Therapists in Clarkston, MI

Photo of Giesken Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Giesken Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, AT, LLC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48348
Hello, my name is Amanda and I believe this career found me. Ever since I was a child all I wanted was to help people, be outside and create art. I know the power of art because it has helped me through many tough times. Art is how I communicate when I don't have the words to share my inner world with others. I know the power of being heard without judgment or unwelcome advice, because I too have experienced the feeling of isolation and frustration from receiving the opposite. I know the power of having a relationship with the natural world, because it has fostered a sense of belonging and spirituality for me.
Hello, my name is Amanda and I believe this career found me. Ever since I was a child all I wanted was to help people, be outside and create art. I know the power of art because it has helped me through many tough times. Art is how I communicate when I don't have the words to share my inner world with others. I know the power of being heard without judgment or unwelcome advice, because I too have experienced the feeling of isolation and frustration from receiving the opposite. I know the power of having a relationship with the natural world, because it has fostered a sense of belonging and spirituality for me.
(248) 560-6508 View (248) 560-6508
Photo of Marie Megahan, Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Marie Megahan
Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Congratulations on taking the first step and seeking a therapist! I believe that each individual can use an unbiased, supportive person in their life to work through the inevitable difficulties that life throws at us. My job as a therapist is to do just that by helping you to break bad habits, change negative thinking and eliminate self-doubt to allow you to grow as an individual. I have my Master's degree in Counseling, as well as my License in Marriage and Family Therapy, which aims to improve not only the interpersonal system, but also individual satisfaction.
Congratulations on taking the first step and seeking a therapist! I believe that each individual can use an unbiased, supportive person in their life to work through the inevitable difficulties that life throws at us. My job as a therapist is to do just that by helping you to break bad habits, change negative thinking and eliminate self-doubt to allow you to grow as an individual. I have my Master's degree in Counseling, as well as my License in Marriage and Family Therapy, which aims to improve not only the interpersonal system, but also individual satisfaction.
(248) 792-8852 View (248) 792-8852
Photo of Michelle M Wagar, Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Michelle M Wagar
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarkston, MI 48346
I am committed to guiding every individual through the challenges life throws at us by working from the inside out, to achieve mental wellness. I have recognized the need to address these problems and begin the healing process at the root but most of us avoid these problems until they create symptoms at the surface. We can choose to view these symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, as problems or we can find the courage to acknowledge them and ask ourselves “What is our mind and body trying to tell us? What thoughts are we purposely avoiding? What are we running from? What would happen if we no longer let our symptoms control us?
I am committed to guiding every individual through the challenges life throws at us by working from the inside out, to achieve mental wellness. I have recognized the need to address these problems and begin the healing process at the root but most of us avoid these problems until they create symptoms at the surface. We can choose to view these symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, as problems or we can find the courage to acknowledge them and ask ourselves “What is our mind and body trying to tell us? What thoughts are we purposely avoiding? What are we running from? What would happen if we no longer let our symptoms control us?
(248) 487-1351 View (248) 487-1351
Photo of Laurel Greenwood-Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clarkston, MI
Laurel Greenwood-Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarkston, MI 48346
Sometimes when you feel broken, you need the help of another to rebuild. But where do you start when you’re seeking a therapist who is empathetic and experienced, supportive and compassionate? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years experience, I promise I am here to offer you a hand, not a judgment. Over two decades, I have worked with individuals, couples and families specializing in depression, anxiety, grief/loss, bereavement, body image, caregiver stress, family issues, relationship struggles and adjustment disorders/life transitions.
Sometimes when you feel broken, you need the help of another to rebuild. But where do you start when you’re seeking a therapist who is empathetic and experienced, supportive and compassionate? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years experience, I promise I am here to offer you a hand, not a judgment. Over two decades, I have worked with individuals, couples and families specializing in depression, anxiety, grief/loss, bereavement, body image, caregiver stress, family issues, relationship struggles and adjustment disorders/life transitions.
(517) 306-4831 View (517) 306-4831
Photo of Alicia Watt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Alicia Watt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
My goal is to help you work through challenges in your life by encouraging you to explore and discuss these concerns. We will develop goals to work towards change in this process. I work with adults, children, families, and couples. We can process a range of problems including career struggles, depression, anxiety, grief, ineffective coping skills, and relationship problems to name a few.
My goal is to help you work through challenges in your life by encouraging you to explore and discuss these concerns. We will develop goals to work towards change in this process. I work with adults, children, families, and couples. We can process a range of problems including career struggles, depression, anxiety, grief, ineffective coping skills, and relationship problems to name a few.
