Therapists in Monroe, LA

Photo of Kristen Amber Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Kristen Amber Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, BCN, BCB
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201
My focus is helping clients connect the physical and emotional components of healing. I am trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction which is an evidence-based practice that teaches clients to cope with pain, anxiety, sleep, stress, addiction, and depression. I have worked with individuals and families for over 9 years and have seen the physical toll that emotions can take on a person’s life. My hope is to guide my patients back to a healthier lifestyle through a combination of approaches. I believe that every individual is unique and will design each treatment plan according to the client’s goals.
My focus is helping clients connect the physical and emotional components of healing. I am trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction which is an evidence-based practice that teaches clients to cope with pain, anxiety, sleep, stress, addiction, and depression. I have worked with individuals and families for over 9 years and have seen the physical toll that emotions can take on a person’s life. My hope is to guide my patients back to a healthier lifestyle through a combination of approaches. I believe that every individual is unique and will design each treatment plan according to the client’s goals.
(318) 232-4320 View (318) 232-4320
Photo of Brenda S Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe, LA
Brenda S Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW , BACS, C-SSWS, CTRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients in 2024. Are you struggling with grief, stress, anxiety, or depression. You are not alone, and there is always support. BWilling Mental Health Counseling will help you navigate through those difficult roadblocks and put you back on the path of a meaningful and satisfying life.
Accepting New Clients in 2024. Are you struggling with grief, stress, anxiety, or depression. You are not alone, and there is always support. BWilling Mental Health Counseling will help you navigate through those difficult roadblocks and put you back on the path of a meaningful and satisfying life.
(318) 414-5843 View (318) 414-5843
Photo of Keisha Bell-Celestand, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Keisha Bell-Celestand
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201
At Celestand Counseling, our goal is to provide an environment that allows clients to explore, grow, and heal. I collaborate with the client(s) to foster insight and to help individuals reach their fullest potential. I am committed to providing personalized counseling sessions that are tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. I offer a variety of services, including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. I believe in the power of growth and I am dedicated to helping my clients find the insight and courage to make lasting changes in their lives.
At Celestand Counseling, our goal is to provide an environment that allows clients to explore, grow, and heal. I collaborate with the client(s) to foster insight and to help individuals reach their fullest potential. I am committed to providing personalized counseling sessions that are tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. I offer a variety of services, including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. I believe in the power of growth and I am dedicated to helping my clients find the insight and courage to make lasting changes in their lives.
(318) 668-7780 View (318) 668-7780
Photo of Carolyn Ann Bruce, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Carolyn Ann Bruce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71209
A compass is a tool used for guidance and direction. It is vital in helping someone find their way when they are lost or trying to get to their destination. Much like a compass, counseling can be an important tool for "direction" through a variety of difficult situations. As a therapist, my goal is to assist you in healthy ways to change behaviors that may be contributing to your problems. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re are ready to move in a new direction in your life. I look forward working with you to achieve your goals.
A compass is a tool used for guidance and direction. It is vital in helping someone find their way when they are lost or trying to get to their destination. Much like a compass, counseling can be an important tool for "direction" through a variety of difficult situations. As a therapist, my goal is to assist you in healthy ways to change behaviors that may be contributing to your problems. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re are ready to move in a new direction in your life. I look forward working with you to achieve your goals.
(318) 225-7229 View (318) 225-7229
Photo of Nicole Gee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Nicole Gee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71203
Let the HEALING begin! Are you feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, alone; have low self-esteem, anger issues, or stressed from life challenges? If so, I am currently accepting clients that are ready to take responsibility for their part in the therapeutic process, for we are a team. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I’m certified to practice Telehealth Services. With over ten years of experience, specializing in working with individuals, family, groups, adults, children, and adolescents who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, addiction, and more.
Let the HEALING begin! Are you feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, alone; have low self-esteem, anger issues, or stressed from life challenges? If so, I am currently accepting clients that are ready to take responsibility for their part in the therapeutic process, for we are a team. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I’m certified to practice Telehealth Services. With over ten years of experience, specializing in working with individuals, family, groups, adults, children, and adolescents who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, adjustment disorders, addiction, and more.
