Therapists in Apex, NC

Photo of Carolina Counseling Wellness Associates PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Apex, NC
Carolina Counseling Wellness Associates PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
We are now accepting new clients! Life can be stressful, come and take care of your mental health at our beautifully designed wellness center, or you may opt to use our virtual platform for your convenience. We have providers on staff to help with anxiety, depression, family therapy, parenting support, and trauma recovery.
We are now accepting new clients! Life can be stressful, come and take care of your mental health at our beautifully designed wellness center, or you may opt to use our virtual platform for your convenience. We have providers on staff to help with anxiety, depression, family therapy, parenting support, and trauma recovery.
(919) 355-3533 View (919) 355-3533
Photo of Elevate Sport Psychology, Psychologist in Apex, NC
Elevate Sport Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD, CMPC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27539  (Online Only)
Lonnie Sarnell, Psy.D. CMPC is a Clinical and Sport Psychologist and the owner of Elevate Sport Psychology, PLLC. Dr. Sarnell became interested in sport psychology through her personal experience as a Division I lacrosse goalie, and she enjoys working with athletes at all levels. She understands the emotional rollercoaster of competitive sports and wants to make sure you have the resources and skills needed to feel your best. She'll work with you to find a set of resources that feels both feasible given your busy schedule and effective, from individual sessions to team sessions to self-paced courses.
Lonnie Sarnell, Psy.D. CMPC is a Clinical and Sport Psychologist and the owner of Elevate Sport Psychology, PLLC. Dr. Sarnell became interested in sport psychology through her personal experience as a Division I lacrosse goalie, and she enjoys working with athletes at all levels. She understands the emotional rollercoaster of competitive sports and wants to make sure you have the resources and skills needed to feel your best. She'll work with you to find a set of resources that feels both feasible given your busy schedule and effective, from individual sessions to team sessions to self-paced courses.
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Photo of Jeff Johnson, Pastoral Counselor in Apex, NC
Jeff Johnson
Pastoral Counselor, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
The wound is the way. Wise words from a trusted friend that helped me through a low place in my life and shaped my understanding of healing. I learned that avoiding pain and denying its effects only prolongs the suffering. But talking about it, writing about it, and feeling the pain of the wound somehow lessens its effects on us and allows us to go on. Chances are, you're carrying a wound and the pain is getting in the way of your health and happiness, your work and family. Is it a wound of betrayal, agonizing loss, anxiety or depression from childhood trauma, anger that wrecks your interactions with people? The wound is the way.
The wound is the way. Wise words from a trusted friend that helped me through a low place in my life and shaped my understanding of healing. I learned that avoiding pain and denying its effects only prolongs the suffering. But talking about it, writing about it, and feeling the pain of the wound somehow lessens its effects on us and allows us to go on. Chances are, you're carrying a wound and the pain is getting in the way of your health and happiness, your work and family. Is it a wound of betrayal, agonizing loss, anxiety or depression from childhood trauma, anger that wrecks your interactions with people? The wound is the way.
(910) 400-1912 View (910) 400-1912
Deawna Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I have over 15 years experience working in mental health. I have worked with children and youth for 20 years. I have worked with youth in crisis and their families, adults struggling with substance abuse and severe mental illness, youth in the foster system, parents of children in the foster system, individuals incarcerated, as well as post-release. I am familiar with the legal/court system as well as social services. I am well versed in how to locate and use community resources and am very comfortable collaborating with other providers about your overall health and wellness.
I have over 15 years experience working in mental health. I have worked with children and youth for 20 years. I have worked with youth in crisis and their families, adults struggling with substance abuse and severe mental illness, youth in the foster system, parents of children in the foster system, individuals incarcerated, as well as post-release. I am familiar with the legal/court system as well as social services. I am well versed in how to locate and use community resources and am very comfortable collaborating with other providers about your overall health and wellness.
(919) 739-4671 View (919) 739-4671
Photo of Meredith Paige Capps, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Apex, NC
Meredith Paige Capps
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS-A, LPN
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523
Not accepting new clients
I want to help anyone who has emotional pain and/or trauma and is trying to alleviate that by self-medicating in any way, be it alcohol, substances, food, or behaviors.
I want to help anyone who has emotional pain and/or trauma and is trying to alleviate that by self-medicating in any way, be it alcohol, substances, food, or behaviors.
