Therapists in Peoria, IL

Photo of Amy Fischer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Amy Fischer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Waitlist for new clients
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
(309) 247-8323 View (309) 247-8323
Photo of Julie Eaton, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Julie Eaton
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Twists and turns are part of life, but having an impartial voice that lends a new perspective can make navigating them easier. We all have our own struggles, experiences, and obstacles. We also have our own strengths, talents, and resources. Realizing how to utilize your unique strengths to discover ways to overcome obstacles is my passion. We all have our differences and it is those differences that give us strength as individuals, couples, families, and communities.
Twists and turns are part of life, but having an impartial voice that lends a new perspective can make navigating them easier. We all have our own struggles, experiences, and obstacles. We also have our own strengths, talents, and resources. Realizing how to utilize your unique strengths to discover ways to overcome obstacles is my passion. We all have our differences and it is those differences that give us strength as individuals, couples, families, and communities.
(309) 322-9082 View (309) 322-9082
Photo of Hannah Spencer, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Hannah Spencer
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Waitlist for new clients
Life can feel out of control at times, and it can be difficult to slow down and pay attention to ourselves or make desired changes. We might feel like we are trying to survive what life throws at us, rather than living to the fullest. Maybe we find that certain patterns in our lives are creating problems or old coping strategies aren't working anymore. Perhaps after years of avoiding our emotions, they have become too painful and overwhelm us. I strive to create a collaborative, safe, and non-judgmental space to explore what you are going through with compassion and curiosity.
Life can feel out of control at times, and it can be difficult to slow down and pay attention to ourselves or make desired changes. We might feel like we are trying to survive what life throws at us, rather than living to the fullest. Maybe we find that certain patterns in our lives are creating problems or old coping strategies aren't working anymore. Perhaps after years of avoiding our emotions, they have become too painful and overwhelm us. I strive to create a collaborative, safe, and non-judgmental space to explore what you are going through with compassion and curiosity.
(309) 955-5607 View (309) 955-5607
Photo of Kyle Freiburger, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Kyle Freiburger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61604
Beginning the process of counseling can be a very different type of experience. Allowing oneself to be vulnerable enough to discuss personal and sometimes traumatic topics about one’s life is not always an easy task. As someone who has been in counseling, myself, I understand how difficult it can be to take that first step. This is why I became a counselor. I understand that faith can be an important part of one’s life and am able to integrate concepts of faith into counseling, based on each individual’s preference. I also realize that some wish to focus solely on therapeutic concepts and want to engage you where you are.
Beginning the process of counseling can be a very different type of experience. Allowing oneself to be vulnerable enough to discuss personal and sometimes traumatic topics about one’s life is not always an easy task. As someone who has been in counseling, myself, I understand how difficult it can be to take that first step. This is why I became a counselor. I understand that faith can be an important part of one’s life and am able to integrate concepts of faith into counseling, based on each individual’s preference. I also realize that some wish to focus solely on therapeutic concepts and want to engage you where you are.
(309) 274-0765 View (309) 274-0765
Photo of Daniel Osterloo, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Daniel Osterloo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61603
My goal is to help clients achieve as much out of life as possible. I love seeing people live the type of life that makes them happy. Many times, one's full potential for happiness gets overshadowed by life's stressors. During counseling, I guide clients to shed the layers of stress that are creating unnecessary weight. I work with many clients who experience depression and anxiety. I can help you navigate these feelings and find ways to manage your symptoms. I am passionate about helping clients who have experienced trauma. I can help you empower yourself by processing emotions and gaining insight.
My goal is to help clients achieve as much out of life as possible. I love seeing people live the type of life that makes them happy. Many times, one's full potential for happiness gets overshadowed by life's stressors. During counseling, I guide clients to shed the layers of stress that are creating unnecessary weight. I work with many clients who experience depression and anxiety. I can help you navigate these feelings and find ways to manage your symptoms. I am passionate about helping clients who have experienced trauma. I can help you empower yourself by processing emotions and gaining insight.
(779) 237-2237 View (779) 237-2237
Photo of Claire Leech, Psychologist in Peoria, IL
Claire Leech
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Claire Leech is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Claire completed her Bachelor's in Psychology at Bradley University and received her Master's in Counseling at Lincoln Christian University. Claire strives to create an environment of safety and comfort for clients to work through the events that bring them to therapy. She believes in meeting her clients where they are and partnering with them to create goals to overcome their struggles and live the life they desire.