(248) 487-1488 View (248) 487-1488
Photo of Nancy Gorelick, Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Nancy Gorelick
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48348
I often work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them achieve their personal goals. Many issues addressed in therapy include managing and reducing Depression, Bi-polar and Mood disorders and their symptomology. Anxiety disorders; OCD, Panic disorders, Phobias. Identifying triggers and strategies to help the individual lessen symptomology and increase coping skills are essential. I also assist individuals coping with ADHD, self esteem issues, learning healthy life skills, utilizing effective problem solving skills, and developing relaxation skills. I also work with induvials coping with situational events, and loss.
I often work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them achieve their personal goals. Many issues addressed in therapy include managing and reducing Depression, Bi-polar and Mood disorders and their symptomology. Anxiety disorders; OCD, Panic disorders, Phobias. Identifying triggers and strategies to help the individual lessen symptomology and increase coping skills are essential. I also assist individuals coping with ADHD, self esteem issues, learning healthy life skills, utilizing effective problem solving skills, and developing relaxation skills. I also work with induvials coping with situational events, and loss.
(248) 731-4553 View (248) 731-4553
Photo of April B Winkelman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clarkston, MI
April B Winkelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48348  (Online Only)
My name is April, and I'm a licensed clinical social worker in Michigan. My therapeutic style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a balance of being able to gently challenge the individuals I work with. I like to focus on identifying your strengths, helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles, and empowering you to have the skills you need to leave the therapeutic relationship with confidence that you have the tools you can use independently.
My name is April, and I'm a licensed clinical social worker in Michigan. My therapeutic style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a balance of being able to gently challenge the individuals I work with. I like to focus on identifying your strengths, helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles, and empowering you to have the skills you need to leave the therapeutic relationship with confidence that you have the tools you can use independently.
(248) 365-7671 View (248) 365-7671
Photo of Sharon Ruth Nassau, Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Sharon Ruth Nassau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
Many people struggle with challenges and have the idea that "I should be able to handle this myself". This often leads to frustration and negative feelings. If this sounds familiar, I am happy to partner with you to help you learn more adaptive ways to deal with your concerns. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I can help offer a different perspective, other approaches, and new "tools" to help you overcome the struggles.
Many people struggle with challenges and have the idea that "I should be able to handle this myself". This often leads to frustration and negative feelings. If this sounds familiar, I am happy to partner with you to help you learn more adaptive ways to deal with your concerns. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I can help offer a different perspective, other approaches, and new "tools" to help you overcome the struggles.
(248) 534-4666 View (248) 534-4666
Photo of Julie Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Julie Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
Julie K. Clark has over 20 + years of experience in the field of counseling. She provides an environment of trust and emotional safety, working toward growth and solution-focused results. Ms. Clark can provide professional rehabilitation counseling services, including vocational guidance, physical restoration training & placement to physically and mentally disabled persons. She currently informs the community and general public about resources of vocational rehabilitation services within assigned geographic areas.
Julie K. Clark has over 20 + years of experience in the field of counseling. She provides an environment of trust and emotional safety, working toward growth and solution-focused results. Ms. Clark can provide professional rehabilitation counseling services, including vocational guidance, physical restoration training & placement to physically and mentally disabled persons. She currently informs the community and general public about resources of vocational rehabilitation services within assigned geographic areas.
(248) 975-7242 View (248) 975-7242
Photo of Mackenzie Mercer, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Mackenzie Mercer
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
Not accepting new clients
I am Mackenzie Mercer and I have been practicing therapy since 2017 with children and adolescents. My professional commitment is to provide insight, compassionate support, and the tools to help you navigate through difficult times. I do this to help children, adolescents and adults create the lives they want. Every child, adolescent, and adult deserves an incredible life, but there are times that test our ability to live the life we want. Together, we can get you back on the path to success.
I am Mackenzie Mercer and I have been practicing therapy since 2017 with children and adolescents. My professional commitment is to provide insight, compassionate support, and the tools to help you navigate through difficult times. I do this to help children, adolescents and adults create the lives they want. Every child, adolescent, and adult deserves an incredible life, but there are times that test our ability to live the life we want. Together, we can get you back on the path to success.
(248) 368-0690 View (248) 368-0690
Photo of Julia E McGowen-Bienkowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Julia E McGowen-Bienkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, MA
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48348  (Online Only)
Learning how the body and brain work together makes managing your mental health much more effective. Traditional "one size fits all" talk therapy and medication is often not enough for many people. My approach is person centered, collaborative, holistic and tailored to the individual's needs. Let me help you get back into the driver's seat of your own brain! Get started today!