(318) 232-4612 View (318) 232-4612
Photo of Connie Aye @ Cayco Effex Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Connie Aye @ Cayco Effex Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, Coach, PLPC, SUPERVI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71209  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients who constantly feel unhappy, anxious, or sad for no reason. Do you blame yourself for not feeling connected in relationships, friendships, or within your family? Do you get overwhelmed when trying to figure out WHY you do the things you do? How would you describe your relationship with your parents or primary caregivers? If you answered YES or felt tense and stressed when answering yes to either of these questions, you're probably frustrated because you want to change but are unsure how. Book a FREE 20-minute consultation with me to explore the possibilities of making those scary changes.
Accepting New Clients who constantly feel unhappy, anxious, or sad for no reason. Do you blame yourself for not feeling connected in relationships, friendships, or within your family? Do you get overwhelmed when trying to figure out WHY you do the things you do? How would you describe your relationship with your parents or primary caregivers? If you answered YES or felt tense and stressed when answering yes to either of these questions, you're probably frustrated because you want to change but are unsure how. Book a FREE 20-minute consultation with me to explore the possibilities of making those scary changes.
(318) 353-8063 View (318) 353-8063
Photo of Valorie Cadoo MA MFT PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe, LA
Valorie Cadoo MA MFT PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71211  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients who are committed to improving their lives. Sometimes family issues get in the way, both from the past and currently. Being stuck in traumatic memories or living in difficult circumstances makes life hard. I enjoy seeing families together to help them improve communication and to build closer relationships. Couples who invest therapy time into their relationship, report increased feelings of closeness and happiness in their lives. I am an AAMFT Approved Supervisor for MFT Interns and Associates. I enjoy helping MFT Trainees to improve their therapy skills to help others.
I enjoy working with clients who are committed to improving their lives. Sometimes family issues get in the way, both from the past and currently. Being stuck in traumatic memories or living in difficult circumstances makes life hard. I enjoy seeing families together to help them improve communication and to build closer relationships. Couples who invest therapy time into their relationship, report increased feelings of closeness and happiness in their lives. I am an AAMFT Approved Supervisor for MFT Interns and Associates. I enjoy helping MFT Trainees to improve their therapy skills to help others.
(325) 455-2404 View (325) 455-2404
Photo of Shavon Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe, LA
Shavon Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201  (Online Only)
Shavon Hall is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Louisiana, who has 7 years of experience providing services to adolescents, children and families, and adults seeking help with: managing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship conflict, chronic illness, and end of life issues. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Northwestern State University of Louisiana and received her Master of Social Work degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.
Shavon Hall is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Louisiana, who has 7 years of experience providing services to adolescents, children and families, and adults seeking help with: managing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship conflict, chronic illness, and end of life issues. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Northwestern State University of Louisiana and received her Master of Social Work degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.
(339) 218-3090 View (339) 218-3090
Photo of Ruoxi Chen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe, LA
Ruoxi Chen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 14 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, and families, and I teach the practice and research of marriage and family therapy at a local university as an associate professor. I firmly believe that you are doing the best you can and your struggles do not define who you are, and my focus is on helping you pinpoint what is keeping you from having satisfying relationships and achieving your full potential. In close consultation with you, I aim to help you devise strategies to improve your life quality and satisfaction.
I have over 14 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, and families, and I teach the practice and research of marriage and family therapy at a local university as an associate professor. I firmly believe that you are doing the best you can and your struggles do not define who you are, and my focus is on helping you pinpoint what is keeping you from having satisfying relationships and achieving your full potential. In close consultation with you, I aim to help you devise strategies to improve your life quality and satisfaction.
(318) 582-2995 View (318) 582-2995
Photo of Lesley Lowman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Lesley Lowman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. It could be losing a loved one, a job or some other major life change. Maybe there’s conflict within your family or other close relationships. Sometimes you just feel sad, lonely, or confused about what to do next. And for others, there is something devastating from the past that feels impossible to move beyond. This is when counseling can help. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone and that help can be found, you just have to be willing to take that first scary step in asking for it.
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. It could be losing a loved one, a job or some other major life change. Maybe there’s conflict within your family or other close relationships. Sometimes you just feel sad, lonely, or confused about what to do next. And for others, there is something devastating from the past that feels impossible to move beyond. This is when counseling can help. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone and that help can be found, you just have to be willing to take that first scary step in asking for it.
