Therapists in Amarillo, TX

Photo of Amarillo Child & Family Counseling, Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Amarillo Child & Family Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
At Amarillo Child & Family Counseling, we offer help for: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); Developmental Disorders (Asperger's/Autism); Depression & anxiety; Obsessions & compulsions; Stealing, lying, substance abuse & runaway; Poor social skills; Bed-wetting & self-soiling; Marital & relationship problems; Learning disabilities; Children with Special Needs; Academic problems; Adjustment to divorce, death & family crises; Truancy & poor school performance; Anger & impulse control problems; Tantrums, fighting & aggression; Child & adult victims of abuse and neglect; Low self-esteem & poor self-concept.
At Amarillo Child & Family Counseling, we offer help for: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); Developmental Disorders (Asperger's/Autism); Depression & anxiety; Obsessions & compulsions; Stealing, lying, substance abuse & runaway; Poor social skills; Bed-wetting & self-soiling; Marital & relationship problems; Learning disabilities; Children with Special Needs; Academic problems; Adjustment to divorce, death & family crises; Truancy & poor school performance; Anger & impulse control problems; Tantrums, fighting & aggression; Child & adult victims of abuse and neglect; Low self-esteem & poor self-concept.
(806) 410-0976 View (806) 410-0976
Photo of Caleb Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Caleb Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79101
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that my job as a counselor isn't to "fix" my clients but to help them develop a plan where they can attend to and address the issues in their lives. My aim with my clients isn't simply to help them pause an issue in their lives temporarily but to understand why those issues present themselves in the first place so that they can be dealt with appropriately. I primarily use EMDR to help my clients grow in their lives. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ folx and individuals hoping to deconstruct beliefs/attitudes absorbed through harmful religious upbringings.
I believe that my job as a counselor isn't to "fix" my clients but to help them develop a plan where they can attend to and address the issues in their lives. My aim with my clients isn't simply to help them pause an issue in their lives temporarily but to understand why those issues present themselves in the first place so that they can be dealt with appropriately. I primarily use EMDR to help my clients grow in their lives. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ folx and individuals hoping to deconstruct beliefs/attitudes absorbed through harmful religious upbringings.
(806) 513-5988 View (806) 513-5988
Photo of Dierk Timothy Milum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Dierk Timothy Milum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101
I have 30+ years in the fields of mental health and social work. This has enabled me to become knowledgeable about a vast array of circumstances that people may find themselves to be in. I offer a straightforward approach, offering assistance regarding the resolution of problems affecting individuals or couples, while avoiding confusing psychobabble.
I have 30+ years in the fields of mental health and social work. This has enabled me to become knowledgeable about a vast array of circumstances that people may find themselves to be in. I offer a straightforward approach, offering assistance regarding the resolution of problems affecting individuals or couples, while avoiding confusing psychobabble.
(806) 779-4550 View (806) 779-4550
Photo of Clifford McCormick-Zenor, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Amarillo, TX
Clifford McCormick-Zenor
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79101
Now excepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available! I'm experienced in counseling individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and many other problems. My goal is to help you identify and overcome obstacles in your life that may be blocking your path to healing and happiness.
Now excepting new clients! Evening and weekend appointments available! I'm experienced in counseling individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and many other problems. My goal is to help you identify and overcome obstacles in your life that may be blocking your path to healing and happiness.
(806) 513-5425 View (806) 513-5425
Photo of Sunny Alexander, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Sunny Alexander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
Your healing journey is unique and finding a therapist to develop a safe space with is important. You deserve to give yourself the gift of counseling. Therapy can give you the opportunity to learn the tools to help you thrive. When you invest in yourself you provide the opportunity to set & achieve individual therapy goals, increase self-esteem, create a greater sense of worth and safety, implement coping mechanisms, set boundaries, improve your relationships and overall sense of well-being! Your healing is up to you!
Your healing journey is unique and finding a therapist to develop a safe space with is important. You deserve to give yourself the gift of counseling. Therapy can give you the opportunity to learn the tools to help you thrive. When you invest in yourself you provide the opportunity to set & achieve individual therapy goals, increase self-esteem, create a greater sense of worth and safety, implement coping mechanisms, set boundaries, improve your relationships and overall sense of well-being! Your healing is up to you!
