Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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Photo of Dr. Wes Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Wes Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37912
My work as a counselor focuses on helping individuals use the strengths they already possess to enact positive change within their lives. I firmly believe that as people, we possess the powers within us to solve almost any problem that life throws at us. Sometimes, as the result of things we encounter in life, be it: trauma, messages learned in childhood, patterns of thought that are no longer needed, grief, or other difficult life experiences, we have trouble finding the path to the answers within us. As a counselor, I feel privileged to help people find the paths to the answers they seek.
My work as a counselor focuses on helping individuals use the strengths they already possess to enact positive change within their lives. I firmly believe that as people, we possess the powers within us to solve almost any problem that life throws at us. Sometimes, as the result of things we encounter in life, be it: trauma, messages learned in childhood, patterns of thought that are no longer needed, grief, or other difficult life experiences, we have trouble finding the path to the answers within us. As a counselor, I feel privileged to help people find the paths to the answers they seek.
(865) 344-6811 View (865) 344-6811
Photo of Austin Lowe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Austin Lowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Life is an ever changing process. Whether it is the people we surround ourselves with, the classes/job we work, or our own physical well-being, few things remain the same. Sometimes, these changes bring on new challenges we feel unprepared to deal with; this past year, the COVID-19 pandemic left several of us feeling alone and ill-equipped for what it brought. In times like these, therapy can be helpful in working through such issues.
Life is an ever changing process. Whether it is the people we surround ourselves with, the classes/job we work, or our own physical well-being, few things remain the same. Sometimes, these changes bring on new challenges we feel unprepared to deal with; this past year, the COVID-19 pandemic left several of us feeling alone and ill-equipped for what it brought. In times like these, therapy can be helpful in working through such issues.
(423) 481-9436 View (423) 481-9436
Photo of Michael R Nash, Psychologist in Knoxville, TN
Michael R Nash
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I received my PhD in clinical psychology at Ohio University. I then completed a clinical psychology internship at Yale University Medical School. I have 25+ years in teaching and supervising doctoral students in UT's APA approved clinical psychology program. During that time, I have published over 100 professional books and articles on psychology and treatment.
I received my PhD in clinical psychology at Ohio University. I then completed a clinical psychology internship at Yale University Medical School. I have 25+ years in teaching and supervising doctoral students in UT's APA approved clinical psychology program. During that time, I have published over 100 professional books and articles on psychology and treatment.
(865) 375-0722 View (865) 375-0722
Photo of Karlene Howie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Karlene Howie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
I individualize each person and family member and believe that incorporating all members of the family is an important component in the process of therapy. I integrate treatment, care, and resources which support a healthy mind, body and spirit. I focus on the strengths of the individual and family and build on those strengths. My approach is direct and practical integrative and holistic. I specialize in neurofeedback treatment. Neurofeedback is an evidence based, noninvasive, drug free method of self-regulation, used to treat many diagnosis including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, PTSD, etc.
I individualize each person and family member and believe that incorporating all members of the family is an important component in the process of therapy. I integrate treatment, care, and resources which support a healthy mind, body and spirit. I focus on the strengths of the individual and family and build on those strengths. My approach is direct and practical integrative and holistic. I specialize in neurofeedback treatment. Neurofeedback is an evidence based, noninvasive, drug free method of self-regulation, used to treat many diagnosis including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, PTSD, etc.
(865) 213-9051 View (865) 213-9051
Photo of Landon J Dalton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Landon J Dalton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. I am a licensed therapist that works with adults and young adults. My approach to therapy is holistic and is individually tailored to meet the needs of my clients. By using an insight-oriented therapeutic approach, I aim to help clients learn not just "how" to cope, but also, why these thoughts/behaviors started to occur. I work in a relaxed, welcoming setting with individuals who are motivated to take a deeper look into themselves. I believe everyone is capable of making significant changes in their life for the better!
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. I am a licensed therapist that works with adults and young adults. My approach to therapy is holistic and is individually tailored to meet the needs of my clients. By using an insight-oriented therapeutic approach, I aim to help clients learn not just "how" to cope, but also, why these thoughts/behaviors started to occur. I work in a relaxed, welcoming setting with individuals who are motivated to take a deeper look into themselves. I believe everyone is capable of making significant changes in their life for the better!
