Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Madalyn Twist, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Madalyn Twist
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Are you ready to begin taking off the masks that you are afraid of living without but know you cannot live within? Together, we will gently remove old and new masks, allowing for the opportunity to get to know your inner Self. The Self is our inner being, our truth, our soul, our anchor, who often gets hidden away due to traumatic experiences, fears, and others’ expectations. Through witnessing how personal challenges - past and present - can impact individuals in distinct ways, I have grown increasingly passionate about helping others reconnect with life through Self-discovery.
Are you ready to begin taking off the masks that you are afraid of living without but know you cannot live within? Together, we will gently remove old and new masks, allowing for the opportunity to get to know your inner Self. The Self is our inner being, our truth, our soul, our anchor, who often gets hidden away due to traumatic experiences, fears, and others’ expectations. Through witnessing how personal challenges - past and present - can impact individuals in distinct ways, I have grown increasingly passionate about helping others reconnect with life through Self-discovery.
(971) 265-8474 View (971) 265-8474
Photo of Mark Dillon, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Mark Dillon
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I specialize in working with individuals that are involved in a high conflict divorce or an individual or couple that are involved in a DHS child welfare case. People going through these highly stressful experiences can benefit from support, direction, and at times direct assistance in order to successfully get through the legal process. The goal of the work is to facilitate the legal aspect of the case, decrease stress, save the client money, and minimize the impact of the pain or damage to children.
I specialize in working with individuals that are involved in a high conflict divorce or an individual or couple that are involved in a DHS child welfare case. People going through these highly stressful experiences can benefit from support, direction, and at times direct assistance in order to successfully get through the legal process. The goal of the work is to facilitate the legal aspect of the case, decrease stress, save the client money, and minimize the impact of the pain or damage to children.
(503) 438-4985 View (503) 438-4985
Photo of Shira Avigal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Shira Avigal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I use an empathetic and non-judgmental approach paired with practical psychological knowledge. Therapy is a process of understanding important information about yourself and the factors that may be impacting current circumstances. It works through a lens that provides relief and can be a positive experience.
I use an empathetic and non-judgmental approach paired with practical psychological knowledge. Therapy is a process of understanding important information about yourself and the factors that may be impacting current circumstances. It works through a lens that provides relief and can be a positive experience.
(503) 213-6254 View (503) 213-6254
Photo of Thomas Fuller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Thomas Fuller, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, (Ca)
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
You may have worked your issues for a few years, or 10 or more: you’ve started to heal the childhood trauma and you’re experiencing a pretty good sense of stability in your life. But you’re ready for another round of work. Some things are pulling at you or prodding you and you’d like to get some guidance in taking the next step towards waking up in your deeper parts. Perhaps you’d like support in stepping out of the culture of blame that is so rampant right now. Maybe you’d like some help in bringing more kindness and generosity into your relationships and the world. You are wanting to be doing more of what you took birth to do.
You may have worked your issues for a few years, or 10 or more: you’ve started to heal the childhood trauma and you’re experiencing a pretty good sense of stability in your life. But you’re ready for another round of work. Some things are pulling at you or prodding you and you’d like to get some guidance in taking the next step towards waking up in your deeper parts. Perhaps you’d like support in stepping out of the culture of blame that is so rampant right now. Maybe you’d like some help in bringing more kindness and generosity into your relationships and the world. You are wanting to be doing more of what you took birth to do.
(503) 567-1838 View (503) 567-1838
Photo of Vedalia Zellers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Vedalia Zellers
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
If you're interested in healing from old or new wounds, exploring relationship patterns, and/or getting support for oppression and marginalization you face, we might be a good fit. I welcome clients from any background, and I specialize in working with disabled people / people with disabilities (including neurodivergent folks, people with chronic illness, Traumatic Brain Injury survivors, and other groups). As a queer woman with a lifelong visual processing disorder, and I view mental health in social context, recognizing that society's structures can greatly impact your personal sense of safety and wellbeing.
If you're interested in healing from old or new wounds, exploring relationship patterns, and/or getting support for oppression and marginalization you face, we might be a good fit. I welcome clients from any background, and I specialize in working with disabled people / people with disabilities (including neurodivergent folks, people with chronic illness, Traumatic Brain Injury survivors, and other groups). As a queer woman with a lifelong visual processing disorder, and I view mental health in social context, recognizing that society's structures can greatly impact your personal sense of safety and wellbeing.
