Therapists in Boise, ID

View neighborhoods in Boise
Terry E Miller
Counselor, MS, LCPC, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83709
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While I can't change difficult situations of the past, We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will uncover behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be keeping you from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While I can't change difficult situations of the past, We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will uncover behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be keeping you from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(208) 261-7409 View (208) 261-7409
Photo of Makayla Fisher : Trauma- Anxiety- Life Transitions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boise, ID
Makayla Fisher : Trauma- Anxiety- Life Transitions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
Feel like you're supposed to have life figured out? Feeling lonely, overwhelmed, stressed, stuck, anxious? Out of ideas on how to change it? It's not easy to feel these things and you're not alone. Being human can be difficult & messy & our environments and minds have many natural tendencies that can unintentionally contribute to our suffering. Yet they also have the potential to change & help us move towards the lives we most want to live. Together we can learn how to connect to that power & work WITH the complex aspects of our humanity to create more space for enjoyment & meaning, fun & ease - for ourselves and for our world.
Feel like you're supposed to have life figured out? Feeling lonely, overwhelmed, stressed, stuck, anxious? Out of ideas on how to change it? It's not easy to feel these things and you're not alone. Being human can be difficult & messy & our environments and minds have many natural tendencies that can unintentionally contribute to our suffering. Yet they also have the potential to change & help us move towards the lives we most want to live. Together we can learn how to connect to that power & work WITH the complex aspects of our humanity to create more space for enjoyment & meaning, fun & ease - for ourselves and for our world.
(208) 747-0135 View (208) 747-0135
Photo of Kara Grant, LPC Intern in Boise, ID
Kara Grant
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83709
While life can be full of wonderful moments, there are often painful, difficult experiences that come up in our journey. These experiences may shape who we are, how we interact with others and the world, and leave us feeling stuck. I believe we are all trying to do our best given our life circumstances, but sometimes we need help to implement needed changes or healing. Taking the steps to seek help can often be difficult, so I am glad you are here.
While life can be full of wonderful moments, there are often painful, difficult experiences that come up in our journey. These experiences may shape who we are, how we interact with others and the world, and leave us feeling stuck. I believe we are all trying to do our best given our life circumstances, but sometimes we need help to implement needed changes or healing. Taking the steps to seek help can often be difficult, so I am glad you are here.
(986) 210-1538 View (986) 210-1538
Photo of Alisa J Noleen, Counselor in Boise, ID
Alisa J Noleen
Counselor, MCoun, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
Not accepting new clients
Currently not accepting new clients. She/Her. I offer an ever-evolving counseling environment that is tailored to fit your individual needs, and one that promotes safety and empathy in order to assist you in your healing process. Our path towards mental wellness and personal clarity can often be winding and confusing; having a therapeutic partner during your journey can often make this process more manageable. My clients have told me that their experience in therapy has been supportive and affirming, yet also challenging enough to help them grow and bring out their best, most authentic self.
Currently not accepting new clients. She/Her. I offer an ever-evolving counseling environment that is tailored to fit your individual needs, and one that promotes safety and empathy in order to assist you in your healing process. Our path towards mental wellness and personal clarity can often be winding and confusing; having a therapeutic partner during your journey can often make this process more manageable. My clients have told me that their experience in therapy has been supportive and affirming, yet also challenging enough to help them grow and bring out their best, most authentic self.
(208) 816-4633 View (208) 816-4633
Photo of Jewels (Julie) Meek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boise, ID
Jewels (Julie) Meek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Engaging in therapy is a brave choice. The right fit with your therapist is absolutely key. I will meet you exactly where you are and help you engage with and enjoy your life more. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience helping adults, teens, and children achieve their goals, heal from their painful past experiences, build a more balanced and integrated brain and nervous system, and love and accept themselves more fully. Every individual's path is valid and worthy. If you feel we might be a good fit, it would be an honor to assist you on yours.
Engaging in therapy is a brave choice. The right fit with your therapist is absolutely key. I will meet you exactly where you are and help you engage with and enjoy your life more. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience helping adults, teens, and children achieve their goals, heal from their painful past experiences, build a more balanced and integrated brain and nervous system, and love and accept themselves more fully. Every individual's path is valid and worthy. If you feel we might be a good fit, it would be an honor to assist you on yours.
