Therapists in Bellevue, WA

View neighborhoods in Bellevue
Photo of Amanda Bell, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Amanda Bell
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
When we need help, asking can be difficult. It is a courageous step. I believe that we all hold natural capacities for resilience, growth, and healing. As a therapist, I offer a safe, supportive, and compassionate space for self-exploration and repair. My job is to support you along your journey, and I work hard to maintain a program of thoughtful practice because I’m devoted and passionate about this work.
When we need help, asking can be difficult. It is a courageous step. I believe that we all hold natural capacities for resilience, growth, and healing. As a therapist, I offer a safe, supportive, and compassionate space for self-exploration and repair. My job is to support you along your journey, and I work hard to maintain a program of thoughtful practice because I’m devoted and passionate about this work.
(425) 585-4387 View (425) 585-4387
Photo of Michelle Kusterman, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Michelle Kusterman
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I believe in the importance of celebrating diversity and empowering individuals through a personalized therapeutic process. Having commitment and compassion at the forefront of services, to achieve best results and outcomes. I have provided services in the mental health field for eight years, serving children, adults, and families through individual, family, and group counseling settings. I am dedicated to helping identify the strengths and unique gifts of every individual, to help you reach your personal goals in therapy and beyond.
I believe in the importance of celebrating diversity and empowering individuals through a personalized therapeutic process. Having commitment and compassion at the forefront of services, to achieve best results and outcomes. I have provided services in the mental health field for eight years, serving children, adults, and families through individual, family, and group counseling settings. I am dedicated to helping identify the strengths and unique gifts of every individual, to help you reach your personal goals in therapy and beyond.
(360) 964-3498 x1 View (360) 964-3498 x1
Photo of Lenke Lagrandeur, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Lenke Lagrandeur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Since you are here, you may be wondering if therapy is the answer. You may notice certain patterns that keep showing up in your life that you desperately want to change. Maybe you find that anxiety, overthinking, isolation, and perfectionism get in the way of you living a content and connected life. I strive to create an empowering and compassionate environment where we work together to identify areas of growth and change or of acceptance. You don't have to keep feeling stuck, there are tools out there that can help. Offering DBT, RO-DBT, and ERP treatments based on evaluation.
Since you are here, you may be wondering if therapy is the answer. You may notice certain patterns that keep showing up in your life that you desperately want to change. Maybe you find that anxiety, overthinking, isolation, and perfectionism get in the way of you living a content and connected life. I strive to create an empowering and compassionate environment where we work together to identify areas of growth and change or of acceptance. You don't have to keep feeling stuck, there are tools out there that can help. Offering DBT, RO-DBT, and ERP treatments based on evaluation.
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Photo of Tina Ensminger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Tina Ensminger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Are you feeling "stuck" as a result of painful life circumstances or relationships? Do you have sexual intimacy concerns and unsure where to turn for help? Are you struggling to cope with issues related to parenting, illness, aging or other life transitions? Do you desire something different in your life, but are not quite sure where to start? I work with individual adults and couples who want to feel better and create deeper, more satisfying relationships.
Are you feeling "stuck" as a result of painful life circumstances or relationships? Do you have sexual intimacy concerns and unsure where to turn for help? Are you struggling to cope with issues related to parenting, illness, aging or other life transitions? Do you desire something different in your life, but are not quite sure where to start? I work with individual adults and couples who want to feel better and create deeper, more satisfying relationships.
(206) 557-6927 View (206) 557-6927
Photo of Rebecca Calhoun-Shepard, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Rebecca Calhoun-Shepard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
I provide therapy with adolescent and adult individuals and partners, including couples and polycules. My clinical areas of interest include ADHD and the impact of neurodiversity on relationships, polyamory and non-monogamy, jealousy, sexual identity, singlehood, communication skills, women’s issues, and interpersonal trauma. I’m considered polyam-friendly, Queer-friendly, kink-aware, and trauma informed. A collaborative therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my practice. It’s of utmost importance that my clients feel heard, supported and respected, while simultaneously challenged.
I provide therapy with adolescent and adult individuals and partners, including couples and polycules. My clinical areas of interest include ADHD and the impact of neurodiversity on relationships, polyamory and non-monogamy, jealousy, sexual identity, singlehood, communication skills, women’s issues, and interpersonal trauma. I’m considered polyam-friendly, Queer-friendly, kink-aware, and trauma informed. A collaborative therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my practice. It’s of utmost importance that my clients feel heard, supported and respected, while simultaneously challenged.