(865) 509-9970 View (865) 509-9970
Photo of Rachel Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Rachel Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! Helping individuals to heal from their pasts and grow into the best version of themselves is something I truly love. Today, we know that trauma settles into our brains and bodies in ways that time cannot fully heal (despite the old adage, “time heals everything”) . Would you like to be more present in your daily life, have a healthier relationship to yourself and others? I would love to work together to help you heal from your past, so that you can live life more fully today.
Hello! Helping individuals to heal from their pasts and grow into the best version of themselves is something I truly love. Today, we know that trauma settles into our brains and bodies in ways that time cannot fully heal (despite the old adage, “time heals everything”) . Would you like to be more present in your daily life, have a healthier relationship to yourself and others? I would love to work together to help you heal from your past, so that you can live life more fully today.
(865) 328-9538 View (865) 328-9538
Photo of Bethany Townsend, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Bethany Townsend
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37940
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently accepting any new clients. "I wish I could show you, when you are lonely or in darkness, the astonishing light of your being." This quote from Hafiz sums up how I feel about my clients and how I approach our work together. No one is perfect, but everyone has value. I work to cultivate a space where people feel valued and feel safe. I am LGBTQIA+ affirmative.
I am not currently accepting any new clients. "I wish I could show you, when you are lonely or in darkness, the astonishing light of your being." This quote from Hafiz sums up how I feel about my clients and how I approach our work together. No one is perfect, but everyone has value. I work to cultivate a space where people feel valued and feel safe. I am LGBTQIA+ affirmative.
(865) 269-2570 View (865) 269-2570
Photo of Morgan Henry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Morgan Henry
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Being a trauma-informed therapist who provides relief via EMDR therapy is my passion. My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, down to earth, and empowering. I work with individuals ages 6 and up, couples, and families - all backgrounds welcome. I have immediate openings during evenings and weekends.
Being a trauma-informed therapist who provides relief via EMDR therapy is my passion. My clients would describe me as easy to talk to, down to earth, and empowering. I work with individuals ages 6 and up, couples, and families - all backgrounds welcome. I have immediate openings during evenings and weekends.
(865) 745-6345 View (865) 745-6345
Photo of Dr. Amy L. Skinner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Amy L. Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, ACS, ACS-TN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Now offering adult (18 and over) ADHD testing and Cranial Electrical Stimulation (CES) in-office. My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. I've had success in anxiety and depression management; mental health/wellness management; issues specific to women in transition; disability adjustment; and college student transition.
Now offering adult (18 and over) ADHD testing and Cranial Electrical Stimulation (CES) in-office. My helping philosophy is that everyone has within themselves the capacity for growth and healing, but they may need a skilled guide to access and improve those inner resources. I provide a safe place to help you navigate concerns from mental health and wellness management to life challenges and transitions. I've had success in anxiety and depression management; mental health/wellness management; issues specific to women in transition; disability adjustment; and college student transition.
(865) 258-8297 View (865) 258-8297
Photo of Bojana Staley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Bojana Staley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Life is too short to be anxious or depressed all the time, or let trauma control you. I want to help you to be free of emotional pain and find purpose in your work, relationships, and other areas of life. I focus on judgment-free and compassion-based strategies, explore "the why" behind patterns and behaviors, and work to improve, shift, and change them.
Life is too short to be anxious or depressed all the time, or let trauma control you. I want to help you to be free of emotional pain and find purpose in your work, relationships, and other areas of life. I focus on judgment-free and compassion-based strategies, explore "the why" behind patterns and behaviors, and work to improve, shift, and change them.
(865) 413-5573 View (865) 413-5573
Photo of Leigh Ann Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Leigh Ann Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in working with children, youth, adults as well as families. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California, specializing in children, youth and families. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues as well as life adjustments. I have experience and training in working with trauma and ADHD. I enjoy being able to practice from a Christian platform, but also respect and honor other religions and beliefs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in working with children, youth, adults as well as families. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California, specializing in children, youth and families. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues as well as life adjustments. I have experience and training in working with trauma and ADHD. I enjoy being able to practice from a Christian platform, but also respect and honor other religions and beliefs.