(806) 310-5192 View (806) 310-5192
Photo of Ashley Slover, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Amarillo, TX
Ashley Slover
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79101
Does it feel as if life is outside of your control? Is anxiety becoming overwhelming? Do you feel alone, like no one understands? I can guide you in developing the skills that will lead towards a more fulfilled and satisfying life. In my care, you will experience a relaxed, safe, and nonjudgmental environment. Therapy is not a one size fits all package. Therefore, your treatment plan will be specifically tailored to you and your situation. I meet people on their level, in a genuine, nurturing, and professional way.
Does it feel as if life is outside of your control? Is anxiety becoming overwhelming? Do you feel alone, like no one understands? I can guide you in developing the skills that will lead towards a more fulfilled and satisfying life. In my care, you will experience a relaxed, safe, and nonjudgmental environment. Therapy is not a one size fits all package. Therefore, your treatment plan will be specifically tailored to you and your situation. I meet people on their level, in a genuine, nurturing, and professional way.
(806) 835-5518 View (806) 835-5518
Photo of Tracy Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Tracy Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79111  (Online Only)
If you are ready to shed the pain of the past and soar into a bright new future, I'd love to join your journey and help you along the way. My name is Tracy, and I'm happy you are ready to take the next step in a transformation. I've had more than a decade of experience helping clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD and past/present trauma. My clients appreciate my caring, compassionate, non-judgmental, and genuine counseling style. My therapeutic approaches consist of CBT, mindfulness, solution focused and EMDR. I provide therapy services to clients residing in Texas and Internationally through secure video.
If you are ready to shed the pain of the past and soar into a bright new future, I'd love to join your journey and help you along the way. My name is Tracy, and I'm happy you are ready to take the next step in a transformation. I've had more than a decade of experience helping clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD and past/present trauma. My clients appreciate my caring, compassionate, non-judgmental, and genuine counseling style. My therapeutic approaches consist of CBT, mindfulness, solution focused and EMDR. I provide therapy services to clients residing in Texas and Internationally through secure video.
(806) 216-5436 View (806) 216-5436
Photo of Monica Bellar LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Monica Bellar LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have a holistic perspective to counseling. I believe as humans we can always reach beyond our pain or limitations and can expand our understanding of life experiences to be healthier than we are today. I have 17 years of experience working with children and adolescents dealing with a multitude of issues including anxiety and trauma. I have experience working with blended families and divorce situations. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist through the National Institute for Trauma & Loss In Children.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have a holistic perspective to counseling. I believe as humans we can always reach beyond our pain or limitations and can expand our understanding of life experiences to be healthier than we are today. I have 17 years of experience working with children and adolescents dealing with a multitude of issues including anxiety and trauma. I have experience working with blended families and divorce situations. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist through the National Institute for Trauma & Loss In Children.
(806) 731-4615 View (806) 731-4615
Photo of Allie Eagle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Allie Eagle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79124
Waitlist for new clients
Let's find hope where you're already planted. My goal is to help you discover the solutions and purpose to the challenges you’re experiencing. I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for clients to explore dynamics in their life and grow through the trials they are experiencing. It’s my privilege to partner alongside you to better understand what you’re feeling, why you feel that way, and how you want to move forward. Although we may feel that we don’t have control over our emotions, we do have control over how we react to them.
Let's find hope where you're already planted. My goal is to help you discover the solutions and purpose to the challenges you’re experiencing. I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for clients to explore dynamics in their life and grow through the trials they are experiencing. It’s my privilege to partner alongside you to better understand what you’re feeling, why you feel that way, and how you want to move forward. Although we may feel that we don’t have control over our emotions, we do have control over how we react to them.
(806) 531-3591 View (806) 531-3591
Photo of Lotus Counseling & Recovery Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Lotus Counseling & Recovery Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RSPS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and the storms of life rage. Having a counselor who can provide tools necessary to find a sense of peace and acceptance is so invaluable. Whether you are needing help with anxiety, depression, self esteem and self confidence, stress, guilt/shame, past hurts, relationship issues, or substance use disorders, I use a holistic approach to healing and personal growth and can help you find healthy ways to cope and transform your life. Recovery is possible for everyone and I hope to help you find your pathway.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming and the storms of life rage. Having a counselor who can provide tools necessary to find a sense of peace and acceptance is so invaluable. Whether you are needing help with anxiety, depression, self esteem and self confidence, stress, guilt/shame, past hurts, relationship issues, or substance use disorders, I use a holistic approach to healing and personal growth and can help you find healthy ways to cope and transform your life. Recovery is possible for everyone and I hope to help you find your pathway.
