Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

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Photo of Ashley Vitek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Ashley Vitek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
Are you currently going through significant changes in life, finding yourself feeling complacent and unable to take the steps to achieve your goals? Or maybe you have past trauma that seems to keep coming up that is impacting your current relationships? Therapy is about self- discovery, personal growth and healing. I prioritize collaborating with my clients to build a trusting, nonjudgmental, laid-back relationship that allows me to provide validation, introspection, while also keeping it real and challenging you to do the deeper work that often constitutes healing.
Are you currently going through significant changes in life, finding yourself feeling complacent and unable to take the steps to achieve your goals? Or maybe you have past trauma that seems to keep coming up that is impacting your current relationships? Therapy is about self- discovery, personal growth and healing. I prioritize collaborating with my clients to build a trusting, nonjudgmental, laid-back relationship that allows me to provide validation, introspection, while also keeping it real and challenging you to do the deeper work that often constitutes healing.
(651) 412-1426 View (651) 412-1426
Photo of Nancy Lawroski, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Nancy Lawroski
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
People come to therapy for many reasons. In the first few sessions, I want to get to know you--what you are struggling with, your hopes and fears for the future, what seems to be getting in the way, what strengths and assets you bring. Together, we arrive at a plan, identifying your goals, sources of distress, and how best to work toward symptom relief and greater satisfaction with life and relationships. My approach integrates several treatment modalities, including psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based therapies, life-span developmental approaches, attachment theory, family and couples therapy.
People come to therapy for many reasons. In the first few sessions, I want to get to know you--what you are struggling with, your hopes and fears for the future, what seems to be getting in the way, what strengths and assets you bring. Together, we arrive at a plan, identifying your goals, sources of distress, and how best to work toward symptom relief and greater satisfaction with life and relationships. My approach integrates several treatment modalities, including psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based therapies, life-span developmental approaches, attachment theory, family and couples therapy.
(651) 964-0957 View (651) 964-0957
Photo of Sam L Atkins, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Sam L Atkins
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Hello and welcome! My name is Sam (they/them), and I am so happy you're here. As a queer and non-binary identified provider, I honor how painstakingly difficult it is to exist under oppressive systems, let alone thrive. It can be isolating and scary to navigate this world alone, and I do not think you should have to. Drawing on humanistic and person-centered models of care, I aim to create a non-judgmental and empathetic space where you can bravely define what being your best self means to you. As an artist, I understand creativity's healing, grounding nature and provide art supplies for client use in sessions.
Hello and welcome! My name is Sam (they/them), and I am so happy you're here. As a queer and non-binary identified provider, I honor how painstakingly difficult it is to exist under oppressive systems, let alone thrive. It can be isolating and scary to navigate this world alone, and I do not think you should have to. Drawing on humanistic and person-centered models of care, I aim to create a non-judgmental and empathetic space where you can bravely define what being your best self means to you. As an artist, I understand creativity's healing, grounding nature and provide art supplies for client use in sessions.
(612) 682-2909 x36 View (612) 682-2909 x36
Photo of Mark W Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Mark W Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I enjoy seeing a wide variety of clients as I am able to offer them some unique perspectives to improve and change their current situation. It is my hope that our work together will challenge you to grow in ways you imagined and in some you do not. I have been a pastor in the Lutheran church and that gives me some unique abilities to help you utilize your faith as a strength. Although faith is not a prerequisite to counseling, I offer faith based counseling for those who have spirituality as one of their resources. I also see the value of animals in the lives of my clients and we offer a pet friendly environment.
I enjoy seeing a wide variety of clients as I am able to offer them some unique perspectives to improve and change their current situation. It is my hope that our work together will challenge you to grow in ways you imagined and in some you do not. I have been a pastor in the Lutheran church and that gives me some unique abilities to help you utilize your faith as a strength. Although faith is not a prerequisite to counseling, I offer faith based counseling for those who have spirituality as one of their resources. I also see the value of animals in the lives of my clients and we offer a pet friendly environment.
(612) 712-6675 View (612) 712-6675
Photo of Jessica L. Metzger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Jessica L. Metzger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419
Not accepting new clients
We all can benefit from support from time to time. Perhaps you are entering a new phase in life, coping with a mental or physical illness, navigating conflict, loss or trauma. Art therapy can be that support regardless of your experience and skill level. Tap into your innate creativity for healing and change.
We all can benefit from support from time to time. Perhaps you are entering a new phase in life, coping with a mental or physical illness, navigating conflict, loss or trauma. Art therapy can be that support regardless of your experience and skill level. Tap into your innate creativity for healing and change.