(971) 251-9595 View (971) 251-9595
Photo of The Gender and Sex Therapy Clinic, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
The Gender and Sex Therapy Clinic, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Finding trustworthy professionals to help you with intimate issues is embarrassing and difficult. You can find a safe space in therapy when you can find it nowhere else. This is my most important skill, something not learned in school: unconditional positive acceptance and honest, non-threatening communication about intimate problems. Here you will find sensitivity to private behaviors which are regarded with non-judgmental acceptance and respect, never shame nor intolerance. Now accepting CareOregon members.
Finding trustworthy professionals to help you with intimate issues is embarrassing and difficult. You can find a safe space in therapy when you can find it nowhere else. This is my most important skill, something not learned in school: unconditional positive acceptance and honest, non-threatening communication about intimate problems. Here you will find sensitivity to private behaviors which are regarded with non-judgmental acceptance and respect, never shame nor intolerance. Now accepting CareOregon members.
(360) 209-2950 View (360) 209-2950
Photo of Gretchen Klipp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Gretchen Klipp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about therapy and the impact that it can have on one’s life. My decision to pursue a career as a therapist was born from my own personal experience with therapy, which helped me overcome significant and sometimes paralyzing anxiety that was preventing me from living the life I desired. I am a strong advocate for eliminating the stigma that our society has placed, and continues to place, on mental health and I share my story with others in hopes of normalizing, validating and highlighting the benefits that therapy can add to each person’s life.
I am passionate about therapy and the impact that it can have on one’s life. My decision to pursue a career as a therapist was born from my own personal experience with therapy, which helped me overcome significant and sometimes paralyzing anxiety that was preventing me from living the life I desired. I am a strong advocate for eliminating the stigma that our society has placed, and continues to place, on mental health and I share my story with others in hopes of normalizing, validating and highlighting the benefits that therapy can add to each person’s life.
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Photo of Lesley Alter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Lesley Alter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Everybody has a story. Often our stories about ourselves and others are formulated when we are very young, trying to make sense of what is going on around us. These stories are often untrue. However, the negative narrative continues into adulthood. I use therapy approaches and techniques that help clients re-author a different story about themselves, others and events that might have occurred. When this healing process occurs, I am inspired as a witness to my clients' transformation as they take steps from struggle to healing. I have been in practice for over 30 years and am a provider on all private insurance plans.
Everybody has a story. Often our stories about ourselves and others are formulated when we are very young, trying to make sense of what is going on around us. These stories are often untrue. However, the negative narrative continues into adulthood. I use therapy approaches and techniques that help clients re-author a different story about themselves, others and events that might have occurred. When this healing process occurs, I am inspired as a witness to my clients' transformation as they take steps from struggle to healing. I have been in practice for over 30 years and am a provider on all private insurance plans.
(503) 567-5701 View (503) 567-5701
Photo of Elana Cohen, Occupational Therapist in Portland, OR
Elana Cohen
Occupational Therapist, OTR/L
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
Seeking support for your young child's development? I have 20 years of experience working with children of all ages in homes, schools, and clinics. I work with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers alongside their families. You may be processing a diagnosis, or wondering about how to best support your child who is developing differently than you expected. My work with children is through play, as play is the language of the child. Come away feeling empowered and equipped to support your child's skill- building while fostering a secure attachment in your relationship with them.
Seeking support for your young child's development? I have 20 years of experience working with children of all ages in homes, schools, and clinics. I work with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers alongside their families. You may be processing a diagnosis, or wondering about how to best support your child who is developing differently than you expected. My work with children is through play, as play is the language of the child. Come away feeling empowered and equipped to support your child's skill- building while fostering a secure attachment in your relationship with them.
(971) 315-9715 View (971) 315-9715
Photo of Ken Kemp, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Ken Kemp
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Welcome! I imagine you want to better understand yourself and get to the root of your issues. You want to learn new skills and coping strategies. You also realize that psychotherapy when done well takes time, patience, and a certain amount of energy. You know that therapy will not always feel good and that fully experiencing one's emotions is essential for growth and well-being. You want to feel seen and heard by your therapist in a non-judging and non-shaming manner. You want your therapist to see your higher potentials and to hold healing intentions towards your growth and change.
Welcome! I imagine you want to better understand yourself and get to the root of your issues. You want to learn new skills and coping strategies. You also realize that psychotherapy when done well takes time, patience, and a certain amount of energy. You know that therapy will not always feel good and that fully experiencing one's emotions is essential for growth and well-being. You want to feel seen and heard by your therapist in a non-judging and non-shaming manner. You want your therapist to see your higher potentials and to hold healing intentions towards your growth and change.
