Therapists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Amie Eipers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Amie Eipers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CH, CPT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, offering individual, couple, & family counseling. I strive to provide a relaxed atmosphere so my clients feel comfortable sharing about themselves. I like to learn about my client’s life, not just the traumas or troubles, but all of the good, their strengths & supports. I believe the client is the expert on themselves & they are always an integral part of directing the treatment strategies & goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, offering individual, couple, & family counseling. I strive to provide a relaxed atmosphere so my clients feel comfortable sharing about themselves. I like to learn about my client’s life, not just the traumas or troubles, but all of the good, their strengths & supports. I believe the client is the expert on themselves & they are always an integral part of directing the treatment strategies & goals.
(331) 204-1830 View (331) 204-1830
Photo of Sharetha Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Sharetha Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
Sharetha Cole is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. Sharetha has a background working with children and families. She is passionate about helping individuals experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress management, and life transitions. Sharetha believes a supportive and compassionate environment is essential in the therapeutic process; such an atmosphere helps individuals identify personal strengths needed to become the person they are meant to be.
Sharetha Cole is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. Sharetha has a background working with children and families. She is passionate about helping individuals experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress management, and life transitions. Sharetha believes a supportive and compassionate environment is essential in the therapeutic process; such an atmosphere helps individuals identify personal strengths needed to become the person they are meant to be.
(630) 866-8226 View (630) 866-8226
Photo of Sangita Bogati, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Sangita Bogati
Counselor, MS, LCPC , CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
To every young adult dealing with challenges of navigating self-identity, family dynamics, manage expectations, stress of college or university life, I am here to provide you support. Please call to schedule 15 minutes consultation. It is not uncommon for second-generation individuals to face unique struggles as they balance the expectations and values of their family's culture with those of the broader society. Additionally, if addiction is a part of your life or your family's life, that can further complicate things and add an extra layer of difficulty to your journey.
To every young adult dealing with challenges of navigating self-identity, family dynamics, manage expectations, stress of college or university life, I am here to provide you support. Please call to schedule 15 minutes consultation. It is not uncommon for second-generation individuals to face unique struggles as they balance the expectations and values of their family's culture with those of the broader society. Additionally, if addiction is a part of your life or your family's life, that can further complicate things and add an extra layer of difficulty to your journey.
(331) 214-8991 View (331) 214-8991
Photo of Kristen Jopes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Kristen Jopes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Kristen Jopes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from DePaul University and her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University. Kristen's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults, and older adults as well as external experience working with children and adolescents through athletic coaching. Her clinical experience consists of working within the community environment as well as a behavioral health hospital.
Kristen Jopes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2020. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from DePaul University and her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University. Kristen's clinical experience includes working with adolescents, young adults, and older adults as well as external experience working with children and adolescents through athletic coaching. Her clinical experience consists of working within the community environment as well as a behavioral health hospital.
(331) 979-3224 View (331) 979-3224
Photo of Justin Wolfe, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Justin Wolfe
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
Justin engages clients with a warm, empathic, non-judgmental yet direct style and uses a down-to-earth approach. Justin utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ,Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) , a Client-Centered Approach and Motivational Interviewing techniques to help his clients move forward in their lives. Justin specializes in working with individuals who find themselves struggling with: depression, anxiety, addiction, family conflict, and acting out/impulsive behaviors. Justin works with clients of all ages but has a great deal of experience working with adolescents and families .
Justin engages clients with a warm, empathic, non-judgmental yet direct style and uses a down-to-earth approach. Justin utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ,Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) , a Client-Centered Approach and Motivational Interviewing techniques to help his clients move forward in their lives. Justin specializes in working with individuals who find themselves struggling with: depression, anxiety, addiction, family conflict, and acting out/impulsive behaviors. Justin works with clients of all ages but has a great deal of experience working with adolescents and families .
(630) 473-3177 View (630) 473-3177
Photo of Kimberly Just, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Kimberly Just
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
My name is Kim, and I am an owner and psychotherapist at Peace in Counseling, PLLC, a virtual practice based out of Naperville, IL. I have vast experience working in settings, such as community mental health, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing both individual, and family therapy. My experience has primarily involved treating depression, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, women’s issues, life transitions, and ADHD.