(984) 305-3533 View (984) 305-3533
Photo of Rebecca Clark, Counselor in Apex, NC
Rebecca Clark
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
You are sick of feeling the guilt, frustration, and a constant need to “fix” yourself. You’re tired of yo-yo dieting and hating yourself. You want the guilt and shame to go away so you can feel normal. You feel like you gain weight just by looking at food. You crave sugar all the time. It seems like others don’t experience this struggle like you do. You don't feel in control of your emotions or your body. Work and home responsibilities make things seem even harder to control. Life feels like a vicious cycle you can’t escape from. This cycle is exhausting and you are ready for a change.
You are sick of feeling the guilt, frustration, and a constant need to “fix” yourself. You’re tired of yo-yo dieting and hating yourself. You want the guilt and shame to go away so you can feel normal. You feel like you gain weight just by looking at food. You crave sugar all the time. It seems like others don’t experience this struggle like you do. You don't feel in control of your emotions or your body. Work and home responsibilities make things seem even harder to control. Life feels like a vicious cycle you can’t escape from. This cycle is exhausting and you are ready for a change.
(984) 249-2564 View (984) 249-2564
Photo of Adria Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Apex, NC
Adria Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
It can be exhausting to feel like you've tried it all and keep getting the same results. While on the outside, you seem to have it together, on the inside, you're dealing with chaos. You've tried to set goals, but your mind is too scattered to be consistent. I can support and empower you to be a more healed and powerful version of yourself and break free from sabotaging behaviors. In a world where most people wear masks, it's a privilege to see a soul. This is how I see my role as your therapist. To see past your pain and help you uncover your true inner light.
It can be exhausting to feel like you've tried it all and keep getting the same results. While on the outside, you seem to have it together, on the inside, you're dealing with chaos. You've tried to set goals, but your mind is too scattered to be consistent. I can support and empower you to be a more healed and powerful version of yourself and break free from sabotaging behaviors. In a world where most people wear masks, it's a privilege to see a soul. This is how I see my role as your therapist. To see past your pain and help you uncover your true inner light.
(919) 335-7536 View (919) 335-7536
Photo of Taylor Trull, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Apex, NC
Taylor Trull
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
(984) 600-0978 View (984) 600-0978
Photo of Tequila Sanford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Tequila Sanford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I believe in exploration and facilitating an understanding of the connection between mind, body and soul to achieve deep healing with my clients. I will incorporate humor, as appropriate, which has yielded great results, as it allows my clients to feel more relaxed. Serious challenges don’t have to be addressed in a stringent, cold manner. I am accepting new clients for telehealth sessions and am available for evening appointments. Please reach out to Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness PLLC to schedule. You may call 919-355-9792 or go to our website and complete the "contact us" form to get started.
I believe in exploration and facilitating an understanding of the connection between mind, body and soul to achieve deep healing with my clients. I will incorporate humor, as appropriate, which has yielded great results, as it allows my clients to feel more relaxed. Serious challenges don’t have to be addressed in a stringent, cold manner. I am accepting new clients for telehealth sessions and am available for evening appointments. Please reach out to Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness PLLC to schedule. You may call 919-355-9792 or go to our website and complete the "contact us" form to get started.
(984) 422-3912 View (984) 422-3912
Photo of Joyful Art Therapy LLC, Art Therapist in Apex, NC
Joyful Art Therapy LLC
Art Therapist, MA, NBCT, ATR-P, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I am Vivian Magarino-Gomez and have a M.A. in Art Therapy/Transpersonal Counseling Psychology-which offers clients the best of both eastern and western psychology. With 12 years of mental health experience and 16 years as a public school educator, I offer individual, group, and family therapy for clients age 2-60+ with needs ranging from abuse, trauma, ADHD, gang involvement, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, emerging sexuality issues, and neurodivergence. My past working in emergency services, school-based therapy, day treatment, group homes, and inpatient, fuels my holistic client-centered approach in outpatient art therapy.
I am Vivian Magarino-Gomez and have a M.A. in Art Therapy/Transpersonal Counseling Psychology-which offers clients the best of both eastern and western psychology. With 12 years of mental health experience and 16 years as a public school educator, I offer individual, group, and family therapy for clients age 2-60+ with needs ranging from abuse, trauma, ADHD, gang involvement, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, emerging sexuality issues, and neurodivergence. My past working in emergency services, school-based therapy, day treatment, group homes, and inpatient, fuels my holistic client-centered approach in outpatient art therapy.
