Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI

View neighborhoods in Kalamazoo
Photo of Laurie Scheid Rudolph, Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Laurie Scheid Rudolph
Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Everyone has experienced trauma: either "small-t trauma" such as grief/loss, verbal abuse/bullying, injuries/illnesses, or instability in the home or "large-T trauma" such as rape, assault, physical/sexual abuse, or debilitating injury/illness. As a result of trauma, some individuals experience disruptive memories and/or emotional distress from current situations. I assist clients in gaining insight on their situations as well as the development of specific skills and behaviors that will help to reduce emotional distress. I believe that every client has the ability to heal from trauma.
Everyone has experienced trauma: either "small-t trauma" such as grief/loss, verbal abuse/bullying, injuries/illnesses, or instability in the home or "large-T trauma" such as rape, assault, physical/sexual abuse, or debilitating injury/illness. As a result of trauma, some individuals experience disruptive memories and/or emotional distress from current situations. I assist clients in gaining insight on their situations as well as the development of specific skills and behaviors that will help to reduce emotional distress. I believe that every client has the ability to heal from trauma.
(269) 932-4973 View (269) 932-4973
Photo of Kalamazoo Empowerment Services, PLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Kalamazoo Empowerment Services, PLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LLMSW, CAADC, ADS, TLLP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
Our mission is to provide a safe space for individuals, families, and groups to explore and resolve life issues. We offer an array of therapeutic services to meet the needs of diverse populations. If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, anger, trauma or other issues related to mental health or substance abuses, don't hesitate to call us. We offer in person, virtual, and in- home sessions. Don't wait, we're ready to help you.
Our mission is to provide a safe space for individuals, families, and groups to explore and resolve life issues. We offer an array of therapeutic services to meet the needs of diverse populations. If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, anger, trauma or other issues related to mental health or substance abuses, don't hesitate to call us. We offer in person, virtual, and in- home sessions. Don't wait, we're ready to help you.
(269) 241-9226 View (269) 241-9226
Photo of Dallas Kroll, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Dallas Kroll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Welcome, I’m glad you are here. Deciding to make changes in your life and asking for help is a big and sometimes scary step. I am here to help you with that. We are here to explore your uniquely you story. Counseling is a journey. Like all journeys, it is unique and special. Some paths may be tougher than others. Some people may encounter some bad weather along the way. However, more often than not, the view is always worth the journey. My goal as a therapist is to walk the path with you as a guide, not as an expert. You get to determine the path; I help navigate the tough times.
Welcome, I’m glad you are here. Deciding to make changes in your life and asking for help is a big and sometimes scary step. I am here to help you with that. We are here to explore your uniquely you story. Counseling is a journey. Like all journeys, it is unique and special. Some paths may be tougher than others. Some people may encounter some bad weather along the way. However, more often than not, the view is always worth the journey. My goal as a therapist is to walk the path with you as a guide, not as an expert. You get to determine the path; I help navigate the tough times.
(269) 575-3110 View (269) 575-3110
Photo of Lindsay McClead, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Lindsay McClead
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My commitment is to support you in positive changes in an accepting environment. Through a collaborative approach, you will gain insight into maladaptive patterns that may be inhibiting you from creating the life you want to live.
My commitment is to support you in positive changes in an accepting environment. Through a collaborative approach, you will gain insight into maladaptive patterns that may be inhibiting you from creating the life you want to live.
(269) 932-3075 View (269) 932-3075
Photo of Jill P Chestang, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Jill P Chestang
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Transformation from depression, anxiety, personal problems, grief, life transitions and other issues can be challenging. It is important to have the right support and a strong, positive relationship with your counselor. I work to provide an environment that is both safe and non-judgmental. I will help you identify the things you want to be different in your life and develop skills and a plan for reaching your desired goals.
Transformation from depression, anxiety, personal problems, grief, life transitions and other issues can be challenging. It is important to have the right support and a strong, positive relationship with your counselor. I work to provide an environment that is both safe and non-judgmental. I will help you identify the things you want to be different in your life and develop skills and a plan for reaching your desired goals.
(269) 626-2547 View (269) 626-2547
Photo of Gail Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Gail Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Not accepting new clients
I work to support people through depression and anxiety, difficult relationships, trauma and loss, PTSD, sexual orientation concerns, grief, and other challenging life transitions. Together we explore ways to shape a life rich with purpose and meaning. While I believe each of us carries the wisdom to create authentic and lasting change in our own lives, often access to this intuitive knowing is blocked or damaged. My goal to help you cultivate, restore, and strengthen the connection to your own inner knowing.