(806) 717-2327 View (806) 717-2327
Photo of Kristi Ohair, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Kristi Ohair
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79121
KRISTI OHAIR NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS My passion is to help clients identify and remove the cause of psychological suffering by getting a clearer understanding of how the mind works and developing resiliency. I also have a professional interest in working with individuals and couples struggling with blended family issues, relationship issues, mental wellness and working with young adults trying to figure out their direction. For the past 28 year, I have been an educator specializing in counseling children and their families. I have also been a mental health counselor at Northwest Texas Hospital in Amarillo, Texas helping indivi
KRISTI OHAIR NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS My passion is to help clients identify and remove the cause of psychological suffering by getting a clearer understanding of how the mind works and developing resiliency. I also have a professional interest in working with individuals and couples struggling with blended family issues, relationship issues, mental wellness and working with young adults trying to figure out their direction. For the past 28 year, I have been an educator specializing in counseling children and their families. I have also been a mental health counselor at Northwest Texas Hospital in Amarillo, Texas helping indivi
(806) 304-0160 View (806) 304-0160
Photo of LeAnn Lynn Sorrels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
LeAnn Lynn Sorrels
Licensed Professional Counselor, M, Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
Compassionate care for all ages. Learn how to effectively manage life trials and tribulation with the help of an experienced professional. Every human being regardless of culture, creed, class, background, race or any other distinguishing characteristic is likely to experience some sort of emotional or mental disturbance throughout the course of their lives. The way you think about aspects of your current life or past experiences can move you from healthy, normal distress to more problematic mental heath disturbance. The good news is that it's totally normal to become mentally disturbed and it is absolutely possible to recover.
Compassionate care for all ages. Learn how to effectively manage life trials and tribulation with the help of an experienced professional. Every human being regardless of culture, creed, class, background, race or any other distinguishing characteristic is likely to experience some sort of emotional or mental disturbance throughout the course of their lives. The way you think about aspects of your current life or past experiences can move you from healthy, normal distress to more problematic mental heath disturbance. The good news is that it's totally normal to become mentally disturbed and it is absolutely possible to recover.
(806) 589-2813 View (806) 589-2813
Photo of Ilean McCarty Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Ilean McCarty Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79109
Spanish sessions available. Are you seeking support and guidance on your journey towards mental well-being? I'm Ilean McCarty, a licensed clinical social worker supervisor, offering personalized and compassionate care through both in person and online session. Tailored to your unique needs, my focus is on empowering individuals through a variety of therapeutic modalities, specializing in addressing challenges such as depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, geriatric concerns and fostering self-esteem. I am dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for your healing journey.
Spanish sessions available. Are you seeking support and guidance on your journey towards mental well-being? I'm Ilean McCarty, a licensed clinical social worker supervisor, offering personalized and compassionate care through both in person and online session. Tailored to your unique needs, my focus is on empowering individuals through a variety of therapeutic modalities, specializing in addressing challenges such as depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, geriatric concerns and fostering self-esteem. I am dedicated to providing a safe and non-judgmental space for your healing journey.
(806) 304-6754 View (806) 304-6754
Photo of Debbie Carr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Debbie Carr
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor interested in helping people who are experiencing grief, loss, anxiety, depression or struggling with any of life's hardships. I offer services to individual children, adults, couples, and families. I strive to provide a judgement free supportive zone that allows us to engage in open and honest dialog. My goal is to help you explore your thoughts and feelings, both positive and negative, without fear of rejection. Our therapeutic relationship will be an important key to your healing. I have a genuine desire to help you become a more healthy and confident individual.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor interested in helping people who are experiencing grief, loss, anxiety, depression or struggling with any of life's hardships. I offer services to individual children, adults, couples, and families. I strive to provide a judgement free supportive zone that allows us to engage in open and honest dialog. My goal is to help you explore your thoughts and feelings, both positive and negative, without fear of rejection. Our therapeutic relationship will be an important key to your healing. I have a genuine desire to help you become a more healthy and confident individual.
(806) 472-4475 View (806) 472-4475
Photo of Cassie Lyon, Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Cassie Lyon
Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
Taking new clients - Immediate openings! We all go through challenging times and it can be hard to know where to start. Difficulties, hardships, and stress are a part of life. Regardless of your life's journey and obstacles, I can help. Counseling is a process we will explore and grow together! I believe in people’s ability to heal and progress after difficult experiences.
