many different presenting challenges and are seeking assistance in processing emotions, managing life, in general, or wanting to work through trauma. We all want to navigate life in the best way possible and most of my clients are simply seeking help in becoming a happier, more grounded version of themselves.
The majority of clients who come to me are experiencing many different presenting challenges and are seeking assistance in processing emotions, managing life, in general, or wanting to work through trauma. We all want to navigate life in the best way possible and most of my clients are simply seeking help in becoming a happier, more grounded version of themselves.
(406) 602-0649 View (406) 602-0649
Photo of Elizabeth Stryker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bozeman, MT
Elizabeth Stryker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bozeman, MT 59718
Simply put--life can be challenging. Managing the ever changing shifts we encounter in our personal and professional lives can be difficult. These changes can disrupt our everyday routine, our mindset, and our overall well-being. Talking with a trusted professional can help alleviate the unsettling and distressing thoughts and feelings that arise. People from all walks of life benefit from sharing their worries, concerns, and story. I offer a safe and compassionate space for you to share everything on your mind and heart. Through a personalized approach, I hope to support you in finding balance in your life.
Simply put--life can be challenging. Managing the ever changing shifts we encounter in our personal and professional lives can be difficult. These changes can disrupt our everyday routine, our mindset, and our overall well-being. Talking with a trusted professional can help alleviate the unsettling and distressing thoughts and feelings that arise. People from all walks of life benefit from sharing their worries, concerns, and story. I offer a safe and compassionate space for you to share everything on your mind and heart. Through a personalized approach, I hope to support you in finding balance in your life.
(406) 225-7893 View (406) 225-7893

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bozeman, MT

400+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Bozeman, MT who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
81% Self Esteem
80% Relationship Issues
76% Trauma and PTSD
71% Coping Skills
71% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% Allegiance
81% PacificSource

How Therapists in Bozeman, MT see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bozeman?

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.