I work to support people through depression and anxiety, difficult relationships, trauma and loss, PTSD, sexual orientation concerns, grief, and other challenging life transitions. Together we explore ways to shape a life rich with purpose and meaning. While I believe each of us carries the wisdom to create authentic and lasting change in our own lives, often access to this intuitive knowing is blocked or damaged. My goal to help you cultivate, restore, and strengthen the connection to your own inner knowing.
(269) 397-2782 View (269) 397-2782
Photo of Amy Vliek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Amy Vliek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
For some of us the world is a more difficult place that it is for others. It is not our fault and there is nothing wrong with us. For some of us the world is not safe, the people in our world have made it unsafe, and we have fought by ourselves for ourselves. It is not our fault, and we should be proud that we are still here, that we still love ourselves enough to fight, and to ask for help. If this describes you - I am here to help. I will believe in you, challenge you, speak truth to you, teach you skills and techniques, and help you help yourself. Together, we can discover how to make your world what you want it to be.
For some of us the world is a more difficult place that it is for others. It is not our fault and there is nothing wrong with us. For some of us the world is not safe, the people in our world have made it unsafe, and we have fought by ourselves for ourselves. It is not our fault, and we should be proud that we are still here, that we still love ourselves enough to fight, and to ask for help. If this describes you - I am here to help. I will believe in you, challenge you, speak truth to you, teach you skills and techniques, and help you help yourself. Together, we can discover how to make your world what you want it to be.
(269) 256-1609 View (269) 256-1609
Photo of Lisa C Block, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Lisa C Block
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Life is hard and at times it can feel overwhelming and difficult to find answers. Therapy should be a non-judgmental space to explore challenges and possibilities and also to work on healing hurts, setting goals, and moving from a place of merely surviving to a place of independently thriving.
Life is hard and at times it can feel overwhelming and difficult to find answers. Therapy should be a non-judgmental space to explore challenges and possibilities and also to work on healing hurts, setting goals, and moving from a place of merely surviving to a place of independently thriving.
(269) 775-4647 View (269) 775-4647
Photo of Nichole Holliday, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Nichole Holliday
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008  (Online Only)
I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change. Clients take a journey to better understanding of themselves and others. We will set personal goals, and work together toward desired change through reflection, processing and skill building. When working with children I work with the child individually and also invite parents/guardians into session to learn skills to utilize at home to support the child with change.
I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change. Clients take a journey to better understanding of themselves and others. We will set personal goals, and work together toward desired change through reflection, processing and skill building. When working with children I work with the child individually and also invite parents/guardians into session to learn skills to utilize at home to support the child with change.
(269) 210-3805 View (269) 210-3805
Photo of Holli Slater, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Holli Slater
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are experiencing mental health issues, challenges that are overwhelming, or just need someone to talk with, I am here to support and be a person standing next to you through whatever challenges you may face by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free environment. Experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflict, family conflict, addiction, trauma, and mental health disorders can be hard to handle on your own. I am here to assist in creating a better understanding of yourself and accomplish the goals you want within your life and treatment.
Whether you are experiencing mental health issues, challenges that are overwhelming, or just need someone to talk with, I am here to support and be a person standing next to you through whatever challenges you may face by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free environment. Experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflict, family conflict, addiction, trauma, and mental health disorders can be hard to handle on your own. I am here to assist in creating a better understanding of yourself and accomplish the goals you want within your life and treatment.
(269) 682-1960 View (269) 682-1960
Photo of Ashley Outman-Bohne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Ashley Outman-Bohne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I approach therapy as a process of joining with my clients in dealing with difficult situations that they face. I will listen carefully and strive to provide an emotionally safe and nonjudgmental space to explore and work through your concerns. Experiencing a genuine connection in a relaxed atmosphere is an essential part of the therapy process. Whether you find yourself stuck in old patterns or life changes, I can provide support, discovery and insight that can help you move through painful issues to a life with more joy, meaning and peace.
I approach therapy as a process of joining with my clients in dealing with difficult situations that they face. I will listen carefully and strive to provide an emotionally safe and nonjudgmental space to explore and work through your concerns. Experiencing a genuine connection in a relaxed atmosphere is an essential part of the therapy process. Whether you find yourself stuck in old patterns or life changes, I can provide support, discovery and insight that can help you move through painful issues to a life with more joy, meaning and peace.
