Therapists in Bellevue, WA

View neighborhoods in Bellevue
Photo of Lingyan Linda Chen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Lingyan Linda Chen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Do you feel stuck in your life and do not know how to move forward? Do you feel inadequate and find it difficult to find good in yourself and your life? Do you often try to please others while ignoring your own needs? Do you struggle to maintain intimate relationships? Do you sometimes feel confused and dissatisfied about yourself and want to know who you are and want to be? If any of these resonates with you, I may be your therapist.
Do you feel stuck in your life and do not know how to move forward? Do you feel inadequate and find it difficult to find good in yourself and your life? Do you often try to please others while ignoring your own needs? Do you struggle to maintain intimate relationships? Do you sometimes feel confused and dissatisfied about yourself and want to know who you are and want to be? If any of these resonates with you, I may be your therapist.
(425) 629-8177 View (425) 629-8177
Photo of Jennie Temple, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Jennie Temple
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
Not accepting new clients
I've always been drawn to the Serenity Prayer and its timeless significance to everyday life - anywhere - at anytime. Across time I often find my role helping people accept what they cannot change. I help them change what they can through identification of their own resources with any input I can provide through my education, training and experience. Together we collaborate for "wisdom to know the difference." My background as a Social Worker, Child Mental Health Specialist, and Clinical Psychologist has given me the depth and breadth to work with most any challenge brought my way.
I've always been drawn to the Serenity Prayer and its timeless significance to everyday life - anywhere - at anytime. Across time I often find my role helping people accept what they cannot change. I help them change what they can through identification of their own resources with any input I can provide through my education, training and experience. Together we collaborate for "wisdom to know the difference." My background as a Social Worker, Child Mental Health Specialist, and Clinical Psychologist has given me the depth and breadth to work with most any challenge brought my way.
(206) 203-0753 View (206) 203-0753
Photo of Emily Elsasser, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Emily Elsasser
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Healthy relationships are essential for everyone, yet that can be a very confusing and complicated task at times. I am passionate about fostering healthy relationships, whether that is with an intimate partner, friend, co-worker, or relative, and would be honored to help facilitate that in our sessions. Together we will explore your actions and choices as they relate to the many types of relationships within your life. Then we put together these puzzle pieces to understand the bigger picture of the influences behind your behavior.
Healthy relationships are essential for everyone, yet that can be a very confusing and complicated task at times. I am passionate about fostering healthy relationships, whether that is with an intimate partner, friend, co-worker, or relative, and would be honored to help facilitate that in our sessions. Together we will explore your actions and choices as they relate to the many types of relationships within your life. Then we put together these puzzle pieces to understand the bigger picture of the influences behind your behavior.
(425) 333-7321 View (425) 333-7321
Photo of Rachel Kalebu, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Rachel Kalebu
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Hi! I’m so happy that you have taken this step in your mental wellness journey. My name is Rachel Kalebu (she/her) and I am passionate about collaborating with teens and young adults in pursuit of mental wellness and healthy mental habits. As your therapist I will provided support for anyone dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideations, and substance abuse. I know it can be tough to face these challenges alone, and I believe you don’t have to. That is why I am eager to support you through this process.
Hi! I’m so happy that you have taken this step in your mental wellness journey. My name is Rachel Kalebu (she/her) and I am passionate about collaborating with teens and young adults in pursuit of mental wellness and healthy mental habits. As your therapist I will provided support for anyone dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideations, and substance abuse. I know it can be tough to face these challenges alone, and I believe you don’t have to. That is why I am eager to support you through this process.
(206) 590-7381 View (206) 590-7381
Photo of D'Anthony Smith, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
D'Anthony Smith
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC, CMPC, ACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
*NOW WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS* Do you have a young athlete who is struggling mentally or emotionally? Is this struggle impacting their lives, relationships, or performance? If so, Unleash! Mental Performance is here. After developing confidence in their skill set, performance, and newfound mindset, your young athlete will have the ability to compete better in both life and sport.
*NOW WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS* Do you have a young athlete who is struggling mentally or emotionally? Is this struggle impacting their lives, relationships, or performance? If so, Unleash! Mental Performance is here. After developing confidence in their skill set, performance, and newfound mindset, your young athlete will have the ability to compete better in both life and sport.
(425) 428-4716 View (425) 428-4716
Photo of Meredith L Gilbert, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Meredith L Gilbert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008
I work with adults age 25 and older who have issues related to binge eating, compulsive overeating, body image, and weight. Many of my patients are also experiencing depression and anxiety. We work together to identify and prioritize the problems you are experiencing and work toward finding realistic solutions. I consider myself a partner in your recovery.
I work with adults age 25 and older who have issues related to binge eating, compulsive overeating, body image, and weight. Many of my patients are also experiencing depression and anxiety. We work together to identify and prioritize the problems you are experiencing and work toward finding realistic solutions. I consider myself a partner in your recovery.