(503) 773-6752 View (503) 773-6752
Photo of Tony Lash, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Tony Lash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I love working with diverse people from a variety of backgrounds. My focus is not only on your personal growth, but also on improving your relationships with romantic partners, family members, and friends. I also love helping couples end negative cycles, heal wounds, and deepen connection. My background as a professional musician and record producer also allows me a deep understanding of issues faced by creative people, including tension between creative drive and other commitments, struggles with creative partners, and feeling unfulfilled when your creative energy is drained by your day job.
I love working with diverse people from a variety of backgrounds. My focus is not only on your personal growth, but also on improving your relationships with romantic partners, family members, and friends. I also love helping couples end negative cycles, heal wounds, and deepen connection. My background as a professional musician and record producer also allows me a deep understanding of issues faced by creative people, including tension between creative drive and other commitments, struggles with creative partners, and feeling unfulfilled when your creative energy is drained by your day job.
(503) 974-0662 View (503) 974-0662
Photo of Stark Counseling , Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Stark Counseling
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
I specialize in working with individuals and couples whose challenges with interpersonal relationships are due to anxiety, depression, and/or past traumatic events. My clients with the best outcomes are willing to engage in deep dialogues, complete "homework" between sessions, and are comfortable with a "hands-on approach” in therapy. I am a good fit for people struggling with social anxiety, depression, religious trauma, life transitions, procrastination, or relationship issues. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA + community and can help people questioning gender identity and heteronormativity.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples whose challenges with interpersonal relationships are due to anxiety, depression, and/or past traumatic events. My clients with the best outcomes are willing to engage in deep dialogues, complete "homework" between sessions, and are comfortable with a "hands-on approach” in therapy. I am a good fit for people struggling with social anxiety, depression, religious trauma, life transitions, procrastination, or relationship issues. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA + community and can help people questioning gender identity and heteronormativity.
(503) 461-8894 View (503) 461-8894
Photo of Ashlee Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Ashlee Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
I have had the privilege of being a resource to individuals facing various challenges. I will be accepting, flexible, and non-judgmental, whether you're exploring questions around anxiety, trauma, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
I have had the privilege of being a resource to individuals facing various challenges. I will be accepting, flexible, and non-judgmental, whether you're exploring questions around anxiety, trauma, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
(720) 741-7581 View (720) 741-7581
Photo of Lydia Blackwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Lydia Blackwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
We're living through a difficult time period, which can compound upon pre-existing traumas, anxieties, stressors, and relational difficulties. I would love to join you alongside your journey to stability, improved quality of life/relationships, and mental health. I will explore with you your past and current experiences and feelings to get to the root of what is causing struggle and assist in locating a path of healing and relief.
We're living through a difficult time period, which can compound upon pre-existing traumas, anxieties, stressors, and relational difficulties. I would love to join you alongside your journey to stability, improved quality of life/relationships, and mental health. I will explore with you your past and current experiences and feelings to get to the root of what is causing struggle and assist in locating a path of healing and relief.
(503) 868-2350 View (503) 868-2350
Photo of Melissa Wijetunga, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Melissa Wijetunga
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97218  (Online Only)
Whether you are new to seeking therapy or are well-versed with the process, I am committed to creating a warm and respectful space to support your sense of self and potential for growth. I work with individuals including children, teens, and adults. Do you find it difficult to cope with the challenges of family, work, or school? Has a recent circumstance caused you to feel lost or uncertain? Have your past traumas distorted your self-view as someone who is broken or unworthy? You can heal and I’m here to help. Together, we’ll build upon the talents and skills you already have to reach your future goals.
Whether you are new to seeking therapy or are well-versed with the process, I am committed to creating a warm and respectful space to support your sense of self and potential for growth. I work with individuals including children, teens, and adults. Do you find it difficult to cope with the challenges of family, work, or school? Has a recent circumstance caused you to feel lost or uncertain? Have your past traumas distorted your self-view as someone who is broken or unworthy? You can heal and I’m here to help. Together, we’ll build upon the talents and skills you already have to reach your future goals.
(503) 563-8619 View (503) 563-8619
Photo of Kate McNulty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kate McNulty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Online therapy in OR, WA, ME, NY & FL. I use a down-to-earth approach and provide active, engaged therapy with plenty of feedback. The best help I provide is often through raising thoughtful questions. Clients appreciate the handouts and other suggestions for resources we use. I especially enjoy helping people with relationship improvement and making relationship decisions. I use a systematic approach to these concerns and you can expect results. I'm sorry to say it can be difficult to arrange free phone consultations, but please email me and I will promptly provide details. My books: Love and Asperger's, Parenting Adult Children.