Taking new clients - Immediate openings! We all go through challenging times and it can be hard to know where to start. Difficulties, hardships, and stress are a part of life. Regardless of your life's journey and obstacles, I can help. Counseling is a process we will explore and grow together! I believe in people’s ability to heal and progress after difficult experiences.
(806) 513-0987 View (806) 513-0987
Photo of Jonathan McLoughlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Jonathan McLoughlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
Waitlist for new clients
Waiting list for new clients. Counseling can provide support and skills needed to grow and heal. My goal is to work together to help you accomplish your goals and address your struggles. Each client is an individual person, and I base treatment on your unique needs, goals, and presenting problem. I counsel children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
Waiting list for new clients. Counseling can provide support and skills needed to grow and heal. My goal is to work together to help you accomplish your goals and address your struggles. Each client is an individual person, and I base treatment on your unique needs, goals, and presenting problem. I counsel children, teens, adults, couples, and families.
(806) 203-5992 View (806) 203-5992
Photo of Lesli D White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Lesli D White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
Life can be challenging at times. Difficult circumstances can cause us to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or discouraged. We all need support and encouragement at times. As a counselor, I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.Supporting you in identifying your strengths as well as areas you would like to grow is important. Taking the first step to reach out for support can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Life can be challenging at times. Difficult circumstances can cause us to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or discouraged. We all need support and encouragement at times. As a counselor, I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.Supporting you in identifying your strengths as well as areas you would like to grow is important. Taking the first step to reach out for support can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
(806) 591-4884 View (806) 591-4884
Photo of Ali Ramos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Amarillo, TX
Ali Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79102
Not accepting new clients
Being a human is HARD...what can you do about it? I am here to support you on your journey, whatever that might look like. I am experienced with discussing religious trauma and patterns of distress to discover who you were, are, and who you want to become. I am a sex-positive, anti-oppressive therapist who focuses on trauma-informed methods when exploring identities. All identities are welcome and this includes sex workers, transhumans, polyamorous folx, kink/bdsm explorers, and questioning individuals.
Being a human is HARD...what can you do about it? I am here to support you on your journey, whatever that might look like. I am experienced with discussing religious trauma and patterns of distress to discover who you were, are, and who you want to become. I am a sex-positive, anti-oppressive therapist who focuses on trauma-informed methods when exploring identities. All identities are welcome and this includes sex workers, transhumans, polyamorous folx, kink/bdsm explorers, and questioning individuals.
(806) 414-8247 View (806) 414-8247
Photo of John David Pack, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
John David Pack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
I know what it's like to struggle with addiction. The crippling anxiety, the hopeless depression, and the shame and guilt that accompany substance use. If you are struggling with Substance use Disorder and everything that comes with it, let me help you find your way to recovery. There are many different options and ways person can find recovery. Please allow me to walk the road to recovery and freedom with you. Let me support you as you deal with the past and develop a solid foundation for the future. Change your Direction. Change your Life!
I know what it's like to struggle with addiction. The crippling anxiety, the hopeless depression, and the shame and guilt that accompany substance use. If you are struggling with Substance use Disorder and everything that comes with it, let me help you find your way to recovery. There are many different options and ways person can find recovery. Please allow me to walk the road to recovery and freedom with you. Let me support you as you deal with the past and develop a solid foundation for the future. Change your Direction. Change your Life!
(806) 994-4540 View (806) 994-4540
Photo of Karla Stovall Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Amarillo, TX
Karla Stovall Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101
Life can feel like a jungle when we have problems that are holding us down. There is not a single person that has lived very long that has not experienced some issue that seems to control their life. If this is where you are today, know that the support you will receive through therapy can help. While you cannot go back and change the past, you can -- through a therapy plan that is designed specifically for you-- develop a better understanding of the past events, enabling you to resolve challenges in you life and approach life with a clear focus.
Life can feel like a jungle when we have problems that are holding us down. There is not a single person that has lived very long that has not experienced some issue that seems to control their life. If this is where you are today, know that the support you will receive through therapy can help. While you cannot go back and change the past, you can -- through a therapy plan that is designed specifically for you-- develop a better understanding of the past events, enabling you to resolve challenges in you life and approach life with a clear focus.
(806) 853-6259 View (806) 853-6259

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Amarillo, TX

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Amarillo, TX who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
78% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Relationship Issues
72% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Amarillo, TX see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Amarillo?

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.