(206) 208-0354 View (206) 208-0354
Photo of Diane Dempcy, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Diane Dempcy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MPH
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
You never feel good enough and the voice in your head is quick to remind you of all the ways you are falling short. You've spent the last months or years trying to keep everything together, but it’s exhausting and you don’t think you can do it anymore. Most days you feel so anxious you can barely breathe or you can’t stop crying. Friends reach out but you would rather pull the covers over your head and numb out to social media, food, alcohol or other things you know are not healthy for you. You can’t motivate yourself to do the things you really want to do. “What’s wrong with me” is a thought that goes everywhere with you.
You never feel good enough and the voice in your head is quick to remind you of all the ways you are falling short. You've spent the last months or years trying to keep everything together, but it’s exhausting and you don’t think you can do it anymore. Most days you feel so anxious you can barely breathe or you can’t stop crying. Friends reach out but you would rather pull the covers over your head and numb out to social media, food, alcohol or other things you know are not healthy for you. You can’t motivate yourself to do the things you really want to do. “What’s wrong with me” is a thought that goes everywhere with you.
(425) 307-4582 View (425) 307-4582
Photo of Susannah Bleakley, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Susannah Bleakley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, IFS, RO-DBT, Couples
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Working with individuals, couples and families struggling with interpersonal relationships, communication, boundaries, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief and loss are my specialities. Many of the clients I see begin therapy with some insight into what's going on with them but feel uncertainty and confusion over how to address it and create the positive changes they desire. Many struggle in their social or romantic relationships, managing work related stress, or say they feel depressed, stressed, emotionally lonely, or sad.
Working with individuals, couples and families struggling with interpersonal relationships, communication, boundaries, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief and loss are my specialities. Many of the clients I see begin therapy with some insight into what's going on with them but feel uncertainty and confusion over how to address it and create the positive changes they desire. Many struggle in their social or romantic relationships, managing work related stress, or say they feel depressed, stressed, emotionally lonely, or sad.
(206) 899-0995 View (206) 899-0995
John O'Malley
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDP, CCFC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
"Love says, 'I am everything.' Wisdom says, 'I am nothing." Between these two, my life flows.” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj Coming back from Vietnam, I found myself drawn to the human psyche and our ability to shape our existence. This exploration led to an intensive study of eastern and western psychological principles and practices. Along this journey, I found my calling - to recognize the innate goodness in all people and help them discover their inner power to transform their lives. I dedicated myself to helping people know they are more than the problems they want to overcome.
"Love says, 'I am everything.' Wisdom says, 'I am nothing." Between these two, my life flows.” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj Coming back from Vietnam, I found myself drawn to the human psyche and our ability to shape our existence. This exploration led to an intensive study of eastern and western psychological principles and practices. Along this journey, I found my calling - to recognize the innate goodness in all people and help them discover their inner power to transform their lives. I dedicated myself to helping people know they are more than the problems they want to overcome.
(206) 981-5922 View (206) 981-5922
Photo of Marc Anderson, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Marc Anderson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Welcome! It takes courage to step toward difficult aspects of life. I think we often get stuck and suffer alone in the areas where we need connection the most. I view therapy as a collaborative process where we look at the root of what is causing pain/suffering from our past stories. Often, patterns are cyclical and repeat in the present. Society often neglects what afflicts one's internal world, and we then learn that the norm in life is to be alone in emotional pain. Unprocessed shame is internalized, which in turn shapes how we view ourselves, relationships, and life experiences.
Welcome! It takes courage to step toward difficult aspects of life. I think we often get stuck and suffer alone in the areas where we need connection the most. I view therapy as a collaborative process where we look at the root of what is causing pain/suffering from our past stories. Often, patterns are cyclical and repeat in the present. Society often neglects what afflicts one's internal world, and we then learn that the norm in life is to be alone in emotional pain. Unprocessed shame is internalized, which in turn shapes how we view ourselves, relationships, and life experiences.
(206) 312-1977 View (206) 312-1977
Photo of Ferda Celen, Mental Health Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Ferda Celen
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Your life feels like constant struggle, your worries keep you awake at night. Yet, you get up, put your best face on, and pretend that everything is OK. Wanted to get help but you are afraid to show what you are going through. You have been suffering; your relationships are suffering and deep down you know that something needs to change. If any of these applies to you, I can help. Sometimes all it takes finding a safe place and someone who are willing to listen without judgement. I can provide you a safe place and help you find your strength and build skills for a better life.
Your life feels like constant struggle, your worries keep you awake at night. Yet, you get up, put your best face on, and pretend that everything is OK. Wanted to get help but you are afraid to show what you are going through. You have been suffering; your relationships are suffering and deep down you know that something needs to change. If any of these applies to you, I can help. Sometimes all it takes finding a safe place and someone who are willing to listen without judgement. I can provide you a safe place and help you find your strength and build skills for a better life.