(865) 234-3127 View (865) 234-3127
Photo of Dustin Harvey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Dustin Harvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Dustin has worked with individuals across the lifespan throughout a variety of treatment settings, including in-home, outpatient, and residential treatment settings. While gaining this experience he has developed a passion for helping people find their way in a world that is rapidly changing. Dustin understands that every person takes a unique path through their development and has a variety of factors that are unique to each of their experiences.
Dustin has worked with individuals across the lifespan throughout a variety of treatment settings, including in-home, outpatient, and residential treatment settings. While gaining this experience he has developed a passion for helping people find their way in a world that is rapidly changing. Dustin understands that every person takes a unique path through their development and has a variety of factors that are unique to each of their experiences.
(865) 344-6715 View (865) 344-6715
Photo of Sara Darby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Sara Darby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
As a licensed counselor, I am committed to providing quality counseling services to the East TN community and Tennessee virtually. I have been licensed in Tennessee since 2015. I have worked in mental health since 2008. I had the wonderful opportunity from 2012-2016 to work under a licensed psychologist learning the ins and outs of a holistic approach of person centered therapy. Starting in 2016 I opened my own private practice and have been serving solely in that capacity since 2016. I offer faith based services only when asked to do so. I accept people from all walks of life and believe that everyone deserves dignity and respect.
As a licensed counselor, I am committed to providing quality counseling services to the East TN community and Tennessee virtually. I have been licensed in Tennessee since 2015. I have worked in mental health since 2008. I had the wonderful opportunity from 2012-2016 to work under a licensed psychologist learning the ins and outs of a holistic approach of person centered therapy. Starting in 2016 I opened my own private practice and have been serving solely in that capacity since 2016. I offer faith based services only when asked to do so. I accept people from all walks of life and believe that everyone deserves dignity and respect.
(865) 410-8191 View (865) 410-8191
Photo of Nicole Shepherd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Nicole Shepherd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Nicole Shepherd is a licensed professional counselor who works to cultivate a warm and goal focused relationship with her clients. Nicole has been working as a therapist in a variety of residential and outpatient settings since 2012, serving those who have struggled with severe and persistent mental health needs. Nicole has a passion for working with those 13 and older who struggle with school and work stress, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief, self-esteem issues, autistic adults who have struggled to acclimate to the challenges and stressors that come with adulthood, and those who have a history of spiritual abuse.
Nicole Shepherd is a licensed professional counselor who works to cultivate a warm and goal focused relationship with her clients. Nicole has been working as a therapist in a variety of residential and outpatient settings since 2012, serving those who have struggled with severe and persistent mental health needs. Nicole has a passion for working with those 13 and older who struggle with school and work stress, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief, self-esteem issues, autistic adults who have struggled to acclimate to the challenges and stressors that come with adulthood, and those who have a history of spiritual abuse.
(865) 424-1862 View (865) 424-1862
Photo of Pamela Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Pamela Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCAC II, CAADC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934  (Online Only)
I have over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Prior to obtaining my LCSW, I worked as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Addiction Specialist in Chattanooga, TN. This experience gave me valuable insight into the lives of my clients who are striving for recovery. I realize that healing can be a difficult road, and I value the opportunity to work alongside my clients who are seeking a more fulfilling life. My background has equipped me to meet the needs of my clients with a high degree of compassion and empathy. If you're ready to take the first step, I'm here.
I have over 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Prior to obtaining my LCSW, I worked as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Addiction Specialist in Chattanooga, TN. This experience gave me valuable insight into the lives of my clients who are striving for recovery. I realize that healing can be a difficult road, and I value the opportunity to work alongside my clients who are seeking a more fulfilling life. My background has equipped me to meet the needs of my clients with a high degree of compassion and empathy. If you're ready to take the first step, I'm here.
(865) 424-2652 View (865) 424-2652
Photo of Anna Catherine Kill, Pre-Licensed Professional in Knoxville, TN
Anna Catherine Kill
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC(t), NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Hello! I’m Anna Catherine, and my ultimate goal is to support you in overcoming emotional obstacles, harmful cognitions, and painful experiences. I prioritize creating a safe space for my clients through an empathetic and adaptive therapeutic relationship, meeting you right where you are in your healing journey and honoring your unique mind, body, and spirit. I approach my clients with curiosity, celebrate their strengths, and highlight their resiliencies as they pursue their growth goals. I welcome clients of all social and cultural backgrounds.