Claire Leech is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. Claire completed her Bachelor's in Psychology at Bradley University and received her Master's in Counseling at Lincoln Christian University. Claire strives to create an environment of safety and comfort for clients to work through the events that bring them to therapy. She believes in meeting her clients where they are and partnering with them to create goals to overcome their struggles and live the life they desire.
(309) 741-5988 View (309) 741-5988
Photo of Shauna Summers, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Shauna Summers
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
I enjoy helping individual adults, couples, and families recognize and overcome any problematic cognitive or behavioral patterns that play a role in holding them back from living their best lives. Sometimes these problematic patterns center around how we think about things like our own worthiness, the trustworthiness of others, and what a successful parent/partner/worker "looks" like. We have been learning these core beliefs about ourselves and the world since before we could walk. Sometimes we stop updating those core beliefs when we get new information and we become stuck. You can get unstuck with Shauna.
I enjoy helping individual adults, couples, and families recognize and overcome any problematic cognitive or behavioral patterns that play a role in holding them back from living their best lives. Sometimes these problematic patterns center around how we think about things like our own worthiness, the trustworthiness of others, and what a successful parent/partner/worker "looks" like. We have been learning these core beliefs about ourselves and the world since before we could walk. Sometimes we stop updating those core beliefs when we get new information and we become stuck. You can get unstuck with Shauna.
(309) 396-6090 View (309) 396-6090
Photo of Kendra Belk, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Kendra Belk
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615  (Online Only)
"Surviving keeps you from living." Often times we are faced with a part of us that refuses to pause and work through those feelings or issues that can be causing discomfort. Instead, it tells us to press on and keep going. The idea that in order to function we must suppress our feelings or emotions tends to have longterm negative effects. If you are tired of just surviving, waking up and pushing through, then it is time for you to learn how to fully live in your truth.
"Surviving keeps you from living." Often times we are faced with a part of us that refuses to pause and work through those feelings or issues that can be causing discomfort. Instead, it tells us to press on and keep going. The idea that in order to function we must suppress our feelings or emotions tends to have longterm negative effects. If you are tired of just surviving, waking up and pushing through, then it is time for you to learn how to fully live in your truth.
(309) 250-3566 View (309) 250-3566
Photo of Nathaniel Oldenburg, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Nathaniel Oldenburg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Connection is why we are here. Too often we focus on what we don't have, what we don't want, and how we don't measure up. This leaves us feeling depressed, disconnected, and isolated. I want to help you ask and answer a different set of questions. What do you already have? What do you really want? What are you passionate about? How are you already good enough?
Connection is why we are here. Too often we focus on what we don't have, what we don't want, and how we don't measure up. This leaves us feeling depressed, disconnected, and isolated. I want to help you ask and answer a different set of questions. What do you already have? What do you really want? What are you passionate about? How are you already good enough?
(309) 315-3649 View (309) 315-3649
Photo of Jaimee York, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Jaimee York
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be hard and if you are struggling with mental health concerns or have been confronted with a new challenge, life can be even harder. Sometimes we're thrown a curve ball and our ways of coping are no longer effective or perhaps your way of thinking has gotten in the way of recovering from emotional pain or loss. Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, I believe we're all doing the best we can and we can all do better. We either possess or can develop skills to manage stressors and improve our quality of life.
Life can be hard and if you are struggling with mental health concerns or have been confronted with a new challenge, life can be even harder. Sometimes we're thrown a curve ball and our ways of coping are no longer effective or perhaps your way of thinking has gotten in the way of recovering from emotional pain or loss. Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, I believe we're all doing the best we can and we can all do better. We either possess or can develop skills to manage stressors and improve our quality of life.
(309) 832-0426 View (309) 832-0426
Photo of Alan Moreland, Marriage & Family Therapist in Peoria, IL
Alan Moreland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Are you addicted to sex, pornography, relationships, or obsessed with love? Do you want to stop your sexual or destructive relationship behaviors, but cannot quit alone? On the verge of losing everything because of out of control sexual behavior. If you're serious about getting help, then call me now. I create a safe place for clients. I am non-judgmental, down-to-earth, genuine, yet firm and direct. I specialize in treating sexual addiction, intimacy problems, and betrayal trauma, helping addicts and partners heal from the wounds, betrayal, and brokenness of sexual and pornography addiction. Get help now. Call now.