(919) 343-5479 View (919) 343-5479
Photo of Marion Reeves Anderson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Apex, NC
Marion Reeves Anderson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Hello! So glad you're here! Asking for help is one of the bravest things someone can do. In a world that tells us to be strong and push through, it can be hard to feel our emotions and say that we need help. Maybe you're struggling with feeling trapped by thoughts about food and your body. Maybe you're struggling with chronic overthinking, feeling down, or a feeling of not measuring up. Whatever it is, I'm here to help! We are not meant to go through life alone - I find it an honor to be trusted to hold so many stories and to walk alongside my clients through whatever is bringing them to my office.
Hello! So glad you're here! Asking for help is one of the bravest things someone can do. In a world that tells us to be strong and push through, it can be hard to feel our emotions and say that we need help. Maybe you're struggling with feeling trapped by thoughts about food and your body. Maybe you're struggling with chronic overthinking, feeling down, or a feeling of not measuring up. Whatever it is, I'm here to help! We are not meant to go through life alone - I find it an honor to be trusted to hold so many stories and to walk alongside my clients through whatever is bringing them to my office.
(919) 213-0276 View (919) 213-0276
Photo of Imani White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Imani White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Hi! I'm a Black female therapist who deeply understands the challenges faced when dealing with societal pressures, trauma - be it generational, historical, racial, or relationship-based, and the general stressors of life. Whether you're grappling with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), anxiety, trauma, PTSD, or depression, know that you are not alone, and I'm here to help. Think of our sessions together as a safe space, a supportive tool to navigate life's ups and downs. I believe in interrupting negative thoughts and feelings that chip away at our self-worth.
Hi! I'm a Black female therapist who deeply understands the challenges faced when dealing with societal pressures, trauma - be it generational, historical, racial, or relationship-based, and the general stressors of life. Whether you're grappling with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), anxiety, trauma, PTSD, or depression, know that you are not alone, and I'm here to help. Think of our sessions together as a safe space, a supportive tool to navigate life's ups and downs. I believe in interrupting negative thoughts and feelings that chip away at our self-worth.
(919) 736-6291 View (919) 736-6291
Photo of Laurin Oxendine-Myers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Apex, NC
Laurin Oxendine-Myers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LPC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523  (Online Only)
I have assisted both individuals and families for over 11 years in various settings to overcome the challenges of divorce, substance abuse, life and family transitions. Together we will build strong communication skills and a healthy foundation to begin a new path in your life! Together we are able to explore past behaviors and patterns that may impact you moving forward. I look forward to creating a plan for a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
I have assisted both individuals and families for over 11 years in various settings to overcome the challenges of divorce, substance abuse, life and family transitions. Together we will build strong communication skills and a healthy foundation to begin a new path in your life! Together we are able to explore past behaviors and patterns that may impact you moving forward. I look forward to creating a plan for a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
(919) 823-5765 View (919) 823-5765
Photo of Susan Sutton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Apex, NC
Susan Sutton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Is your family constantly on edge because of the daily arguing? Are you the parent of a teen that does not understand you? Do you feel that to get in touch with your teen you need to text or Facebook chat? Are you constantly fighting with your spouse over money, discipline and jeolousy? As a middle school counselor I have immersed myself into the lives of adolescents and know how to speak their language. As a parent of two teens I understand the challenges of being a parent and spouse. Are you ready for a positive change?
Is your family constantly on edge because of the daily arguing? Are you the parent of a teen that does not understand you? Do you feel that to get in touch with your teen you need to text or Facebook chat? Are you constantly fighting with your spouse over money, discipline and jeolousy? As a middle school counselor I have immersed myself into the lives of adolescents and know how to speak their language. As a parent of two teens I understand the challenges of being a parent and spouse. Are you ready for a positive change?
(919) 237-9971 View (919) 237-9971
Photo of Katherine Conlon Hutchinson, Psychologist in Apex, NC
Katherine Conlon Hutchinson
Psychologist, PhD, CDWF-C
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Not accepting new clients
I am licensed psychologist with an interest and expertise in anxiety, depression and family/parenting stress. I also treat perinatal anxiety and mood disorders, including postpartum depression. I am particularly passionate about women's mental health across the lifespan, from teen to older adult.