(318) 232-4576 View (318) 232-4576
Photo of Brittney A Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Brittney A Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MS
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201
Waitlist for new clients
When humans experience trauma, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have experienced trauma. I help my clients, who include children, adults and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves.
When humans experience trauma, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have experienced trauma. I help my clients, who include children, adults and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves.
(318) 727-2433 View (318) 727-2433
Photo of Emily Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Emily Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
Life can be tough. There are times when we find ourselves feeling lost, overwhelmed, or unheard. We experience a range of emotions and face situations that can be difficult to manage alone. Counseling is a tool to gain clarity and direction when things seem too foggy to navigate on our own. As a counselor, it is my goal to provide my clients with a counseling relationship built on trust, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I strive be a partner in helping clients to discover and build upon the strengths and potential they already have within themselves.
Life can be tough. There are times when we find ourselves feeling lost, overwhelmed, or unheard. We experience a range of emotions and face situations that can be difficult to manage alone. Counseling is a tool to gain clarity and direction when things seem too foggy to navigate on our own. As a counselor, it is my goal to provide my clients with a counseling relationship built on trust, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I strive be a partner in helping clients to discover and build upon the strengths and potential they already have within themselves.
(318) 287-8580 View (318) 287-8580
Photo of Chanell Finley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Chanell Finley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! Life can be down right hard. It becomes exhausting to manage how you feel and how you sometimes respond. Crying easily, worrying, and feeling alone, angry, overwhelmed, and sad are all common signs of depression and anxiety. I want you to know you are not alone. I am here to support you and help you through such a challenging time. It is my desire to assist you in learning how to respond appropriately to triggers for better emotional control and to address unresolved trauma that has left you feeling low, empty, and ashamed. I will incorporate biblical/Christian principles, if requested.
Now accepting new clients! Life can be down right hard. It becomes exhausting to manage how you feel and how you sometimes respond. Crying easily, worrying, and feeling alone, angry, overwhelmed, and sad are all common signs of depression and anxiety. I want you to know you are not alone. I am here to support you and help you through such a challenging time. It is my desire to assist you in learning how to respond appropriately to triggers for better emotional control and to address unresolved trauma that has left you feeling low, empty, and ashamed. I will incorporate biblical/Christian principles, if requested.
(318) 616-9068 View (318) 616-9068
Photo of Dr. Sabryna Herring-Antwine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Dr. Sabryna Herring-Antwine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71203
Utilizing a collaborative approach, I’m passionate about helping Individuals develop and embrace a strong sense of autonomy. I firmly believe that only you can give yourself permission to live the life you desire. I work alongside you to restructure negative thoughts and behaviors in effort to increase confidence, self-awareness, and control over one's own life. Throughout the therapeutic process, I maintain that the client is the expert of themselves. I promote open dialogue and demonstrate unconditional positive regards towards all. ​
Utilizing a collaborative approach, I’m passionate about helping Individuals develop and embrace a strong sense of autonomy. I firmly believe that only you can give yourself permission to live the life you desire. I work alongside you to restructure negative thoughts and behaviors in effort to increase confidence, self-awareness, and control over one's own life. Throughout the therapeutic process, I maintain that the client is the expert of themselves. I promote open dialogue and demonstrate unconditional positive regards towards all. ​
(318) 374-1532 View (318) 374-1532
Photo of Amber Ledford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Amber Ledford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201
I work with adults who have experienced challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, family separation, and stress.
I work with adults who have experienced challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, family separation, and stress.
(318) 559-8247 View (318) 559-8247
Photo of Bryana C Buie, Pre-Licensed Professional in Monroe, LA
Bryana C Buie
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, PLMFT
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71203
Bryana have experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups - ages 9 and up. I work with clients who have a variety of struggles including: depression, grief, trauma, martial problems, and many more. I have experience working with a diverse group of people. So often the stigma surrounding mental health issues and therapy prevents men and women from taking the step of seeing a therapist. I want to be a catalyst for helping people become more aware of mental health and seek help when needed.
Bryana have experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups - ages 9 and up. I work with clients who have a variety of struggles including: depression, grief, trauma, martial problems, and many more. I have experience working with a diverse group of people. So often the stigma surrounding mental health issues and therapy prevents men and women from taking the step of seeing a therapist. I want to be a catalyst for helping people become more aware of mental health and seek help when needed.
