Therapists in Dallas, TX

View neighborhoods in Dallas
Photo of Fay Howell Lidji, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Fay Howell Lidji
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
Hi. I am Fay Lidji and I am a solutions oriented therapist. Counseling with me will show you how to improve relationships, help you change negative behavior patterns, and relieve the pain that brought you in. I work efficiently to help you gain a better perspective on your life, and then teach you new tools to bring about the desired change.
Hi. I am Fay Lidji and I am a solutions oriented therapist. Counseling with me will show you how to improve relationships, help you change negative behavior patterns, and relieve the pain that brought you in. I work efficiently to help you gain a better perspective on your life, and then teach you new tools to bring about the desired change.
(214) 838-7082 View (214) 838-7082
Photo of Anxiety And Relationships Hannah Dolliver in Dallas, TX
Anxiety And Relationships Hannah Dolliver
MA , LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Are you overwhelmed, anxious, and weary? I am honored to walk alongside people as they seek health and balance through counseling. I work with clients to begin to understand their intrinsic value, while working to develop healthier relationships, coping skills, healing from the past, and to dream about the future. Most often I work with young adults dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, post break- up recovery, family of origin issues, identity struggles, and indecision. I also work with couples to seek a healthier and more fulfilling relationship, through pre-engagement, premarital, and marriage counseling.
Are you overwhelmed, anxious, and weary? I am honored to walk alongside people as they seek health and balance through counseling. I work with clients to begin to understand their intrinsic value, while working to develop healthier relationships, coping skills, healing from the past, and to dream about the future. Most often I work with young adults dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, post break- up recovery, family of origin issues, identity struggles, and indecision. I also work with couples to seek a healthier and more fulfilling relationship, through pre-engagement, premarital, and marriage counseling.
(214) 624-7163 View (214) 624-7163
Photo of Susan Clynes, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Susan Clynes, MS, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231  (Online Only)
If you're considering therapy you may be struggling with a major life change or a relationship issue; possibly depression, anxiety or substance abuse has been sabotaging your life. I'd use my first session with you to do an assessment, find out what you want to focus on and let you know how I think I can help. Sometimes clients are focused on a particular problem or decision, other clients want help identifying and combating old assumptions or unhealthy patterns of behavior that may be getting in their way.
If you're considering therapy you may be struggling with a major life change or a relationship issue; possibly depression, anxiety or substance abuse has been sabotaging your life. I'd use my first session with you to do an assessment, find out what you want to focus on and let you know how I think I can help. Sometimes clients are focused on a particular problem or decision, other clients want help identifying and combating old assumptions or unhealthy patterns of behavior that may be getting in their way.
(214) 919-8407 View (214) 919-8407
Photo of Illumination Psychological Testing, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Illumination Psychological Testing
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LSSP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75252
Illumination Psychological Testing is a welcoming and approachable clinic that offers comprehensive psychological testing services to individuals of all ages starting at 18 months. We believe that each person has unique strengths and challenges, and our goal is to provide personalized and thorough assessments that help clients gain insight into their strengths, areas for growth, and potential treatment options. With a commitment to evidence-based practices and a focus on individualized care, IPT is a trusted partner for clients seeking to gain a better understanding of their mental health and wellbeing.
Illumination Psychological Testing is a welcoming and approachable clinic that offers comprehensive psychological testing services to individuals of all ages starting at 18 months. We believe that each person has unique strengths and challenges, and our goal is to provide personalized and thorough assessments that help clients gain insight into their strengths, areas for growth, and potential treatment options. With a commitment to evidence-based practices and a focus on individualized care, IPT is a trusted partner for clients seeking to gain a better understanding of their mental health and wellbeing.
(469) 946-9564 View (469) 946-9564
Photo of Shenella Karunaratne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Shenella Karunaratne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225
My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are at. Each individual deserves personalized treatment that is effective and long-lasting. My goal in therapy is to help you achieve your potential in any capacity you wish to pursue. I take a direct and challenging approach while creating a supportive and empowering relationship for you to reach your goals.
My approach to therapy is meeting you where you are at. Each individual deserves personalized treatment that is effective and long-lasting. My goal in therapy is to help you achieve your potential in any capacity you wish to pursue. I take a direct and challenging approach while creating a supportive and empowering relationship for you to reach your goals.