My name is Kim, and I am an owner and psychotherapist at Peace in Counseling, PLLC, a virtual practice based out of Naperville, IL. I have vast experience working in settings, such as community mental health, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing both individual, and family therapy. My experience has primarily involved treating depression, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, women’s issues, life transitions, and ADHD.
(331) 244-0310 View (331) 244-0310
Photo of Melanie Sophia Ochoa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Melanie Sophia Ochoa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Melanie Ochoa is a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Melanie is a graduate of Aurora University’s Master of Social Work Program. She utilizes a variety of evidence-based methods such as dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote positive personal growth and healthy communication. Melanie has experience treating general mental health and client concerns such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, family conflict, transition/adjustment concerns, and behavioral management. Melanie is fluent in Spanish.
Melanie Ochoa is a licensed social worker who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Melanie is a graduate of Aurora University’s Master of Social Work Program. She utilizes a variety of evidence-based methods such as dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote positive personal growth and healthy communication. Melanie has experience treating general mental health and client concerns such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, family conflict, transition/adjustment concerns, and behavioral management. Melanie is fluent in Spanish.
(630) 835-0976 View (630) 835-0976
Photo of Cynthia A. Bill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Cynthia A. Bill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, CCTPII
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Cindy Bill is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, Virginia and Delaware. Cindy received her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Cindy came to the helping profession from a long career of leadership and consultancy in the petroleum industry. She has worked in many social service settings; homeless prevention, domestic violence/sexual assault, Military/Veterans/families, hospital/medical, criminal justice, addictions treatment/recovery, emergency/crisis intervention and community mental health.
Cindy Bill is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois, Virginia and Delaware. Cindy received her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Cindy came to the helping profession from a long career of leadership and consultancy in the petroleum industry. She has worked in many social service settings; homeless prevention, domestic violence/sexual assault, Military/Veterans/families, hospital/medical, criminal justice, addictions treatment/recovery, emergency/crisis intervention and community mental health.
(630) 454-9474 View (630) 454-9474
Photo of Kendall (KJ) Banks, Pre-Licensed Professional in Naperville, IL
Kendall (KJ) Banks
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
KJ works with families and individuals and has experience working with children ages 4+, adolescents, adults, older adults, and their families. He has experience working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, emotional challenges, school refusal, anger management, gender identity, ADHD or individuals who are on the Autism Spectrum. He also has experience working with LGBTQ+ population and supports affirmative care. KJ believes there is no one size fits all approach and uses an integrative approach that focuses on what works best for each individual’s needs.
KJ works with families and individuals and has experience working with children ages 4+, adolescents, adults, older adults, and their families. He has experience working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, emotional challenges, school refusal, anger management, gender identity, ADHD or individuals who are on the Autism Spectrum. He also has experience working with LGBTQ+ population and supports affirmative care. KJ believes there is no one size fits all approach and uses an integrative approach that focuses on what works best for each individual’s needs.
(331) 253-4501 View (331) 253-4501
Photo of Tao Liu, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Tao Liu
Psychologist, MS, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
You may have suffered greatly internally and contemplated making a change. When the time comes, the risk to remain tight in a bud can be more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. If you are ready to improve your self-esteem, or seek healing from trauma, or overcome a depressive episode, or rebuild healthy relationships, I am here to guide and walk with you in your journal of growth and transformation. As a clinical and research psychologist and former assistant professor, I actively incorporate 14 years of clinical experience and research evidence working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples in my work with clients.
You may have suffered greatly internally and contemplated making a change. When the time comes, the risk to remain tight in a bud can be more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. If you are ready to improve your self-esteem, or seek healing from trauma, or overcome a depressive episode, or rebuild healthy relationships, I am here to guide and walk with you in your journal of growth and transformation. As a clinical and research psychologist and former assistant professor, I actively incorporate 14 years of clinical experience and research evidence working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples in my work with clients.
(630) 283-8111 View (630) 283-8111
Photo of Sammie Lugo, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Sammie Lugo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Sammie Lugo is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who is passionate about helping people to become the best versions of themselves. She believes that taking an empathetic and warm approach to helping clients navigate through their rough patches is essential for growth but also doesn't shy away from the use of appropriate humor in therapy either. Sammie focuses on the big, profound experiences of life (internally and externally) and the more current and pressing experiences the client may experience more day-to-day.