(425) 385-0704 View (425) 385-0704
Photo of Max Shannon, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Max Shannon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
PSYPACT. I am a licensed Psychologist and anxiety specialist serving under the PSYPACT license, and can practice in over 35 states in the USA . I specialize in treating Paruresus (shy bladder syndrome), panic disorder, sleep disorders and agoraphobia. I have extensive training in multiple evidence-based therapies, and experience with a wide array of issues adults face. I work in a collaborative way, and I am engaged and active in session. In our work, you will experience new approaches to your emotions, new ways to connect with yourself and others, and an understanding of how to continue your growth after therapy.
PSYPACT. I am a licensed Psychologist and anxiety specialist serving under the PSYPACT license, and can practice in over 35 states in the USA . I specialize in treating Paruresus (shy bladder syndrome), panic disorder, sleep disorders and agoraphobia. I have extensive training in multiple evidence-based therapies, and experience with a wide array of issues adults face. I work in a collaborative way, and I am engaged and active in session. In our work, you will experience new approaches to your emotions, new ways to connect with yourself and others, and an understanding of how to continue your growth after therapy.
(206) 309-9049 View (206) 309-9049
Photo of Michelle Valdez, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Michelle Valdez
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CECP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
A meaningful life and sense of freedom await on the other side of healing. Congratulations on taking the first step! I specialize in individual therapy for adults, adolescents (ages 12+), and children. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, bereavement, and struggles with adjustment. I work with clients who want a better understanding of their feelings as well as invested in their own healing and self-development.
A meaningful life and sense of freedom await on the other side of healing. Congratulations on taking the first step! I specialize in individual therapy for adults, adolescents (ages 12+), and children. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, bereavement, and struggles with adjustment. I work with clients who want a better understanding of their feelings as well as invested in their own healing and self-development.
(425) 307-5800 View (425) 307-5800
Photo of Niloufar Amirmoezi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Niloufar Amirmoezi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
My interest for this job stems from my spiritual artistic insight and the love of helping human beings. I hope to give my clients a comfort environment by being culturally respectful and providing a non-judgmental atmosphere in which you can examine and clarify the issues that concern you in your life.
My interest for this job stems from my spiritual artistic insight and the love of helping human beings. I hope to give my clients a comfort environment by being culturally respectful and providing a non-judgmental atmosphere in which you can examine and clarify the issues that concern you in your life.
(425) 403-7163 View (425) 403-7163
Photo of Rebekah Lunden, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Rebekah Lunden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
Current openings! Whether you are facing a life transition, seeking clarity in a relationship, or struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to face it alone. Having a safe space where you feel seen and heard is crucial to your growth, healing, and overall wellbeing. I will work with you to create and hold a space of felt safety, where your experiences and emotions are validated. I will offer insight, listen without judgment, and invite you to self-reflect for clarity about your past and present experiences. Therapy is a process of change and change can be uncomfortable and scary at times. I am here to support you.
Current openings! Whether you are facing a life transition, seeking clarity in a relationship, or struggling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to face it alone. Having a safe space where you feel seen and heard is crucial to your growth, healing, and overall wellbeing. I will work with you to create and hold a space of felt safety, where your experiences and emotions are validated. I will offer insight, listen without judgment, and invite you to self-reflect for clarity about your past and present experiences. Therapy is a process of change and change can be uncomfortable and scary at times. I am here to support you.
(425) 386-7568 View (425) 386-7568
Photo of Charity Laughlin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Charity Laughlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
It is common to feel loneliness and heartbreak when experiencing relationship difficulties (sexual concerns, poor communication, conflict without repair, lack of intimacy, codependence, wanting different things, working through a betrayal such as infidelity). I work with individuals, couples, and intimate partnerships who are experiencing relationship and sexual difficulties or mental health concerns, supporting each partner’s growth in self- and other-intimacy by helping each of you identify and skillfully communicate what you think, feel, and prefer and listen with curiosity and compassion as your partner does the same.
It is common to feel loneliness and heartbreak when experiencing relationship difficulties (sexual concerns, poor communication, conflict without repair, lack of intimacy, codependence, wanting different things, working through a betrayal such as infidelity). I work with individuals, couples, and intimate partnerships who are experiencing relationship and sexual difficulties or mental health concerns, supporting each partner’s growth in self- and other-intimacy by helping each of you identify and skillfully communicate what you think, feel, and prefer and listen with curiosity and compassion as your partner does the same.