(469) 529-5970 View (469) 529-5970
Photo of Sharon Aguilar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Sharon Aguilar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
You have been wondering if maybe you are neurodivergent but don’t know where to start exploring this new identity. You have recently become a parent and realize you are having a hard time with the sensory aspects of parenthood. You are a new college student and realize that you have been masking, or hiding your authentic self, due to societal expectations. I am here to help, whether this is a new diagnosis, a self-diagnosis, or if you were diagnosed long ago and dealing with the potential trauma and affects related to a medicalized diagnosis.
You have been wondering if maybe you are neurodivergent but don’t know where to start exploring this new identity. You have recently become a parent and realize you are having a hard time with the sensory aspects of parenthood. You are a new college student and realize that you have been masking, or hiding your authentic self, due to societal expectations. I am here to help, whether this is a new diagnosis, a self-diagnosis, or if you were diagnosed long ago and dealing with the potential trauma and affects related to a medicalized diagnosis.
(469) 300-3823 View (469) 300-3823
Photo of Nestor Presas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Nestor Presas
Marriage & Family Therapist, ABD, LMFTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
A relationships expert focused on assisting individuals, couples and families to reconnect and experience relations that are sustainable, vibrant and engaged, while achieving their own definition of success. I work with individuals, families and couples who are stuck in patterns of interaction that don't seem to work by using a collaborative, evidence based, powerful and innovative style of therapy. I strive to be sensitive to your spiritual experience, your culture and your values. My expertise is in forging solid therapeutic alliances, through client validation, affirmative recognition of the client's rights and strengths and de-stigmatization of experiences
A relationships expert focused on assisting individuals, couples and families to reconnect and experience relations that are sustainable, vibrant and engaged, while achieving their own definition of success. I work with individuals, families and couples who are stuck in patterns of interaction that don't seem to work by using a collaborative, evidence based, powerful and innovative style of therapy. I strive to be sensitive to your spiritual experience, your culture and your values. My expertise is in forging solid therapeutic alliances, through client validation, affirmative recognition of the client's rights and strengths and de-stigmatization of experiences
(214) 296-0026 View (214) 296-0026
Photo of Aaron Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Dallas, TX
Aaron Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Have you been comparing yourself to others and frustrated with your own trajectory? Maybe you want to be hopeful but often wonder if the problem is you. Maybe you identify as LGBTQ+ and are looking for an unapologetically affirming environment. You may even have a strained or difficult relationship with religion that is affecting your adult life. Making the decision to pursue therapy can feel overwhelming initially. Exploring challenges in life can be scary. All of your feelings are valid and you deserve an environment to explore and consider the areas that life doesn’t always grant us time to navigate.
Have you been comparing yourself to others and frustrated with your own trajectory? Maybe you want to be hopeful but often wonder if the problem is you. Maybe you identify as LGBTQ+ and are looking for an unapologetically affirming environment. You may even have a strained or difficult relationship with religion that is affecting your adult life. Making the decision to pursue therapy can feel overwhelming initially. Exploring challenges in life can be scary. All of your feelings are valid and you deserve an environment to explore and consider the areas that life doesn’t always grant us time to navigate.
(469) 535-7159 View (469) 535-7159
Photo of Karla Hutcherson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Karla Hutcherson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244
I started Lifeline CMS to help bring healing to those suffering with depression, anxiety and related mood disorders. I have experience in multiple therapeutic settings including schools, private practice, foster care, family court system, and multiple service lines in a large hospital and medical institution. I focus on treating patients with evidence-based and integrative psycho-therapy models in individual, marriage and family, and group sessions as well as educational presentations and trainings. My goal is to guide you to build the skills you need to take back control of your mental and emotional health.
I started Lifeline CMS to help bring healing to those suffering with depression, anxiety and related mood disorders. I have experience in multiple therapeutic settings including schools, private practice, foster care, family court system, and multiple service lines in a large hospital and medical institution. I focus on treating patients with evidence-based and integrative psycho-therapy models in individual, marriage and family, and group sessions as well as educational presentations and trainings. My goal is to guide you to build the skills you need to take back control of your mental and emotional health.
(214) 239-2397 View (214) 239-2397
Photo of Mary Moses, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Mary Moses
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75248
As a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(469) 351-3876 View (469) 351-3876
Photo of Behavioral Health Providers, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Behavioral Health Providers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Waitlist for new clients
I offer neuropsychological evaluation and therapy utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy with my clients that are faced with challenges of mood disorders, neurocognitive/developmental disorders, and pain related disorders. As well, I perform assessments for those with mild brain injury, aging related disorders, ADHD (adults), and those that need an evaluation prior to an upcoming surgical procedure.