I am licensed psychologist with an interest and expertise in anxiety, depression and family/parenting stress. I also treat perinatal anxiety and mood disorders, including postpartum depression. I am particularly passionate about women's mental health across the lifespan, from teen to older adult.
(919) 303-0377 View (919) 303-0377
Photo of Brittney Peiffer, Counselor in Apex, NC
Brittney Peiffer
Counselor, LCMHCA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Brittney Peiffer is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina who has 6 years experience partnering with young children, adolescents, and adults to help with depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and loss, anger management needs. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and received a Master of Arts in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
Brittney Peiffer is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina who has 6 years experience partnering with young children, adolescents, and adults to help with depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and loss, anger management needs. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and received a Master of Arts in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
(919) 551-6499 View (919) 551-6499
Photo of Sara Riggs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Sara Riggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Your reasons for seeking therapy are valid. I will approach our work together with a compassionate heart and a non-judgmental mind. I want to help my clients create safety and peace in their bodies and feel connected to their world. I believe in empowering my clients through coping skills rooted in mindfulness and somatic practices, encouraging gentle vulnerability, and helping them identify paths towards Self confidence and embodiment. I use the natural world as a therapy setting and tool; I find it helps those who have felt stuck in the past with classic talk therapy.
Your reasons for seeking therapy are valid. I will approach our work together with a compassionate heart and a non-judgmental mind. I want to help my clients create safety and peace in their bodies and feel connected to their world. I believe in empowering my clients through coping skills rooted in mindfulness and somatic practices, encouraging gentle vulnerability, and helping them identify paths towards Self confidence and embodiment. I use the natural world as a therapy setting and tool; I find it helps those who have felt stuck in the past with classic talk therapy.
(919) 689-4227 View (919) 689-4227
Photo of Rachel Garfield, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Apex, NC
Rachel Garfield
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
If you are feeling stuck or alone, we will collaborate to find the best approach for you. I’m Psychoanalytic/Attachment based and believe in balance between insight and action. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, addiction and relationships with adults with the goal of healing the client's relationship within themselves and with others. We will work through your past to free you in the present. If you feel isolated, or trapped in the same repetitive, negative patterns or relationships there is a solution and there is hope. We will work together so that you can find Joy and be free to move forward.
(919) 535-4925 View (919) 535-4925
Photo of Christina Cooper Leadership Coach | Speaker | Consultant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Apex, NC
Christina Cooper Leadership Coach | Speaker | Consultant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Are you in a season of your professional journey where you want more? Have you been living to please others and as a result are living your life on "empty". Are you sick of coming against the same challenges over and over again in your relationships, friendships, and work? Are you struggling to establish and maintain healthy relationships, but can't pinpoint why you're dissatisfied in the areas of your life that matter to you?
Are you in a season of your professional journey where you want more? Have you been living to please others and as a result are living your life on "empty". Are you sick of coming against the same challenges over and over again in your relationships, friendships, and work? Are you struggling to establish and maintain healthy relationships, but can't pinpoint why you're dissatisfied in the areas of your life that matter to you?
(919) 626-3379 View (919) 626-3379
Photo of Latonya L Agard, Pastoral Counselor in Apex, NC
Latonya L Agard
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, DMin
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
Clients who seek my services embrace spiritually-integrated counseling and therapy, which combines empirically-based interventions with spiritual resources in their journey of transformation. Despite the different reasons that bring clients to therapy, all of them need a safe space to unravel the problematic narratives of their lives, embrace the possibility of new futures, and learn new practices that help strengthen personal and communal bonds.
Clients who seek my services embrace spiritually-integrated counseling and therapy, which combines empirically-based interventions with spiritual resources in their journey of transformation. Despite the different reasons that bring clients to therapy, all of them need a safe space to unravel the problematic narratives of their lives, embrace the possibility of new futures, and learn new practices that help strengthen personal and communal bonds.
(984) 207-1874 View (984) 207-1874

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Apex, NC

300+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in Apex, NC who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
75% Coping Skills
66% Trauma and PTSD
65% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% Aetna
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Apex, NC see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Apex?

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.