Sammie Lugo is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who is passionate about helping people to become the best versions of themselves. She believes that taking an empathetic and warm approach to helping clients navigate through their rough patches is essential for growth but also doesn't shy away from the use of appropriate humor in therapy either. Sammie focuses on the big, profound experiences of life (internally and externally) and the more current and pressing experiences the client may experience more day-to-day.
(630) 394-8363 View (630) 394-8363
Photo of William P. Russell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naperville, IL
William P. Russell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, BCD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
For over 35 years I have worked with individuals, couples and families to solve problems, improve relationships and make life transitions. In this time I have learned to respect the uniqueness of each individual and family, as well as the abilities and courage they bring to the challenges they face. My approach is friendly, straightforward and solution-focused, but with appreciation for the variety and complexity of factors that may be involved with the issues that folks bring to therapy. I enjoy collaborating with clients to manage stress and modify the patterns of thinking, feeling and acting that concern them.
For over 35 years I have worked with individuals, couples and families to solve problems, improve relationships and make life transitions. In this time I have learned to respect the uniqueness of each individual and family, as well as the abilities and courage they bring to the challenges they face. My approach is friendly, straightforward and solution-focused, but with appreciation for the variety and complexity of factors that may be involved with the issues that folks bring to therapy. I enjoy collaborating with clients to manage stress and modify the patterns of thinking, feeling and acting that concern them.
(847) 440-3982 x636 View (847) 440-3982 x636
Photo of Keith Levasseur, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Keith Levasseur
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I have worked as a counselor for over 20 years. I see people of all ages from 4 years old to 60 years of age. Much of my practice focuses on treating issues of trauma and anxiety. I enjoy seeing the transformation in many of my clients when I treat their trauma issues with EMDR. I also specialize in working with children and families. I treat many types of childhood issues, including behavior problems, depression, ADHD, and abuse issues.
I have worked as a counselor for over 20 years. I see people of all ages from 4 years old to 60 years of age. Much of my practice focuses on treating issues of trauma and anxiety. I enjoy seeing the transformation in many of my clients when I treat their trauma issues with EMDR. I also specialize in working with children and families. I treat many types of childhood issues, including behavior problems, depression, ADHD, and abuse issues.
(630) 765-3801 x304 View (630) 765-3801 x304
Photo of Jennifer Pellicano, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Jennifer Pellicano
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, and a founding partner of Compass Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC. My goal is to empower my clients to explore their emotional experiences, to work towards understanding their interpersonal relationships, and to identify individual strengths through a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, and a founding partner of Compass Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC. My goal is to empower my clients to explore their emotional experiences, to work towards understanding their interpersonal relationships, and to identify individual strengths through a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
(331) 204-1641 View (331) 204-1641
Photo of Cecilia Davis, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Cecilia Davis
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Cecilia Davis's approach is to develop a partnership based on trust, non-judgement and genuineness with each person. Cecilia believes that natural conversations where validation and encouragement are provided can lead to meaningful and long-lasting growth. She is very personable and enjoys providing psychoeducation, sharing useful skills and, when needed, challenging perspectives. Cecilia enjoys working with teens, adults and a multicultural population and believes it's important that each person takes charge of their treatment and an active role in their own journey.
Cecilia Davis's approach is to develop a partnership based on trust, non-judgement and genuineness with each person. Cecilia believes that natural conversations where validation and encouragement are provided can lead to meaningful and long-lasting growth. She is very personable and enjoys providing psychoeducation, sharing useful skills and, when needed, challenging perspectives. Cecilia enjoys working with teens, adults and a multicultural population and believes it's important that each person takes charge of their treatment and an active role in their own journey.
(331) 258-3478 View (331) 258-3478
Photo of Linda L Huelke, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Linda L Huelke
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
New parents face challenges including anxiety, loneliness, self-blame and sleeplessness. Moms want to feel confident to care for their babies with a sense of calm and peace. I provide a safe, nurturing environment for new moms and their partners to explore their unique journey of motherhood and the anxiety and depression that can often arise. I work closely with new parents to continue to grow outside of the office. My passion is teaching moms to manage emotions, adjustments, and changing relationship dynamics that emerge in the earliest months of parenthood and throughout the journey of motherhood.