Learning how the body and brain work together makes managing your mental health much more effective. Traditional "one size fits all" talk therapy and medication is often not enough for many people. My approach is person centered, collaborative, holistic and tailored to the individual's needs. Let me help you get back into the driver's seat of your own brain! Get started today!
(248) 720-6073 View (248) 720-6073
Photo of Kimberly L Jones-Carr in Clarkston, MI
Kimberly L Jones-Carr
MA, LLMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarkston, MI 48346  (Online Only)
Coming to therapy can be a huge step in someone's life. People come to therapy to improve their lives from many different and difficult experiences. Trauma can affect people in many different ways. Using different methods and teaching tools can help improve someone's life. Trauma can be from bullying, car accidents, spousal abuse, child abuse, and other life experiences. Therapy and training give you back the inner peace you need. My approach is humbly understanding what you are going through.
Coming to therapy can be a huge step in someone's life. People come to therapy to improve their lives from many different and difficult experiences. Trauma can affect people in many different ways. Using different methods and teaching tools can help improve someone's life. Trauma can be from bullying, car accidents, spousal abuse, child abuse, and other life experiences. Therapy and training give you back the inner peace you need. My approach is humbly understanding what you are going through.
(248) 218-9513 View (248) 218-9513
Photo of Mackenzie Crandall, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Mackenzie Crandall
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP, LLC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
Counseling is conducted in a professional manner by a trained therapist who aims to ameliorate the mental, emotional, and spiritual health of a person, couple, family, or group. A therapist works to address, alleviate, and assist their client in managing and overcoming (if possible) the psychopathological symptoms manifesting in the client’s relational, social, and cognitive life. A client who shows up and is willing to put the work in, to effectuate the therapeutic change in their lives, will be better off than when they started therapy with me.
Counseling is conducted in a professional manner by a trained therapist who aims to ameliorate the mental, emotional, and spiritual health of a person, couple, family, or group. A therapist works to address, alleviate, and assist their client in managing and overcoming (if possible) the psychopathological symptoms manifesting in the client’s relational, social, and cognitive life. A client who shows up and is willing to put the work in, to effectuate the therapeutic change in their lives, will be better off than when they started therapy with me.
(248) 988-0567 View (248) 988-0567
Photo of Giesken Counseling Services , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clarkston, MI
Giesken Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarkston, MI 48348
Everyone wants to live a life with self-compassion and strong connections to those they care about most, but sometimes we need some help along the way. Therapy can be intimidating, so my number one priority is to provide an environment of safety and trust. For me, the road to healing begins when we recognize that we are each our own worst critic, and that it is okay to not be perfect all the time. I strongly believe that therapy is a collaborative experience, and my main goal is for you to leave each session feeling uplifted, hopeful and one step closer to reaching your personal goals.
Everyone wants to live a life with self-compassion and strong connections to those they care about most, but sometimes we need some help along the way. Therapy can be intimidating, so my number one priority is to provide an environment of safety and trust. For me, the road to healing begins when we recognize that we are each our own worst critic, and that it is okay to not be perfect all the time. I strongly believe that therapy is a collaborative experience, and my main goal is for you to leave each session feeling uplifted, hopeful and one step closer to reaching your personal goals.
(810) 277-9541 View (810) 277-9541
Photo of Carly Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clarkston, MI
Carly Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
Carly Smith is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2011. Carly is compassionate and committed to helping individuals gain insight into themselves and work toward their personal goals in order to live happier and healthier lives. Her approach focuses on seeing the whole person and utilizing techniques that fit their unique, individual needs. Carly has experience working with a variety of ages, genders, backgrounds, and cultures including particular training/interest in women's issues.
Carly Smith is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2011. Carly is compassionate and committed to helping individuals gain insight into themselves and work toward their personal goals in order to live happier and healthier lives. Her approach focuses on seeing the whole person and utilizing techniques that fit their unique, individual needs. Carly has experience working with a variety of ages, genders, backgrounds, and cultures including particular training/interest in women's issues.
(947) 219-0998 View (947) 219-0998
Photo of Ellie Mental Health - Clarkston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Ellie Mental Health - Clarkston
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
At Ellie Mental Health - Clarkston, we see every patient. We pride ourselves on achieving provider diversity of identity and skills so that our team can see clients for wide ranges and combinations of issues including Depression, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Personal Identity, LGBTQ+ Issues, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma and many more. Our providers see adolescents, adults, couples, and families. No matter your concerns, your compassionate Ellie therapist will provide you with the non-judgmental care you deserve.