Hello! I’m Anna Catherine, and my ultimate goal is to support you in overcoming emotional obstacles, harmful cognitions, and painful experiences. I prioritize creating a safe space for my clients through an empathetic and adaptive therapeutic relationship, meeting you right where you are in your healing journey and honoring your unique mind, body, and spirit. I approach my clients with curiosity, celebrate their strengths, and highlight their resiliencies as they pursue their growth goals. I welcome clients of all social and cultural backgrounds.
(865) 737-1902 View (865) 737-1902
Photo of Jessica Kyle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Jessica Kyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Jessica Kyle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider qualification (LPC-MHSP) with 5 years of experience. Jessica is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address challenges to live a better and more meaningful life. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, behavioral issues in children, and major life changes. Jessica completed her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Milligan University. Her personal mental health experiences coupled with her education and professional experience enable her to give clients the support they seek.
Jessica Kyle is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider qualification (LPC-MHSP) with 5 years of experience. Jessica is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address challenges to live a better and more meaningful life. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, behavioral issues in children, and major life changes. Jessica completed her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Milligan University. Her personal mental health experiences coupled with her education and professional experience enable her to give clients the support they seek.
(865) 518-4165 View (865) 518-4165
Photo of Nina DiTommaso, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Nina DiTommaso
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Dr. Nina DiTommaso is a firm believer in the total health of the individual, including mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual. These four domains represent the different domains included in the wellness model of counseling. Nina's goal is to help her clients become the best possible version of themselves they can be. Nina states, 'Regardless of their past experiences and trauma, I help my clients learn how to process through all the hurt and pain, challenge and reframe their negative cognitions, and regain control over their emotions and behavior, in order to achieve life goals, and ultimately become successful in life.'
Dr. Nina DiTommaso is a firm believer in the total health of the individual, including mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual. These four domains represent the different domains included in the wellness model of counseling. Nina's goal is to help her clients become the best possible version of themselves they can be. Nina states, 'Regardless of their past experiences and trauma, I help my clients learn how to process through all the hurt and pain, challenge and reframe their negative cognitions, and regain control over their emotions and behavior, in order to achieve life goals, and ultimately become successful in life.'
(865) 269-6127 View (865) 269-6127
Photo of Jayne Kraft, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Knoxville, TN
Jayne Kraft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Therapist with many years of experience. Bachelor's in Sociology with minor in Psychology and English. Masters degree from the University of TN in Social work and licensed by the State of TN. Specializing in Trauma with Cognitive Processing Therapy. Focused on Evidenced Based Modalities. Additional post graduate certifications in CPT, CBT-D, Pairs for Couples and Life Goals Modular Therapy. Works with clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life changes and care taker stress. Enjoy hearing people's stories and facilitating permanent changes.
Therapist with many years of experience. Bachelor's in Sociology with minor in Psychology and English. Masters degree from the University of TN in Social work and licensed by the State of TN. Specializing in Trauma with Cognitive Processing Therapy. Focused on Evidenced Based Modalities. Additional post graduate certifications in CPT, CBT-D, Pairs for Couples and Life Goals Modular Therapy. Works with clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life changes and care taker stress. Enjoy hearing people's stories and facilitating permanent changes.
(865) 412-8792 View (865) 412-8792
Photo of Nazli Koyl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Knoxville, TN
Nazli Koyl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Everyone has a story. I am a person-centered licensed professional counselor who believes in collaborative work with the client. I provide individual and couples therapy. I primarily use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to help my clients reach their personal goals. I also utilize existential counseling and multicultural counseling. In addition to seeing clients in-person in Knoxville, I am also available online to all adult residents of TN.
Everyone has a story. I am a person-centered licensed professional counselor who believes in collaborative work with the client. I provide individual and couples therapy. I primarily use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as emotionally focused therapy (EFT) to help my clients reach their personal goals. I also utilize existential counseling and multicultural counseling. In addition to seeing clients in-person in Knoxville, I am also available online to all adult residents of TN.
(865) 951-7248 View (865) 951-7248

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Knoxville, TN

600+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
65% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
68% Aetna
68% Optum

How Therapists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Knoxville?

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.