New parents face challenges including anxiety, loneliness, self-blame and sleeplessness. Moms want to feel confident to care for their babies with a sense of calm and peace. I provide a safe, nurturing environment for new moms and their partners to explore their unique journey of motherhood and the anxiety and depression that can often arise. I work closely with new parents to continue to grow outside of the office. My passion is teaching moms to manage emotions, adjustments, and changing relationship dynamics that emerge in the earliest months of parenthood and throughout the journey of motherhood.
(331) 259-8583 View (331) 259-8583
Photo of Carolyn Richards, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Carolyn Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Carolyn Richards is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Carolyn believes that you are the expert of your own experiences. She works from a helping perspective to provide you with the support you need to make the changes you wish to have in your daily life. Carolyn works with you to understand how counseling can benefit you in the season of life that you're in. Once she has gained an understanding of the concerns, Carolyn works with you to better understand ways of coping and operating within your daily life through the use of evidence-based practices like DBT, CBT, ACT, bio feedback, and others.
Carolyn Richards is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Carolyn believes that you are the expert of your own experiences. She works from a helping perspective to provide you with the support you need to make the changes you wish to have in your daily life. Carolyn works with you to understand how counseling can benefit you in the season of life that you're in. Once she has gained an understanding of the concerns, Carolyn works with you to better understand ways of coping and operating within your daily life through the use of evidence-based practices like DBT, CBT, ACT, bio feedback, and others.
(331) 702-9313 View (331) 702-9313
Photo of Kate Culen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Kate Culen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60565  (Online Only)
My practice is focused on a safe and supportive place where you will be comfortable and can be yourself. I specialize in working with individuals, teens/young encourage open communication and be transparent. We will work hard and also have some time to laugh when needed.
My practice is focused on a safe and supportive place where you will be comfortable and can be yourself. I specialize in working with individuals, teens/young encourage open communication and be transparent. We will work hard and also have some time to laugh when needed.
(630) 517-9506 View (630) 517-9506
Photo of Lauren Sbarbaro, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Lauren Sbarbaro
Psychologist, PsyD, LADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
At New Leaf Counseling and Wellness we provide comprehensive psychological testing services. A psychological evaluation can help clarify strengths, areas of growth, challenges, and provide diagnostic clarification. The testing process can be confusing at times and we are happy to help you through the process. The staff at New Leaf Counseling and Wellness will assist with the coordination of insurance benefits, scheduling, and familiarizing you with the process of psychological testing.
At New Leaf Counseling and Wellness we provide comprehensive psychological testing services. A psychological evaluation can help clarify strengths, areas of growth, challenges, and provide diagnostic clarification. The testing process can be confusing at times and we are happy to help you through the process. The staff at New Leaf Counseling and Wellness will assist with the coordination of insurance benefits, scheduling, and familiarizing you with the process of psychological testing.
(331) 200-8986 View (331) 200-8986
Photo of Christina Maki, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naperville, IL
Christina Maki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Christina is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a near decade of experience. She is honored to work with kids, tweens, teens, parents, and families who have courageously chosen to seek help during times of struggle. She has spent time working in the foster care system, community mental health clinics, and private practice. In each of these settings, her primary aim is to help our most vulnerable population navigate some of life’s challenges and support the parent/guardian as you guide them. Christina’s style of therapy is relational, strength-based, evidence-based, and integrative.
Christina is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a near decade of experience. She is honored to work with kids, tweens, teens, parents, and families who have courageously chosen to seek help during times of struggle. She has spent time working in the foster care system, community mental health clinics, and private practice. In each of these settings, her primary aim is to help our most vulnerable population navigate some of life’s challenges and support the parent/guardian as you guide them. Christina’s style of therapy is relational, strength-based, evidence-based, and integrative.
(331) 210-0417 View (331) 210-0417

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Naperville, IL

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Naperville, IL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
65% Coping Skills
64% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% Aetna
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Naperville, IL see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Naperville?

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.