(208) 963-8241 View (208) 963-8241
Photo of Leann W Vaterlaus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boise, ID
Leann W Vaterlaus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83703
Waitlist for new clients
No one feels shame when they need an “adjustment” at the chiropractor and I see counseling that way—an adjustment in our thinking/functioning that we all need from time to time. Finding the right therapist is important and most of the power of therapy happens when you feel understood, validated, and appreciated. I have a warm and loving personality and I use a direct style to get to the heart of the problem. I am a wife, mother, and grandmother with a lifetime of good and bad experiences that allow me to empathize with a wide variety of people and challenges.
No one feels shame when they need an “adjustment” at the chiropractor and I see counseling that way—an adjustment in our thinking/functioning that we all need from time to time. Finding the right therapist is important and most of the power of therapy happens when you feel understood, validated, and appreciated. I have a warm and loving personality and I use a direct style to get to the heart of the problem. I am a wife, mother, and grandmother with a lifetime of good and bad experiences that allow me to empathize with a wide variety of people and challenges.
(208) 285-3326 View (208) 285-3326
Photo of Brooke Dybka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boise, ID
Brooke Dybka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, IFS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83714  (Online Only)
I am a Certified IFS Therapist and owner of Dybka Behavioral Health, a virtual group practice serving Idaho and specializing in the treatment of disordered eating. At Dybka Behavioral Health, our passion is assisting clients who want recovery, but require guidance. We view eating disorders as protective trauma responses, not disease; and assist clients with the healing and integration of wounds that fuel these trauma responses. In this process, clients learn to access their own sense of Self. If your goal is beyond symptom reduction and into life-long transformation, we are here to help you achieve it.
I am a Certified IFS Therapist and owner of Dybka Behavioral Health, a virtual group practice serving Idaho and specializing in the treatment of disordered eating. At Dybka Behavioral Health, our passion is assisting clients who want recovery, but require guidance. We view eating disorders as protective trauma responses, not disease; and assist clients with the healing and integration of wounds that fuel these trauma responses. In this process, clients learn to access their own sense of Self. If your goal is beyond symptom reduction and into life-long transformation, we are here to help you achieve it.
(986) 234-3388 View (986) 234-3388
Photo of Nicholas W. Anderson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boise, ID
Nicholas W. Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83706
Hello, my name is Nicholas Anderson and I am a counseling intern with Cultivation Counseling. I am currently working toward my licensure as a professional counselor while I finish my masters degree in clinical mental health counseling at Idaho State University. My goal as a counselor is to provide personalized and evidence-based therapies to clients as I support them through their journey of growth, healing, self- discovery and finding self-compassion. Inclusivity is a fundamental aspect of my work as a counselor and I strive to create an environment in which each client feels safe to explore their story with me.
Hello, my name is Nicholas Anderson and I am a counseling intern with Cultivation Counseling. I am currently working toward my licensure as a professional counselor while I finish my masters degree in clinical mental health counseling at Idaho State University. My goal as a counselor is to provide personalized and evidence-based therapies to clients as I support them through their journey of growth, healing, self- discovery and finding self-compassion. Inclusivity is a fundamental aspect of my work as a counselor and I strive to create an environment in which each client feels safe to explore their story with me.
(986) 216-5282 View (986) 216-5282
Photo of Visions Counseling & Education, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boise, ID
Visions Counseling & Education, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704
Here at Visions we are passionate about helping you live your best life, you take the reigns. We specialize in dual-diagnosis/Veteran clients. We work together as a team so that you get the best services and more practice each week through individual counseling, family counseling, and education for family members and your personal support team. Add in Community Based Rehabilitation Services or groups to build that confidence in social skills and daily living skills, creating the independence your working so hard for. Build relationships, gain awareness and skills, increase your support team. Your worth it! Come on in!
Here at Visions we are passionate about helping you live your best life, you take the reigns. We specialize in dual-diagnosis/Veteran clients. We work together as a team so that you get the best services and more practice each week through individual counseling, family counseling, and education for family members and your personal support team. Add in Community Based Rehabilitation Services or groups to build that confidence in social skills and daily living skills, creating the independence your working so hard for. Build relationships, gain awareness and skills, increase your support team. Your worth it! Come on in!
(208) 629-2270 View (208) 629-2270
Photo of Candace Cooper, Counselor in Boise, ID
Candace Cooper
Counselor, LCPC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am happy that you are considering my help for your mental health needs. I have a passion for people, families and couples. I want people to be confident with themselves and happy with who they place themselves around. You may be stuck and confused about areas of your life that work in some ways but in other areas, it is not working.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am happy that you are considering my help for your mental health needs. I have a passion for people, families and couples. I want people to be confident with themselves and happy with who they place themselves around. You may be stuck and confused about areas of your life that work in some ways but in other areas, it is not working.