(269) 743-4845 View (269) 743-4845
Photo of Ben Weigel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Ben Weigel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Life is full of challenges, which at times, may seem overwhelming. I applaud your courage as you take the first step towards personal growth and empowerment by reaching out for help. You are the expert of your life, and my goal is to meet you where you are at. Together, we can find which road works best for you and I will walk beside you on your journey of self-discovery. It is my belief that everyone has tremendous potential and that we all have something unique to give to ourselves, our loved ones and the world as a whole.
Life is full of challenges, which at times, may seem overwhelming. I applaud your courage as you take the first step towards personal growth and empowerment by reaching out for help. You are the expert of your life, and my goal is to meet you where you are at. Together, we can find which road works best for you and I will walk beside you on your journey of self-discovery. It is my belief that everyone has tremendous potential and that we all have something unique to give to ourselves, our loved ones and the world as a whole.
(269) 225-0237 View (269) 225-0237
Photo of Carrie Dall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Carrie Dall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
It is safe to say, life doesn’t always go according to plan. And at times seeking help and support is the most courageous step you can take. YOU are the narrator of your story, and it is my hope to guide you to be the best possible version of yourself. Over the past 11 years I have worked with clients dealing with chronic illness, situational stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem & depression through an eclectic approach using CBT, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
It is safe to say, life doesn’t always go according to plan. And at times seeking help and support is the most courageous step you can take. YOU are the narrator of your story, and it is my hope to guide you to be the best possible version of yourself. Over the past 11 years I have worked with clients dealing with chronic illness, situational stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem & depression through an eclectic approach using CBT, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
(269) 367-8645 View (269) 367-8645
Photo of Samantha Chilcote Ritenburgh, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Kalamazoo, MI
Samantha Chilcote Ritenburgh
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA MLP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009  (Online Only)
I believe in order to make changes in our lives, we must first examine the impact that past relationships, experiences, and environments have had on us. The therapeutic process allows us to examine and process how things that have happened to us can impact who we are as individuals and integrate the past into who we are in the present. The therapeutic relationship can help us to identify sources of resilience and strength that can help us to overcome past negative experiences. By connecting our past with who we are in the present, we can start the process of change.
I believe in order to make changes in our lives, we must first examine the impact that past relationships, experiences, and environments have had on us. The therapeutic process allows us to examine and process how things that have happened to us can impact who we are as individuals and integrate the past into who we are in the present. The therapeutic relationship can help us to identify sources of resilience and strength that can help us to overcome past negative experiences. By connecting our past with who we are in the present, we can start the process of change.
(269) 225-3211 View (269) 225-3211
Photo of Maggie Severe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Maggie Severe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RN, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Hello. I work with late teens, young adults and adults as they meet the challenge of difficult emotions such as: sadness, anxiety, loneliness, frustration, anger, fear, disappointment, grief. Navigating what a full life has to offer can be complicated and at times surprising; relationship problems, school issues, parenting concerns, family conflict, multicultural issues can leave us feeling uncertain and alone. Life transitions can bring their own unique challenges: marriage/partnering, pregnancy, childbirth, medical and/or mental health diagnoses, divorce, blending family, death and dying each can challenge our usual coping skills.
Hello. I work with late teens, young adults and adults as they meet the challenge of difficult emotions such as: sadness, anxiety, loneliness, frustration, anger, fear, disappointment, grief. Navigating what a full life has to offer can be complicated and at times surprising; relationship problems, school issues, parenting concerns, family conflict, multicultural issues can leave us feeling uncertain and alone. Life transitions can bring their own unique challenges: marriage/partnering, pregnancy, childbirth, medical and/or mental health diagnoses, divorce, blending family, death and dying each can challenge our usual coping skills.
(269) 525-3965 View (269) 525-3965
Photo of Justice N Spearritt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Justice N Spearritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, ADS
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Not accepting new clients
Who are we kidding? Life is crazy and we all need someone in our corner! You are a unique person, and your challenges are too. I'm here to help you make sense of the craziness. I grew up frequently moving between my parents and family, and untimely ended up in the foster care system. With substance abuse in my family system, being a child and adult child of a dysfunctional family is something with which I am very familiar. I decided to pursue my education and help others instead of perpetuating the toxic family system.