I offer neuropsychological evaluation and therapy utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy with my clients that are faced with challenges of mood disorders, neurocognitive/developmental disorders, and pain related disorders. As well, I perform assessments for those with mild brain injury, aging related disorders, ADHD (adults), and those that need an evaluation prior to an upcoming surgical procedure.
(214) 506-2454 View (214) 506-2454
Photo of Monica L Brookhart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Monica L Brookhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Welcome! My commitment is to foster a safe and supportive environment that empowers you to overcome your challenges. You might find yourself in a situation where you're unsure of what you're going through, but you have a sense that seeking help from a therapist is the right step. Please know that you're not alone-I am here to guide you through this journey, drawing upon my expertise in EMDR and a blend of research-based techniques. Together, we will work towards tailoring therapy to fit your unique needs, paving the way for healing and growth.
Welcome! My commitment is to foster a safe and supportive environment that empowers you to overcome your challenges. You might find yourself in a situation where you're unsure of what you're going through, but you have a sense that seeking help from a therapist is the right step. Please know that you're not alone-I am here to guide you through this journey, drawing upon my expertise in EMDR and a blend of research-based techniques. Together, we will work towards tailoring therapy to fit your unique needs, paving the way for healing and growth.
(469) 529-6092 View (469) 529-6092
Photo of Mental Shift Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Mental Shift Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75247  (Online Only)
At Mental Shift Therapy LLC, We believe that Shift Happens! Every individual has the capacity for growth and change. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their inner selves and overcome personal challenges. We help those struggling with overwhelming, depressive, negative or self-defeating thoughts that make life hard to enjoy. Do you feel as if you are not good enough or that your traumatic past is holding you back from achieving your best self? Well you are not alone and we are here to assist with building a stronger, healthier version of yourself!
At Mental Shift Therapy LLC, We believe that Shift Happens! Every individual has the capacity for growth and change. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their inner selves and overcome personal challenges. We help those struggling with overwhelming, depressive, negative or self-defeating thoughts that make life hard to enjoy. Do you feel as if you are not good enough or that your traumatic past is holding you back from achieving your best self? Well you are not alone and we are here to assist with building a stronger, healthier version of yourself!
(817) 835-7427 View (817) 835-7427
Photo of Beth Carpenter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Beth Carpenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LPC-S, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
There are many reasons to seek therapy, and I consider it an honor to support clients during this courageous journey. I work hard to provide a nurturing, non-judgmental space where it is safe to be vulnerable, and I help my clients feel empowered to make changes towards growth and healing. Having specialized training and fifteen years experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe in the power of relationships and the transformative experience of feeling truly accepted and seen. It can feel scary to open up, and I can support you by collaborating with you throughout the process.
There are many reasons to seek therapy, and I consider it an honor to support clients during this courageous journey. I work hard to provide a nurturing, non-judgmental space where it is safe to be vulnerable, and I help my clients feel empowered to make changes towards growth and healing. Having specialized training and fifteen years experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe in the power of relationships and the transformative experience of feeling truly accepted and seen. It can feel scary to open up, and I can support you by collaborating with you throughout the process.
(469) 423-8709 View (469) 423-8709
Photo of Mayia Riggs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Mayia Riggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75202  (Online Only)
Navigating this thing called life can be tricky, especially with the challenges we are currently facing! I am pleased to help you discover what it takes to make you feel whole. I am passionate about helping others, providing therapy services in an empathetic and non-judgmental environment. I enjoy and have experience working with all age groups. I look forward to creating a partnership with you where we address concerns regarding anxiety, depression, substance abuse, grief, trauma, anger, and self-harming behavior.
Navigating this thing called life can be tricky, especially with the challenges we are currently facing! I am pleased to help you discover what it takes to make you feel whole. I am passionate about helping others, providing therapy services in an empathetic and non-judgmental environment. I enjoy and have experience working with all age groups. I look forward to creating a partnership with you where we address concerns regarding anxiety, depression, substance abuse, grief, trauma, anger, and self-harming behavior.
(214) 717-6934 View (214) 717-6934
Photo of Madeline Buckthal Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Madeline Buckthal Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Are you feeling 'stuck' or 'overwhelmed' in your life? I'm here to help! Whether you are looking to learn tools to help you improve your self, your relationship, your family or career, my goal is to help you lead a more balanced and productive lifestyle. I approach my clients with a warm, genuine and caring nature. I work collaboratively with you to help you reach your goals. Finding the right fit for therapy is important!