(651) 412-4829 View (651) 412-4829
Photo of Angelica Belko, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Angelica Belko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55409
I currently have openings on Tuesdays/Thursdays virtually, or Wednesday evenings in-person. I am committed to the health of all adult relationships whether that be romantic or platonic, friends or family. I’m here to support folks at the crossroads of their lives such as starting or ending relationships, shifting from young to middle adulthood, exciting new endeavors, or grieving the loss of something important.
I currently have openings on Tuesdays/Thursdays virtually, or Wednesday evenings in-person. I am committed to the health of all adult relationships whether that be romantic or platonic, friends or family. I’m here to support folks at the crossroads of their lives such as starting or ending relationships, shifting from young to middle adulthood, exciting new endeavors, or grieving the loss of something important.
(612) 439-2852 View (612) 439-2852
Photo of Sara Anne Hawkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Sara Anne Hawkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419
You're not crazy! Relationships are hard and they require hard work. They can also be extremely rewarding and worth all the work. Therapy is quite similar. Do you need help to bring the spark back into your marriage? Heal your relationship after an affair? Work through painful or traumatic memories? Help coping with life cycle transitions? Develop better communication? As your therapist I will support you in achieving these goals by encouraging and respectfully challenging you in order to create the change you are seeking through therapy.
You're not crazy! Relationships are hard and they require hard work. They can also be extremely rewarding and worth all the work. Therapy is quite similar. Do you need help to bring the spark back into your marriage? Heal your relationship after an affair? Work through painful or traumatic memories? Help coping with life cycle transitions? Develop better communication? As your therapist I will support you in achieving these goals by encouraging and respectfully challenging you in order to create the change you are seeking through therapy.
(952) 314-5473 View (952) 314-5473
Photo of Julie Tilsen, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Julie Tilsen
Psychologist, MA, LP, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
I offer therapy that focuses on what matters to you and making changes that matter to you. Whether you're the parent of a struggling young person, a queer or trans person fighting to be seen & heard on your terms, or in a relationship hijacked by conflict & pain, I can help. My approach is culturally responsive & relationally engaged. This means that I understand you, the important people in your life, and your relationships in context. It also means that you are not the problem, the problem is the problem, and I work with you to meet your goals and aspirations to get your life back and be the person you want to be. Read more at my website, www.2stories.com.
I offer therapy that focuses on what matters to you and making changes that matter to you. Whether you're the parent of a struggling young person, a queer or trans person fighting to be seen & heard on your terms, or in a relationship hijacked by conflict & pain, I can help. My approach is culturally responsive & relationally engaged. This means that I understand you, the important people in your life, and your relationships in context. It also means that you are not the problem, the problem is the problem, and I work with you to meet your goals and aspirations to get your life back and be the person you want to be. Read more at my website, www.2stories.com.
(612) 260-1634 View (612) 260-1634
Photo of Christine Lindholm, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Christine Lindholm
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSE, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
I am a psychotherapist and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). I work from a person centered, trauma informed, harm reduction, sex positive based lens. My specialty is working with individuals who struggle with substance use, addiction, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harm and family/relationship concerns.
I am a psychotherapist and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). I work from a person centered, trauma informed, harm reduction, sex positive based lens. My specialty is working with individuals who struggle with substance use, addiction, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-harm and family/relationship concerns.
(651) 409-5735 View (651) 409-5735
Photo of Joe Molinari, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Joe Molinari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55401
You're here because something about sex or your relationship has been a concern for months or maybe years. You wonder "will it always be this way? Is it possible to feel better?" It's lonely and overwhelming to feel disconnected from your sexuality and your partner. It can cause a rift in your social life, trickle into your work, and your general ability to relax. I'm here to help you discover, heal, and renew erotic pleasure.
You're here because something about sex or your relationship has been a concern for months or maybe years. You wonder "will it always be this way? Is it possible to feel better?" It's lonely and overwhelming to feel disconnected from your sexuality and your partner. It can cause a rift in your social life, trickle into your work, and your general ability to relax. I'm here to help you discover, heal, and renew erotic pleasure.
(612) 354-8103 View (612) 354-8103
Photo of Krista Schaefer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Krista Schaefer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Are you considering making a change to your substance use or problem behavior? I specialize in working with clients who either don't want to pursue the typical rehab approach or who have tried it and want something different. Many clients come to me because they're looking for an alternative to typical treatment. I provide guidance to clients as they change their lives while still being able to manage responsibilities at home and work. Most of my clients are working professionals who are looking to make lasting change. I frequently work with couples & families as they navigate problems related to disconnection or problem behavior.