Who are we kidding? Life is crazy and we all need someone in our corner! You are a unique person, and your challenges are too. I'm here to help you make sense of the craziness. I grew up frequently moving between my parents and family, and untimely ended up in the foster care system. With substance abuse in my family system, being a child and adult child of a dysfunctional family is something with which I am very familiar. I decided to pursue my education and help others instead of perpetuating the toxic family system.
(269) 386-6479 x13 View (269) 386-6479 x13
Photo of Christine D Weiss, Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Christine D Weiss
Counselor, MA, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Our world is a busy and complicated place, full of impersonal demands and unrealistic expectations. Living our lives on full display in the digital age can make it even more difficult to find true authenticity, peace and fulfillment. What we really need is the opportunity to pause and take a look at what we truly want for ourselves, and whether our energy and gifts are being used in pursuit of our purpose and passion. Counseling offers this opportunity for self-examination, along with the chance to expand coping skills, develop personal strengths, and solidify and repair relationships.
Our world is a busy and complicated place, full of impersonal demands and unrealistic expectations. Living our lives on full display in the digital age can make it even more difficult to find true authenticity, peace and fulfillment. What we really need is the opportunity to pause and take a look at what we truly want for ourselves, and whether our energy and gifts are being used in pursuit of our purpose and passion. Counseling offers this opportunity for self-examination, along with the chance to expand coping skills, develop personal strengths, and solidify and repair relationships.
(269) 520-0042 View (269) 520-0042
Photo of Falon Shepeck, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Falon Shepeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping clients discover their goals for themselves and learn healthy new coping skills and behavioral techniques to reach those goals. I will join you in your journey of change and personal growth while providing you with support, encouragement, compassion and empathy. My goal is to help all who step into my office to build resilience and improve their mental health. There is strength in realizing we can do hard things, and encouragement in seeing ourselves do them with support!
I am passionate about helping clients discover their goals for themselves and learn healthy new coping skills and behavioral techniques to reach those goals. I will join you in your journey of change and personal growth while providing you with support, encouragement, compassion and empathy. My goal is to help all who step into my office to build resilience and improve their mental health. There is strength in realizing we can do hard things, and encouragement in seeing ourselves do them with support!
(269) 338-8182 View (269) 338-8182
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Thorpe DSW, LMSW Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Dr. Kimberly Thorpe DSW, LMSW Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007  (Online Only)
Thanks For Stopping By! Are you looking for an experienced Doctorate level clinician like me? I will create a safe space for you to step away from your everyday routines and distractions and focus on you, your family, and or your marriage. I am available to help your heart heal and assist you and or your family navigate your life journey in a healthy way. Together we can address any of the following barriers to healthy living: communication, infidelity, intimacy, financial strains, stress, anxiety, depression, blended families, and career conflicts.
Thanks For Stopping By! Are you looking for an experienced Doctorate level clinician like me? I will create a safe space for you to step away from your everyday routines and distractions and focus on you, your family, and or your marriage. I am available to help your heart heal and assist you and or your family navigate your life journey in a healthy way. Together we can address any of the following barriers to healthy living: communication, infidelity, intimacy, financial strains, stress, anxiety, depression, blended families, and career conflicts.
(269) 247-4910 View (269) 247-4910
Photo of Gretchen Lamm, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Kalamazoo, MI
Gretchen Lamm
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Hello, my name is Gretchen and I am a compassionate and caring Limited Licensed Psychologist dedicated to helping you achieve health and wholeness in your spirit, soul and body. I am proud of you for taking a first step in exploring how counseling may benefit you. If you choose to work with me and include me in your journey towards wellness, you should know that creating a safe, honest and productive environment for you to grow is my top priority. This requires great vulnerability on your part and I am honored to step into this work with you.
Hello, my name is Gretchen and I am a compassionate and caring Limited Licensed Psychologist dedicated to helping you achieve health and wholeness in your spirit, soul and body. I am proud of you for taking a first step in exploring how counseling may benefit you. If you choose to work with me and include me in your journey towards wellness, you should know that creating a safe, honest and productive environment for you to grow is my top priority. This requires great vulnerability on your part and I am honored to step into this work with you.
(269) 256-2363 View (269) 256-2363

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
76% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
75% Stress
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Blue Care Network

How Therapists in Kalamazoo, MI see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kalamazoo?

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.