At Ellie Mental Health - Clarkston, we see every patient. We pride ourselves on achieving provider diversity of identity and skills so that our team can see clients for wide ranges and combinations of issues including Depression, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Personal Identity, LGBTQ+ Issues, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, Relationship Issues, Grief, Trauma and many more. Our providers see adolescents, adults, couples, and families. No matter your concerns, your compassionate Ellie therapist will provide you with the non-judgmental care you deserve.
(248) 920-9829 View (248) 920-9829
Photo of Sue Kolb, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Sue Kolb
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
Deciding to seek therapy can seem overwhelming, but it can be a big step towards healing and happiness in your life. In my thirty plus years of experience I have worked with adolescents thru elderly utilizing individual, marital or family therapy. My practice focuses around empowering you to explore difficult life struggles - whether internal or external struggles. I use a variety of proven approaches. I have expertise and certifications in EFT (tapping), cognitive behavioral therapy and Christian Counseling. I have many years of experience working with alcohol abuse and codependency for family members
Deciding to seek therapy can seem overwhelming, but it can be a big step towards healing and happiness in your life. In my thirty plus years of experience I have worked with adolescents thru elderly utilizing individual, marital or family therapy. My practice focuses around empowering you to explore difficult life struggles - whether internal or external struggles. I use a variety of proven approaches. I have expertise and certifications in EFT (tapping), cognitive behavioral therapy and Christian Counseling. I have many years of experience working with alcohol abuse and codependency for family members
(248) 773-3903 View (248) 773-3903
Photo of Jacklynn Ray, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clarkston, MI
Jacklynn Ray
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarkston, MI 48346
Congratulations on taking your first steps on your mental health journey! I am happy you are here. I am committed to working alongside my clients to reach their mental wellness goals while providing tools to help along the way. I counsel adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My clinical areas of expertise are mood disorders, trauma, interpersonal conflict, conflict management, and promoting well-being. I have experience working in partial hospitalization programs which have allowed me to define and sharpen my competency in these areas.
Congratulations on taking your first steps on your mental health journey! I am happy you are here. I am committed to working alongside my clients to reach their mental wellness goals while providing tools to help along the way. I counsel adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My clinical areas of expertise are mood disorders, trauma, interpersonal conflict, conflict management, and promoting well-being. I have experience working in partial hospitalization programs which have allowed me to define and sharpen my competency in these areas.
(248) 247-7437 View (248) 247-7437
Photo of Rebecca Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Rebecca Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48348  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of clinical experience. I work with people of all ages. If you are struggling to manage your feelings of anxiety and depression I can help. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and relationships issues. I have specialized in the treatment of children with ADHD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am confident in my ability to help you learn appropriate coping mechanisms to improve wellbeing. My approach is authentic and nurturing. I utilize different evidence based therapies to help clients achieve their goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of clinical experience. I work with people of all ages. If you are struggling to manage your feelings of anxiety and depression I can help. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and relationships issues. I have specialized in the treatment of children with ADHD, trauma, and relationship problems. I am confident in my ability to help you learn appropriate coping mechanisms to improve wellbeing. My approach is authentic and nurturing. I utilize different evidence based therapies to help clients achieve their goals.
(248) 260-4108 View (248) 260-4108
Photo of Ryan Powell, Counselor in Clarkston, MI
Ryan Powell
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
When we feel stuck, trapped or insecure about our life, it can be hard to be motivated for change. Whether it is a relationship, a job, or simply just not knowing what to do with the thoughts that come into your head, there is empowerment within yourself for change. You may have recognized that your coping strategies have led to destructive patterns in your life. However, this is not the end for you, but a beginning to rewriting your story and your pathway to your best life. Let’s work together toward a plan with action steps that will empower you to create productive coping strategies that will accomplish your life's goals.
When we feel stuck, trapped or insecure about our life, it can be hard to be motivated for change. Whether it is a relationship, a job, or simply just not knowing what to do with the thoughts that come into your head, there is empowerment within yourself for change. You may have recognized that your coping strategies have led to destructive patterns in your life. However, this is not the end for you, but a beginning to rewriting your story and your pathway to your best life. Let’s work together toward a plan with action steps that will empower you to create productive coping strategies that will accomplish your life's goals.
(248) 509-9484 View (248) 509-9484

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Clarkston, MI

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Clarkston, MI who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
75% Grief
74% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Aetna
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Clarkston, MI see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Clarkston?

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.