Are you considering making a change to your substance use or problem behavior? I specialize in working with clients who either don't want to pursue the typical rehab approach or who have tried it and want something different. Many clients come to me because they're looking for an alternative to typical treatment. I provide guidance to clients as they change their lives while still being able to manage responsibilities at home and work. Most of my clients are working professionals who are looking to make lasting change. I frequently work with couples & families as they navigate problems related to disconnection or problem behavior.
(763) 334-6287 View (763) 334-6287
Photo of Terri Flansburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Terri Flansburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55422
I have over a decade of experience as a Psychotherapist, helping clients recover from trauma, manage anxious and depressive symptoms, deconstruct their faith systems, reduce destructive behavioral patterns, sort through charged memories, and deal with their complicated in-laws. I have an eclectic approach, and I specialize in utilizing EMDR, IFS, and CBT frameworks. I truly believe everything is connected, both internally and externally. Thus, it is imperative to account for the 'whole person' in order for therapy to be effective. I also think it's important to laugh once in a while.
I have over a decade of experience as a Psychotherapist, helping clients recover from trauma, manage anxious and depressive symptoms, deconstruct their faith systems, reduce destructive behavioral patterns, sort through charged memories, and deal with their complicated in-laws. I have an eclectic approach, and I specialize in utilizing EMDR, IFS, and CBT frameworks. I truly believe everything is connected, both internally and externally. Thus, it is imperative to account for the 'whole person' in order for therapy to be effective. I also think it's important to laugh once in a while.
(612) 261-1702 View (612) 261-1702
Photo of Marcell Lenoir, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Marcell Lenoir
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55416  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. My life's mission is to work with clients to further their understanding of their life experiences and the issues that may arise on a daily basis, and how they can manage these issues when they arise. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, or groups address emotional, psychological, or behavioral challenges.
Accepting new clients. My life's mission is to work with clients to further their understanding of their life experiences and the issues that may arise on a daily basis, and how they can manage these issues when they arise. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, or groups address emotional, psychological, or behavioral challenges.
(952) 234-3217 View (952) 234-3217
Photo of Katelyn Rising, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Katelyn Rising
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPS, LADC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals who are 16 + years old and are motivated to engage in therapy. I value the therapeutic relationship. I view therapy as the two of us working together as a team to reach your goals. I use a person center, strengths based approach and value using many different modalities to fit a person's needs. I primarily work with individuals who are seeking help related to depression, anxiety, grief and loss counseling, life transition situations, chemical dependency issues, family member of someone struggling with chemical dependency, maintenance care for psychosis/psychotic spectrum disorders and panic disorders.
I work with individuals who are 16 + years old and are motivated to engage in therapy. I value the therapeutic relationship. I view therapy as the two of us working together as a team to reach your goals. I use a person center, strengths based approach and value using many different modalities to fit a person's needs. I primarily work with individuals who are seeking help related to depression, anxiety, grief and loss counseling, life transition situations, chemical dependency issues, family member of someone struggling with chemical dependency, maintenance care for psychosis/psychotic spectrum disorders and panic disorders.
(612) 712-5420 View (612) 712-5420
Photo of Jewell Arcoren, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Jewell Arcoren
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55422
I am a passionate clinician with a deep commitment to intergenerational healing and language revitalization within First Nations communities. With a Master’s in Counseling and Psychology Services, I am able to support adults and emerging adults (18-21) to explore and heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and establish and foster community connection and engagement. If you are seeking a safe and supportive space to embark on your healing journey, I invite you to join the circle. Together, we can explore the path towards resilience, empowerment, and cultural revitalization.
I am a passionate clinician with a deep commitment to intergenerational healing and language revitalization within First Nations communities. With a Master’s in Counseling and Psychology Services, I am able to support adults and emerging adults (18-21) to explore and heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and establish and foster community connection and engagement. If you are seeking a safe and supportive space to embark on your healing journey, I invite you to join the circle. Together, we can explore the path towards resilience, empowerment, and cultural revitalization.
(763) 363-7525 View (763) 363-7525
Photo of Laura J Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Laura J Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CHTP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55417  (Online Only)
With compassion and an open heart and mind, I invite you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Using a holistic approach to wellness, we will assess all areas of your life - mind, body, heart, spirit - and determine if these feel integrated and fulfilling and reflect your true nature. While exploring, honoring, and releasing patterns that no longer serve and treating unresolved trauma, you will naturally reconnect with your true self and life will begin to unfold in the most beautiful ways.