(318) 232-4428 View (318) 232-4428
Photo of Tamara Thompson Counseling and Consultation, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monroe, LA
Tamara Thompson Counseling and Consultation, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71203
I have a strong belief in creating an non-judgmental environment where clients will feel comfortable with open expression of their thoughts and feelings. I enjoy working with clients to identify risk factors, negative thinking, paranoia, moments of insecurity, episodes of depression and moments of overwhelming anxiety and stress. As a therapist, I understand the importance of examining and exploring underlying causes of symptoms and establishing healthy coping and calming skills. Thank you, for choosing me to walk with you on this journey towards self-discovery.
I have a strong belief in creating an non-judgmental environment where clients will feel comfortable with open expression of their thoughts and feelings. I enjoy working with clients to identify risk factors, negative thinking, paranoia, moments of insecurity, episodes of depression and moments of overwhelming anxiety and stress. As a therapist, I understand the importance of examining and exploring underlying causes of symptoms and establishing healthy coping and calming skills. Thank you, for choosing me to walk with you on this journey towards self-discovery.
(318) 257-6834 View (318) 257-6834
Photo of Cynthia Montcalm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Monroe, LA
Cynthia Montcalm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
Through many years of working with clients and patients in both inpatient, outpatient, and community settings, I have learned that my passion is helping clients who are struggling to resolve problems that arise from unresolved family of origin issues and life transitions. I believe in a holistic approach to improve depressed mood, calm anxious thoughts, and learn coping skills. Grief work has been something that presents itself over and over and I enjoy helping clients move from the point where their loss feels overwhelming to a point where they can accept the loss and learn to enjoy life again.
Through many years of working with clients and patients in both inpatient, outpatient, and community settings, I have learned that my passion is helping clients who are struggling to resolve problems that arise from unresolved family of origin issues and life transitions. I believe in a holistic approach to improve depressed mood, calm anxious thoughts, and learn coping skills. Grief work has been something that presents itself over and over and I enjoy helping clients move from the point where their loss feels overwhelming to a point where they can accept the loss and learn to enjoy life again.
(318) 531-8219 View (318) 531-8219
Photo of John Stephen Brooks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monroe, LA
John Stephen Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71201
I am trained as a Brief Therapist and use a structural-strategic approach to therapy where both therapist and client collaboratively engage to address issues and solve problems with unique My work includes children & families, couples, individuals, and professionals experiencing licensing issues or other career-related concerns. My worldview is that we are all part of larger systems which consist of our families, friends, co-workers, and the people we surround ourselves with every day. When we work to improve those relationships, and realign the structure of our interactions with the people around us, we then see positive results.
I am trained as a Brief Therapist and use a structural-strategic approach to therapy where both therapist and client collaboratively engage to address issues and solve problems with unique My work includes children & families, couples, individuals, and professionals experiencing licensing issues or other career-related concerns. My worldview is that we are all part of larger systems which consist of our families, friends, co-workers, and the people we surround ourselves with every day. When we work to improve those relationships, and realign the structure of our interactions with the people around us, we then see positive results.
(318) 506-2252 View (318) 506-2252
Photo of Gregory Greer, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Monroe, LA
Gregory Greer
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LAC, CGP
Verified Verified
Monroe, LA 71203
I work with those suffering from alcoholism and addiction, codependent relationships, and those seeking spirituality. The goal is to be free from that addictive relationship and form new healthy relationships. Professional literature demonstrates most successful results in treating addiction/alcoholism comes from working in groups with other alcoholics/addicts. However, many struggle with anxiety in group settings and need individual attention before feeling comfortable in a group. I can help. I also have training with Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) and seeking a PhD in Quantum Metaphysics.
I work with those suffering from alcoholism and addiction, codependent relationships, and those seeking spirituality. The goal is to be free from that addictive relationship and form new healthy relationships. Professional literature demonstrates most successful results in treating addiction/alcoholism comes from working in groups with other alcoholics/addicts. However, many struggle with anxiety in group settings and need individual attention before feeling comfortable in a group. I can help. I also have training with Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) and seeking a PhD in Quantum Metaphysics.
(318) 366-2553 View (318) 366-2553

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Monroe, LA

70+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Monroe, LA who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
83% Depression
78% Coping Skills
76% Self Esteem
74% Relationship Issues
72% Stress
72% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Aetna
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Monroe, LA see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Monroe?

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.