(208) 510-0432 View (208) 510-0432
Photo of Jeanie Shade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boise, ID
Jeanie Shade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702  (Online Only)
Are you on a journey of self-discovery? Perhaps you have been a lifelong student of self-improvement. Or perhaps you are in the middle of a crisis that has gotten your attention and you notice you are repeating unhealthy patterns in your life. Either way, I would love to work with you and teach you a variety of tools to use for finding the best version of yourself. I can help you sort through and understand complex emotions like shame, guilt, despair, hopelessness, and lack of purpose. I will also help you look at your deepest core beliefs that drive much of what you experience in life and help you to learn how to change them.
Are you on a journey of self-discovery? Perhaps you have been a lifelong student of self-improvement. Or perhaps you are in the middle of a crisis that has gotten your attention and you notice you are repeating unhealthy patterns in your life. Either way, I would love to work with you and teach you a variety of tools to use for finding the best version of yourself. I can help you sort through and understand complex emotions like shame, guilt, despair, hopelessness, and lack of purpose. I will also help you look at your deepest core beliefs that drive much of what you experience in life and help you to learn how to change them.
(208) 418-9963 View (208) 418-9963
Photo of Glory A Wanless, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boise, ID
Glory A Wanless
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
Accepting NEW In Person and Telehealth Clients- If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, having a harder time finding joy in everyday activities, or coping with a major life change, you are not alone, these are very human things to be going through. When we have hard times in life, it can cause us to act in ways that are not helpful to who we want to be. Whether you are struggling with reoccurring issues, are unable to cope in a healthy way, or simply want more peace in your life, counseling can help. I primarily focus on working with adolescents and individuals struggling with addiction.
Accepting NEW In Person and Telehealth Clients- If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, having a harder time finding joy in everyday activities, or coping with a major life change, you are not alone, these are very human things to be going through. When we have hard times in life, it can cause us to act in ways that are not helpful to who we want to be. Whether you are struggling with reoccurring issues, are unable to cope in a healthy way, or simply want more peace in your life, counseling can help. I primarily focus on working with adolescents and individuals struggling with addiction.
(208) 357-9751 View (208) 357-9751
Photo of Annie Mikesell, Counselor in Boise, ID
Annie Mikesell
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
I believe you are a whole, healthy person, who is struggling. Likely for very understandable reasons, some within you and many outside of yourself. My services focus on grief and trauma counseling for people navigating loss, life changes, and various wellness concerns. I am committed to build a relationship with unconditional acceptance, trust, and the safety for you to express the entirety of your experiences. My role is to help you access your innate drive for healing, wholeness, & interdependence and navigate barriers (inside and outside) to well-being. I offer compassion, education & support as you create a path to wellness.
I believe you are a whole, healthy person, who is struggling. Likely for very understandable reasons, some within you and many outside of yourself. My services focus on grief and trauma counseling for people navigating loss, life changes, and various wellness concerns. I am committed to build a relationship with unconditional acceptance, trust, and the safety for you to express the entirety of your experiences. My role is to help you access your innate drive for healing, wholeness, & interdependence and navigate barriers (inside and outside) to well-being. I offer compassion, education & support as you create a path to wellness.
(208) 696-0284 View (208) 696-0284
Photo of Kathleen Kluesner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boise, ID
Kathleen Kluesner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
Do you feel like you and your partner are having the same argument repeatedly? Do you wish you could see yourself the way others see you? Do you find yourself getting caught up in situations or relationships that feel unnecessarily difficult? Many of my clients have experienced similar situations. I often work with people to explore topics such as relationship concerns, self-esteem, body image, communication barriers, stress/anxiety, life transitions and women's issues.
Do you feel like you and your partner are having the same argument repeatedly? Do you wish you could see yourself the way others see you? Do you find yourself getting caught up in situations or relationships that feel unnecessarily difficult? Many of my clients have experienced similar situations. I often work with people to explore topics such as relationship concerns, self-esteem, body image, communication barriers, stress/anxiety, life transitions and women's issues.
(208) 264-2192 View (208) 264-2192
Photo of Tolman Counseling, Counselor in Boise, ID
Tolman Counseling
Counselor, CRC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
Are you looking for a sex positive provider? Look no further, you found me. Humor is an important part of life and a powerful coping skill. I often utilize humor in therapy as a way to connect and process your experiences. I also like to follow and meet my client's needs, and adjust my approach accordingly. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ people, trauma, polyamory, kink, desire discrepancy, and gender. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and both a BSU and UI graduate. I also graduated from University of Michigan with a certificate sex therapy and sex education.