With compassion and an open heart and mind, I invite you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Using a holistic approach to wellness, we will assess all areas of your life - mind, body, heart, spirit - and determine if these feel integrated and fulfilling and reflect your true nature. While exploring, honoring, and releasing patterns that no longer serve and treating unresolved trauma, you will naturally reconnect with your true self and life will begin to unfold in the most beautiful ways.
(612) 260-1891 View (612) 260-1891
Photo of Heather Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Heather Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403
So often in life we think the key to finding happiness exists in something outside of ourselves. We change jobs, partners, friends and cities only to find ourselves exactly as we were, living with the same problems and patterns, and ultimately in the same self-imposed prisons. As children, we intuitively develop adaptive solutions to maladaptive situations that enable us to protect our hearts and minds. Unbeknownst to our consciousness, these self-deceptions no longer protect us, but in fact compromise our capacity for growth.
So often in life we think the key to finding happiness exists in something outside of ourselves. We change jobs, partners, friends and cities only to find ourselves exactly as we were, living with the same problems and patterns, and ultimately in the same self-imposed prisons. As children, we intuitively develop adaptive solutions to maladaptive situations that enable us to protect our hearts and minds. Unbeknownst to our consciousness, these self-deceptions no longer protect us, but in fact compromise our capacity for growth.
(612) 223-7680 View (612) 223-7680
Photo of Sarah Newberry Donovan, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Sarah Newberry Donovan
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
You may be feeling overwhelmed, groundless, sad, confused. You need a safe space to unpack and process at a pace that feels right for you. I will always respect your boundaries and limits while also inviting you to dig deeper to better understand yourself and others. You will be listened to and supported as we work together to achieve your goals for wellbeing and for positive connections with others. I strive to work from a place of affirming all identities, including a committment to HAES and body liberation.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, groundless, sad, confused. You need a safe space to unpack and process at a pace that feels right for you. I will always respect your boundaries and limits while also inviting you to dig deeper to better understand yourself and others. You will be listened to and supported as we work together to achieve your goals for wellbeing and for positive connections with others. I strive to work from a place of affirming all identities, including a committment to HAES and body liberation.
(612) 439-4540 View (612) 439-4540
Photo of Lauren Stevens, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Lauren Stevens
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Waitlist for new clients
I am here to support a wide variety of clients who struggle with anxious thoughts and a depressed mood. I especially enjoy working with those who struggle to manage ADHD symptoms. Additionally, I find joy in supporting those who may be questioning or ready to explore their sexuality or gender identity. As a therapist, I am here to help you achieve your individualized goals, in addition to feeling confident and capable in your own body.
I am here to support a wide variety of clients who struggle with anxious thoughts and a depressed mood. I especially enjoy working with those who struggle to manage ADHD symptoms. Additionally, I find joy in supporting those who may be questioning or ready to explore their sexuality or gender identity. As a therapist, I am here to help you achieve your individualized goals, in addition to feeling confident and capable in your own body.
View
Photo of Kevin McCarthy | Somatic Experiencing Practitioner in Minneapolis, MN
Kevin McCarthy | Somatic Experiencing Practitioner
SEP, CAR
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
I am a trauma-informed bodyworker and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner offering a body-centered approach for the healing of trauma and chronic pain. Traditional therapy approaches often have difficulty addressing the bodily effects of trauma, anxiety and depression. Habits and patterns that get "stuck" in the body can keep these types of issues from resolving, even after many years of successful therapy. As an adjunct to traditional therapy, my body-centered approach to Somatic Experiencing provides a unique opportunity to support the physical integration of mental and emotional change that help people recovering from trauma to truly FEEL better.
I am a trauma-informed bodyworker and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner offering a body-centered approach for the healing of trauma and chronic pain. Traditional therapy approaches often have difficulty addressing the bodily effects of trauma, anxiety and depression. Habits and patterns that get "stuck" in the body can keep these types of issues from resolving, even after many years of successful therapy. As an adjunct to traditional therapy, my body-centered approach to Somatic Experiencing provides a unique opportunity to support the physical integration of mental and emotional change that help people recovering from trauma to truly FEEL better.
(612) 254-1626 View (612) 254-1626

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

1,000+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Minneapolis, MN who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% UCare
68% HealthPartners of MN and WI

How Therapists in Minneapolis, MN see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
21% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Minneapolis?

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.