Are you addicted to sex, pornography, relationships, or obsessed with love? Do you want to stop your sexual or destructive relationship behaviors, but cannot quit alone? On the verge of losing everything because of out of control sexual behavior. If you're serious about getting help, then call me now. I create a safe place for clients. I am non-judgmental, down-to-earth, genuine, yet firm and direct. I specialize in treating sexual addiction, intimacy problems, and betrayal trauma, helping addicts and partners heal from the wounds, betrayal, and brokenness of sexual and pornography addiction. Get help now. Call now.
(309) 807-9679 View (309) 807-9679
Photo of Lori Bushell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Lori Bushell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Change is possible and I believe you have the ability to create positive changes that will allow healing throughout your journey in life. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions shape the way we interact with others, and in turn, how others interact with us. My approach is to create a safe, non-shaming, compassionate therapeutic environment coupled with a strong emphasis on collaboration. As an experienced and dedicated therapist for over 20 years, my goal is for you to learn tools and effective strategies to reach your mutually agreed upon goals in therapy.
Change is possible and I believe you have the ability to create positive changes that will allow healing throughout your journey in life. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions shape the way we interact with others, and in turn, how others interact with us. My approach is to create a safe, non-shaming, compassionate therapeutic environment coupled with a strong emphasis on collaboration. As an experienced and dedicated therapist for over 20 years, my goal is for you to learn tools and effective strategies to reach your mutually agreed upon goals in therapy.
(309) 517-5081 View (309) 517-5081
Photo of Tonya Camacho, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Tonya Camacho
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Are you feeling helpless, hopeless, and alienated due to addiction? Do you feel beaten down, like there’s no way out? Have you tried to quit and failed? Are you tired of believing the lies of addiction? Are you not sure if you have hit rock bottom? I can help you find the way out. Your bottom is simply when you quit digging. Whether your struggles are with alcohol, drugs, sex & porn addiction, shopping/spending addiction, gambling addiction, I can help. I will walk you through the often painful process of self-discovery and awareness. If you want to get your life back on track, then call me now. I have immediate availability.
Are you feeling helpless, hopeless, and alienated due to addiction? Do you feel beaten down, like there’s no way out? Have you tried to quit and failed? Are you tired of believing the lies of addiction? Are you not sure if you have hit rock bottom? I can help you find the way out. Your bottom is simply when you quit digging. Whether your struggles are with alcohol, drugs, sex & porn addiction, shopping/spending addiction, gambling addiction, I can help. I will walk you through the often painful process of self-discovery and awareness. If you want to get your life back on track, then call me now. I have immediate availability.
(309) 741-2463 View (309) 741-2463
Photo of Nikki Burk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Nikki Burk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
It is my belief that all too often in life, we are dealt situations and circumstances we don't prepare for. We might feel as though we have no support or the proper care we deserve. I feel that therapy can be beneficial in ways that help us understand ourselves in a more positive and healthy way. I encourage putting our mental and physical well-being first, so that we are able to confront the challenges of everyday a little bit easier. I enjoy helping others find strength within themselves, and using this to lead a productive and beneficial lifestyle.
It is my belief that all too often in life, we are dealt situations and circumstances we don't prepare for. We might feel as though we have no support or the proper care we deserve. I feel that therapy can be beneficial in ways that help us understand ourselves in a more positive and healthy way. I encourage putting our mental and physical well-being first, so that we are able to confront the challenges of everyday a little bit easier. I enjoy helping others find strength within themselves, and using this to lead a productive and beneficial lifestyle.
(309) 319-7454 View (309) 319-7454
Photo of Ted Chapin, Psychologist in Peoria, IL
Ted Chapin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
I believe the journey of life presents many challenges and each of these, no matter how overwhelming, provides an opportunity for personal growth and meaningful change. I feel deeply honored when a client asks me to walk with them on their journey. My intent for each client is to give them the support, understanding, skills, insight, motivation and inspiration they may need to meet their current challenge and to grow as an ever maturing, more loving and happier person.
I believe the journey of life presents many challenges and each of these, no matter how overwhelming, provides an opportunity for personal growth and meaningful change. I feel deeply honored when a client asks me to walk with them on their journey. My intent for each client is to give them the support, understanding, skills, insight, motivation and inspiration they may need to meet their current challenge and to grow as an ever maturing, more loving and happier person.