Are you looking for a sex positive provider? Look no further, you found me. Humor is an important part of life and a powerful coping skill. I often utilize humor in therapy as a way to connect and process your experiences. I also like to follow and meet my client's needs, and adjust my approach accordingly. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ people, trauma, polyamory, kink, desire discrepancy, and gender. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and both a BSU and UI graduate. I also graduated from University of Michigan with a certificate sex therapy and sex education.
(208) 314-3171 View (208) 314-3171
Photo of Jon Hite, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Boise, ID
Jon Hite
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
My work is focused on understanding the interconnectedness of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while working to develop understanding of beliefs and values on which behaviors are centered. The foundation of self-understanding supports change and motivation for growth. Within everything I do is a central goal of helping my clients to live fuller and happier lives through insight, growth, and connection to others.
My work is focused on understanding the interconnectedness of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while working to develop understanding of beliefs and values on which behaviors are centered. The foundation of self-understanding supports change and motivation for growth. Within everything I do is a central goal of helping my clients to live fuller and happier lives through insight, growth, and connection to others.
(208) 487-8101 View (208) 487-8101
Photo of Carli Holmes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boise, ID
Carli Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702  (Online Only)
There is no issue too large or small to seek assistance for. I am committed to helping my clients reach their optimal potential in mental, emotional, and social growth. I believe that self-awareness and personal identity are the very heart and core of individuals. My mission is to assist your growth by walking alongside you and providing a non-judgmental, empathetic and safe place to work through any issues, personal development, relationship concerns, and conflict. Together, we can find solutions and develop plans and skills to handle life’s twists and turns.
There is no issue too large or small to seek assistance for. I am committed to helping my clients reach their optimal potential in mental, emotional, and social growth. I believe that self-awareness and personal identity are the very heart and core of individuals. My mission is to assist your growth by walking alongside you and providing a non-judgmental, empathetic and safe place to work through any issues, personal development, relationship concerns, and conflict. Together, we can find solutions and develop plans and skills to handle life’s twists and turns.
(208) 213-2924 View (208) 213-2924
Photo of Susan Virginia Pennington, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boise, ID
Susan Virginia Pennington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
I applaud you for making the first step in looking for a therapist. You may be feeling frustrated and thinking that you are out of hope. Are you lonely and isolated in your pain? Let your pain be the messenger; it is informing you to take action. It is time to make a change. While nothing that you are going through is easy, this pain is the catalyst for growth. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples repair, reconnect and rejuvenate their relationships.
I applaud you for making the first step in looking for a therapist. You may be feeling frustrated and thinking that you are out of hope. Are you lonely and isolated in your pain? Let your pain be the messenger; it is informing you to take action. It is time to make a change. While nothing that you are going through is easy, this pain is the catalyst for growth. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples repair, reconnect and rejuvenate their relationships.
(208) 914-6439 View (208) 914-6439
Photo of Lorn H Adkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boise, ID
Lorn H Adkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
Life seems to be about meeting people, developing relationships, and leaving and letting go of those same important relationships. I've been a therapist for twenty years and more and am still amazed and humbled by the healing power of the therapeutic relationship.
Life seems to be about meeting people, developing relationships, and leaving and letting go of those same important relationships. I've been a therapist for twenty years and more and am still amazed and humbled by the healing power of the therapeutic relationship.
(208) 650-4759 View (208) 650-4759
Photo of Sarah Moore Tracey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boise, ID
Sarah Moore Tracey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83705
Accepting new clients! I enjoy helping clients through this journey we call life. I look forward to helping my clients work through their trauma, figure out their goals, and make feasible stepping stones to create the life they crave. I am passionate about helping all ages find their way in the world especially during life transitions. This could include changes in age from teen to adult, young adult approaching middle age, children, careers, schools, relationships; all of which can be a difficult journey. I'd love to help you find your voice, strengthen your communication, and empower you to venture out on your own path.
Accepting new clients! I enjoy helping clients through this journey we call life. I look forward to helping my clients work through their trauma, figure out their goals, and make feasible stepping stones to create the life they crave. I am passionate about helping all ages find their way in the world especially during life transitions. This could include changes in age from teen to adult, young adult approaching middle age, children, careers, schools, relationships; all of which can be a difficult journey. I'd love to help you find your voice, strengthen your communication, and empower you to venture out on your own path.
(208) 268-1409 View (208) 268-1409

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Boise, ID

900+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Boise, ID who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Blue Cross
64% Regence
61% Aetna

How Therapists in Boise, ID see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
24% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Boise?

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.