(425) 357-7690 View (425) 357-7690
Photo of Dani Bohbot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Dani Bohbot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Do you have anxious thoughts that keep you on a loop that spirals and feels exhausting? Maybe you struggle with indecision and confidence in your life. Anxiety shows up in many ways and without realizing it we often find ourselves coping in ways that distance us from who we are. Maybe that looks like avoiding social situations, obsessive thinking and actions, disorder eating, or perfectionism. Or maybe you find yourself exhausted first thing in the morning and struggle to get out of bed. Depression can feel like an invisible rain cloud following only you around, leading to feeling alone, hopeless, and angry at life.
Do you have anxious thoughts that keep you on a loop that spirals and feels exhausting? Maybe you struggle with indecision and confidence in your life. Anxiety shows up in many ways and without realizing it we often find ourselves coping in ways that distance us from who we are. Maybe that looks like avoiding social situations, obsessive thinking and actions, disorder eating, or perfectionism. Or maybe you find yourself exhausted first thing in the morning and struggle to get out of bed. Depression can feel like an invisible rain cloud following only you around, leading to feeling alone, hopeless, and angry at life.
(425) 403-2742 x001 View (425) 403-2742 x001
Photo of Kat Bonnington, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Kat Bonnington
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Maybe you have seen providers for eating in the past, maybe this is the first time you’re talking to someone about it. Maybe you tried to get things under control on your own - the diets, the meal plans, the apps, the self-help books. No two bodies are alike, and the same goes for our relationships to food and body. It’s helpful to have someone treat you for your unique presentation of concerns - not a cookie cutter treatment - so you can find the kind of peace that makes sense for your life.
Maybe you have seen providers for eating in the past, maybe this is the first time you’re talking to someone about it. Maybe you tried to get things under control on your own - the diets, the meal plans, the apps, the self-help books. No two bodies are alike, and the same goes for our relationships to food and body. It’s helpful to have someone treat you for your unique presentation of concerns - not a cookie cutter treatment - so you can find the kind of peace that makes sense for your life.
(425) 406-4576 View (425) 406-4576
Photo of Chris A. Burkland, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Chris A. Burkland
Counselor, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
** NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS ** Hi and welcome - I'm glad you're taking this step in finding a therapist - I hope I can help. My goal is to work with you to identify your main areas of concern/stress and develop a realistic strategy to reach your goals. I am a big fan of “doing what works” which, of course, means a different plan for each person. I work hard to adjust my own working style and in employing different strategies to meet your needs - to find the thing that works for you.
** NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS ** Hi and welcome - I'm glad you're taking this step in finding a therapist - I hope I can help. My goal is to work with you to identify your main areas of concern/stress and develop a realistic strategy to reach your goals. I am a big fan of “doing what works” which, of course, means a different plan for each person. I work hard to adjust my own working style and in employing different strategies to meet your needs - to find the thing that works for you.
(425) 276-7440 View (425) 276-7440
Photo of Simran K Manhas, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Simran K Manhas
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples/families that are finding that what they are processing in their lives are no longer serving them. Whether it be for recent life transitions, anxiety, PTSD, or depression; whatever path or experiences you have provides the right tools and solutions for what you want to do next in life. Part of my role is to shed light on what is working, what is not working. Together, what you share and express with me is part of identifying what solution(s) may be best for you and how to align those solutions by integrating them into your lifestyle.
I work with individuals and couples/families that are finding that what they are processing in their lives are no longer serving them. Whether it be for recent life transitions, anxiety, PTSD, or depression; whatever path or experiences you have provides the right tools and solutions for what you want to do next in life. Part of my role is to shed light on what is working, what is not working. Together, what you share and express with me is part of identifying what solution(s) may be best for you and how to align those solutions by integrating them into your lifestyle.
(206) 278-3755 View (206) 278-3755
Photo of Elina Kogan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Elina Kogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
I work successfully with adolescents and adults, offer support, insight, and compassion for people who want to know themselves, to transform and enhance relationships, to manage anxiety and depression, as well as to address current issues in the areas of parenting and life transitions.
I work successfully with adolescents and adults, offer support, insight, and compassion for people who want to know themselves, to transform and enhance relationships, to manage anxiety and depression, as well as to address current issues in the areas of parenting and life transitions.
(425) 584-2353 View (425) 584-2353
Photo of Brandy Hofstad, MA, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Brandy Hofstad, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Hello! My speciality is working with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults. As a Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS), I enjoy working with youth while providing a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive, and comfortable environment to discuss challenges and hopes. My passion is helping children and adolescents increase self-awareness, find balance, and develop a healthy emotional awareness by strengthening interpersonal relationships, improving conflict resolution skills, improving communication skills, while learning and developing coping skills. I believe that having good mental health leads to positive self-image and the ability to work with life changes.