(309) 271-6809 View (309) 271-6809
Photo of Christopher Holly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Christopher Holly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61602
Waitlist for new clients
I am dedicated to working with you to help you find your ability to deal with life and it's challenges by calling on your natural resources and capabilities and seeking a solution that is yours. I believe in the right to self-determination and that all people should have the capability to obtain what they want for their life through the power of therapy. I have worked with veterans of foreign wars, mature adults, teenagers and all kinds of people in between. I find the ability to explore life, understand ourselves and our situation better creates lasting happiness.
I am dedicated to working with you to help you find your ability to deal with life and it's challenges by calling on your natural resources and capabilities and seeking a solution that is yours. I believe in the right to self-determination and that all people should have the capability to obtain what they want for their life through the power of therapy. I have worked with veterans of foreign wars, mature adults, teenagers and all kinds of people in between. I find the ability to explore life, understand ourselves and our situation better creates lasting happiness.
Photo of Morgan Fulton-Gorham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Morgan Fulton-Gorham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Everyone seeks counseling for different reasons. Maybe you have recently experienced a major life event and are looking for an ally to assist you in processing your emotions or thought patterns. Maybe you're looking to shed behaviors that you no longer find useful or healthy, and you believe could use help with the process. Maybe you're seeking new skills that will help you better understand and manage a recent change or diagnosis. No matter your reason for seeking help, my hope is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space of trust where you are able to do the work you need to take back control of your life.
Everyone seeks counseling for different reasons. Maybe you have recently experienced a major life event and are looking for an ally to assist you in processing your emotions or thought patterns. Maybe you're looking to shed behaviors that you no longer find useful or healthy, and you believe could use help with the process. Maybe you're seeking new skills that will help you better understand and manage a recent change or diagnosis. No matter your reason for seeking help, my hope is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space of trust where you are able to do the work you need to take back control of your life.
(309) 271-2178 View (309) 271-2178
Photo of Courtney Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Courtney Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615  (Online Only)
I take a laid-back but interactive approach. It is my goal to empower you while helping you take back your life. I specialize in assisting clients move through anxiety, depression, substance abuse, self-esteem, social problems, relationship/family difficulties, life changes and other challenges. My clients want to live their best life and let go of past pains and burdens that are impacting them from their full potential and highest self.
I take a laid-back but interactive approach. It is my goal to empower you while helping you take back your life. I specialize in assisting clients move through anxiety, depression, substance abuse, self-esteem, social problems, relationship/family difficulties, life changes and other challenges. My clients want to live their best life and let go of past pains and burdens that are impacting them from their full potential and highest self.
(309) 893-1998 View (309) 893-1998
Photo of Caitlin Reeves, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Caitlin Reeves
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Caitlin's clinical specialties include treatment of children and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, transitions in life, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and crises intervention. Her style of counseling is sympathetic, client centered and solution focused. She assists her clients in reducing mental health symptoms and improving their quality of life. She believes that therapy is a collaborative effort between client and therapist in which the counselor helps the client live their best life possible
Caitlin's clinical specialties include treatment of children and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, transitions in life, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and crises intervention. Her style of counseling is sympathetic, client centered and solution focused. She assists her clients in reducing mental health symptoms and improving their quality of life. She believes that therapy is a collaborative effort between client and therapist in which the counselor helps the client live their best life possible
(309) 233-2156 View (309) 233-2156
Photo of Rajashree Iyer, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Rajashree Iyer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Rajashree Ranu Iyer, LCPC, approach is simultaneously compassionate and straightforward. Those seeking her services may experience her as a clinician who gets right to the heart of the issue, speaks with honesty and integrity, and encourages her clients to be the best version of themselves. Ranu earned a graduate degree in counseling and special education from Southern Illinois University. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Tamil, she supports adolescents and third culture kids navigate the difficulties in life.
Rajashree Ranu Iyer, LCPC, approach is simultaneously compassionate and straightforward. Those seeking her services may experience her as a clinician who gets right to the heart of the issue, speaks with honesty and integrity, and encourages her clients to be the best version of themselves. Ranu earned a graduate degree in counseling and special education from Southern Illinois University. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Tamil, she supports adolescents and third culture kids navigate the difficulties in life.
(309) 316-7471 View (309) 316-7471

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Peoria, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Peoria, IL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
90% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
65% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Peoria, IL see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Peoria?

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.