Online therapy in OR, WA, ME, NY & FL. I use a down-to-earth approach and provide active, engaged therapy with plenty of feedback. The best help I provide is often through raising thoughtful questions. Clients appreciate the handouts and other suggestions for resources we use. I especially enjoy helping people with relationship improvement and making relationship decisions. I use a systematic approach to these concerns and you can expect results. I'm sorry to say it can be difficult to arrange free phone consultations, but please email me and I will promptly provide details. My books: Love and Asperger's, Parenting Adult Children.
(503) 295-6265 View (503) 295-6265
Photo of Stace Parlen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Stace Parlen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
My work is primarily with LGBTQ communities with a specialty in transgender identities. This includes letter writing, supporting individuals, families, and relationships through social, spiritual, medical, and/or the multiple ways one can transition. I also work with LGBTQ individuals and families surrounding day-to-day concerns that may have little to do with their gender and/or sexual orientation. This may include relationship conflict, grief/loss, life transitions, and/or mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression. I currently work with children/teens and adults 10 and up in a private practice setting.
My work is primarily with LGBTQ communities with a specialty in transgender identities. This includes letter writing, supporting individuals, families, and relationships through social, spiritual, medical, and/or the multiple ways one can transition. I also work with LGBTQ individuals and families surrounding day-to-day concerns that may have little to do with their gender and/or sexual orientation. This may include relationship conflict, grief/loss, life transitions, and/or mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression. I currently work with children/teens and adults 10 and up in a private practice setting.
(503) 278-5573 View (503) 278-5573
Photo of Ken Steinbacher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Ken Steinbacher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
My focus includes gender and gender transition, sexuality, racial identity, trauma, and personal growth. I welcome people of all identities. I have trained in supporting people through gender affirming surgeries including letter of support. We will create a safer container for you to explore what hurts and what helps. I find it useful to consider how social, racial, gender, and economic injustice intersects with your experience. This work can be hard and sometimes we uncover painful spots. I incorporate mindfulness and grounding work to promote a safer experience.
My focus includes gender and gender transition, sexuality, racial identity, trauma, and personal growth. I welcome people of all identities. I have trained in supporting people through gender affirming surgeries including letter of support. We will create a safer container for you to explore what hurts and what helps. I find it useful to consider how social, racial, gender, and economic injustice intersects with your experience. This work can be hard and sometimes we uncover painful spots. I incorporate mindfulness and grounding work to promote a safer experience.
(971) 257-5842 View (971) 257-5842
Photo of Matthew David Lovell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Matthew David Lovell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Hello, I am a therapist and clinical supervisor with over 25 years of experience working with adults, adolescents and families throughout the life cycle. My specialties include: life stage transition, couples counseling, parenting challenging teens, depression , anxiety, identity issues, substance abuse, attachment and adjustment to a new normal after a diagnosis or medical intervention. I also provide clinical supervision to interns who are working toward their LPC and LMFT licenses. Visit my website at http://www.matthewlovell.com for more information. Thank you!
Hello, I am a therapist and clinical supervisor with over 25 years of experience working with adults, adolescents and families throughout the life cycle. My specialties include: life stage transition, couples counseling, parenting challenging teens, depression , anxiety, identity issues, substance abuse, attachment and adjustment to a new normal after a diagnosis or medical intervention. I also provide clinical supervision to interns who are working toward their LPC and LMFT licenses. Visit my website at http://www.matthewlovell.com for more information. Thank you!
(503) 549-4447 View (503) 549-4447
Photo of Zara Roth, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Zara Roth
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP, CADC, BS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97216
Waitlist for new clients
With the state of the world, mental health is at an all-time low and we are all experiencing collective trauma. I take climate, pandemic, economic, political, societal, and cultural problems into account, on top of personal issues. My goal has always been to help those with trauma, personality disorders, and depression/anxiety by diving into the unconscious, cultivating self-awareness, and creating practical solutions. My clients are diverse and range from 13-65+ yrs old.
With the state of the world, mental health is at an all-time low and we are all experiencing collective trauma. I take climate, pandemic, economic, political, societal, and cultural problems into account, on top of personal issues. My goal has always been to help those with trauma, personality disorders, and depression/anxiety by diving into the unconscious, cultivating self-awareness, and creating practical solutions. My clients are diverse and range from 13-65+ yrs old.
(503) 773-6563 View (503) 773-6563

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
68% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.