Hello! My speciality is working with children, tweens, adolescents, and young adults. As a Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS), I enjoy working with youth while providing a safe, nonjudgmental, supportive, and comfortable environment to discuss challenges and hopes. My passion is helping children and adolescents increase self-awareness, find balance, and develop a healthy emotional awareness by strengthening interpersonal relationships, improving conflict resolution skills, improving communication skills, while learning and developing coping skills. I believe that having good mental health leads to positive self-image and the ability to work with life changes.
(425) 495-3031 View (425) 495-3031
Photo of Traverse Therapy Services, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Traverse Therapy Services
Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
We are currently accepting clients in-person and via telehealth. My name is Julie Bullock and I work with individuals struggling with substance use disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, work issues and chronic illness. Through our connection you will find relief from the bondage of isolation and of habits that no longer serve you. The opportunity for healing is in the telling so together we will carve a safe space for you to tell your story. Through time linked, measurable goals you will be able to see your growth and be proud of who you are becoming.
We are currently accepting clients in-person and via telehealth. My name is Julie Bullock and I work with individuals struggling with substance use disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, work issues and chronic illness. Through our connection you will find relief from the bondage of isolation and of habits that no longer serve you. The opportunity for healing is in the telling so together we will carve a safe space for you to tell your story. Through time linked, measurable goals you will be able to see your growth and be proud of who you are becoming.
(425) 264-8385 View (425) 264-8385
Photo of Steve Sandvik, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Steve Sandvik
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
"I now see how owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do." - Brené Brown I agree. You've already taken a courageous step. I hope to begin a counselor/client relationship that I believe will be a helpful, rewarding, and healing process. Choosing a mental health counselor must be an attentive and conscientious course of action. I offer both individual and group therapy to help increase your self esteem and shame resiliency, combat perfectionism, and to foster your journey towards authenticity, vulnerability, and embracing your story.
"I now see how owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do." - Brené Brown I agree. You've already taken a courageous step. I hope to begin a counselor/client relationship that I believe will be a helpful, rewarding, and healing process. Choosing a mental health counselor must be an attentive and conscientious course of action. I offer both individual and group therapy to help increase your self esteem and shame resiliency, combat perfectionism, and to foster your journey towards authenticity, vulnerability, and embracing your story.
(425) 449-8171 View (425) 449-8171
Photo of Diane Dempcy, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Diane Dempcy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MPH
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
You never feel good enough and the voice in your head is quick to remind you of all the ways you are falling short. You've spent the last months or years trying to keep everything together, but it’s exhausting and you don’t think you can do it anymore. Most days you feel so anxious you can barely breathe or you can’t stop crying. Friends reach out but you would rather pull the covers over your head and numb out to social media, food, alcohol or other things you know are not healthy for you. You can’t motivate yourself to do the things you really want to do. “What’s wrong with me” is a thought that goes everywhere with you.
You never feel good enough and the voice in your head is quick to remind you of all the ways you are falling short. You've spent the last months or years trying to keep everything together, but it’s exhausting and you don’t think you can do it anymore. Most days you feel so anxious you can barely breathe or you can’t stop crying. Friends reach out but you would rather pull the covers over your head and numb out to social media, food, alcohol or other things you know are not healthy for you. You can’t motivate yourself to do the things you really want to do. “What’s wrong with me” is a thought that goes everywhere with you.
(425) 307-4582 View (425) 307-4582
Photo of Beth L Murphy, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Beth L Murphy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Not accepting new clients
I have worked with a wide variety of clients, all of whom have been in different stages of change readiness. I work with all ages as young as 6 years of age to over 60 years of age. My clients struggle with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, grief and loss due to illness, injury, death and life transitions, as well as adjustments to positive transitions, such as job promotion, new business, or marriage. Whatever the issue we will work together to find the client's best solution.
I have worked with a wide variety of clients, all of whom have been in different stages of change readiness. I work with all ages as young as 6 years of age to over 60 years of age. My clients struggle with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, grief and loss due to illness, injury, death and life transitions, as well as adjustments to positive transitions, such as job promotion, new business, or marriage. Whatever the issue we will work together to find the client's best solution.
(425) 610-7848 View (425) 610-7848

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bellevue, WA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Premera
56% Regence
53% Aetna

How Therapists in Bellevue, WA see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Bellevue?

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.