Are you feeling 'stuck' or 'overwhelmed' in your life? I'm here to help! Whether you are looking to learn tools to help you improve your self, your relationship, your family or career, my goal is to help you lead a more balanced and productive lifestyle. I approach my clients with a warm, genuine and caring nature. I work collaboratively with you to help you reach your goals. Finding the right fit for therapy is important!
(806) 853-9178 View (806) 853-9178
Photo of Courtney Hicks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Courtney Hicks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
Courtney is one of just four DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinicians in north Texas. She works with adolescents and adults using Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients build a life that they believe to be truly worth living! She offers telehealth across the state of Texas. Courtney and her team at North Texas DBT Associates provide comprehensive DBT, which is comprised of highly structured weekly individual sessions, weekly group skills classes, and access to 24/7 phone coaching support. Courtney also offers DBT Prolonged Exposure Protocol for PTSD. For more information, visit our website, ntxdbt.com.
Courtney is one of just four DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinicians in north Texas. She works with adolescents and adults using Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients build a life that they believe to be truly worth living! She offers telehealth across the state of Texas. Courtney and her team at North Texas DBT Associates provide comprehensive DBT, which is comprised of highly structured weekly individual sessions, weekly group skills classes, and access to 24/7 phone coaching support. Courtney also offers DBT Prolonged Exposure Protocol for PTSD. For more information, visit our website, ntxdbt.com.
(214) 974-3036 View (214) 974-3036
Photo of Brittany Stilwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Brittany Stilwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
First things first... You are not "broken"; there is not something "wrong" with you. Oh yeah, and you're not "crazy." We all develop views of the world and coping behaviors based on our life experiences. It's what your brain does naturally to help you adapt and survive! I enjoy helping my clients become aware of these skills and utilize them effectively. Simultaneously, I enjoy aiding clients in the development of new skills and tools to assist in places where the old ones just aren't working anymore.
First things first... You are not "broken"; there is not something "wrong" with you. Oh yeah, and you're not "crazy." We all develop views of the world and coping behaviors based on our life experiences. It's what your brain does naturally to help you adapt and survive! I enjoy helping my clients become aware of these skills and utilize them effectively. Simultaneously, I enjoy aiding clients in the development of new skills and tools to assist in places where the old ones just aren't working anymore.
(903) 225-2738 View (903) 225-2738
Photo of Zenergy Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Zenergy Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75380  (Online Only)
"How can therapy help me? What can you tell me that I don’t already know?”- these are ideas that are fairly common for many people considering therapy. After all, society tells us that “emotions are yucky” and can be difficult to face- so what can therapy do for you that will actually benefit you? I believe that therapy is not about the therapist “telling you” about yourself, but is instead to explore what is holding you back from reaching your full potential.
"How can therapy help me? What can you tell me that I don’t already know?”- these are ideas that are fairly common for many people considering therapy. After all, society tells us that “emotions are yucky” and can be difficult to face- so what can therapy do for you that will actually benefit you? I believe that therapy is not about the therapist “telling you” about yourself, but is instead to explore what is holding you back from reaching your full potential.
(972) 778-8009 View (972) 778-8009
Photo of Leslie Caffey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Leslie Caffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75230
Being human isn't easy. Today's fast-paced and complex world can cause or exacerbate existing stress, anxiety, and depression and put pressure on your relationships. Maintaining perspective to overcome your problems and make solid decisions is challenging. There comes a point where everything comes to a head, and that's when people decide to enter therapy. No one should suffer alone when they can see a professional therapist. Life, while not always easy, is a gift. You can find your way with help. The earlier you seek help, the easier it is to solve your problems.
Being human isn't easy. Today's fast-paced and complex world can cause or exacerbate existing stress, anxiety, and depression and put pressure on your relationships. Maintaining perspective to overcome your problems and make solid decisions is challenging. There comes a point where everything comes to a head, and that's when people decide to enter therapy. No one should suffer alone when they can see a professional therapist. Life, while not always easy, is a gift. You can find your way with help. The earlier you seek help, the easier it is to solve your problems.
(972) 928-0441 View (972) 928-0441

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Dallas, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues
69% Coping Skills
67% Stress
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Dallas, TX see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Dallas?

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.