(425) 728-7595 View (425) 728-7595
Photo of Tonia Davidson Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Tonia Davidson Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
On some level, you're in trouble. You're facing it now, and that's the hardest part. Partnering with an experienced counselor helps individuals and couples move through their most daunting challenges with a sense of purpose and hope for their future. It is my passion to partner with individuals, couples, and families in this very difficult chasm between heartbreak and hope. I help create an intimate and non-threatening setting to honor your commitment toward the next step.
On some level, you're in trouble. You're facing it now, and that's the hardest part. Partnering with an experienced counselor helps individuals and couples move through their most daunting challenges with a sense of purpose and hope for their future. It is my passion to partner with individuals, couples, and families in this very difficult chasm between heartbreak and hope. I help create an intimate and non-threatening setting to honor your commitment toward the next step.
(206) 981-3308 View (206) 981-3308
Photo of Maryellen Dougherty, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Maryellen Dougherty
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist who primarily works with older children, adolescents, and teens. My work focuses on developing and achieving collaborative goals, primarily through assisting in building skill sets to manage emotional, behavioral, medical, and academic challenges your child (or you as a parent) may face.
I am a clinical psychologist who primarily works with older children, adolescents, and teens. My work focuses on developing and achieving collaborative goals, primarily through assisting in building skill sets to manage emotional, behavioral, medical, and academic challenges your child (or you as a parent) may face.
(425) 217-3039 View (425) 217-3039
Photo of Anywhere Wellness Mental Health Care & Medication in Bellevue, WA
Anywhere Wellness Mental Health Care & Medication
PMH-NP, ARNP, BC FNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
New Patients Welcome, offering safe, trusting, affirmative, warm, non-judgmental counseling. Life has its challenges and as a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental Health and weight management, I assist my patients in achieving a higher quality of life through Talk therapy, CBT, Motivational interviewing, Boundary setting & meds. I develop relationships built on mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity and compassion so that concerns can be worked through together in a safe private space! Mental health medication management certification and weight loss medication (Ozempic/Zepbound) counseling offered too!
New Patients Welcome, offering safe, trusting, affirmative, warm, non-judgmental counseling. Life has its challenges and as a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental Health and weight management, I assist my patients in achieving a higher quality of life through Talk therapy, CBT, Motivational interviewing, Boundary setting & meds. I develop relationships built on mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity and compassion so that concerns can be worked through together in a safe private space! Mental health medication management certification and weight loss medication (Ozempic/Zepbound) counseling offered too!
(360) 818-7426 View (360) 818-7426
Photo of Mark Liu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Mark Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I perceive life as a journey, consisting of searching meaning and coping: Meaning in different roles and aspects of life motivates us to move forward; coping is strategies to get there from here. However, at different life stages, we often got stuck because of different reasons. Thus, either we no longer can see the life meaning(s) and/or our coping strategies are no longer effective. We are likely stuck under these circumstances, which leads to sufferings. I believe that counseling is a catalyst to facilitate the needed changes & adjustments to get unstuck and to have a meaningful life again.
I perceive life as a journey, consisting of searching meaning and coping: Meaning in different roles and aspects of life motivates us to move forward; coping is strategies to get there from here. However, at different life stages, we often got stuck because of different reasons. Thus, either we no longer can see the life meaning(s) and/or our coping strategies are no longer effective. We are likely stuck under these circumstances, which leads to sufferings. I believe that counseling is a catalyst to facilitate the needed changes & adjustments to get unstuck and to have a meaningful life again.
(425) 374-0069 View (425) 374-0069
Dustin Ducharme
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 10 years of experience as a provider across outpatient, school, and residential settings. My work is guided by approaches that have been researched and shown to be effective for the problems that I treat, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). As a former school psychologist, I welcome and emphasize collaboration with my client's school districts to create effective wrap-around support. I firmly believe in incorporating experience into treatment and will meet clients outdoors or for activities on a case-by-case basis.
I have over 10 years of experience as a provider across outpatient, school, and residential settings. My work is guided by approaches that have been researched and shown to be effective for the problems that I treat, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). As a former school psychologist, I welcome and emphasize collaboration with my client's school districts to create effective wrap-around support. I firmly believe in incorporating experience into treatment and will meet clients outdoors or for activities on a case-by-case basis.
(425) 537-4155 View (425) 537-4155
Photo of ClearMind-RTT Hypnotherapy, PLLC. in Bellevue, WA
ClearMind-RTT Hypnotherapy, PLLC.
CHT, CLC, CST
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
Emerse yourself in the extraordinary experience of personal growth.My goal is to help you harness the power of your mind to create success in all areas of your life through Rapid Transformational Therapy, Life Coaching and Sound Healing Therapy, where you can explore your ability to make deep and lasting personal changes. During our time together, I’ll guide your subconsciousness to reroute and rewire your neural pathways to help you improve your relationships...with yourself, with your loved ones, with your career, with money blocks, and with others. The sky is the limit of possibilities to live life to the fullest and meaningful.
Emerse yourself in the extraordinary experience of personal growth.My goal is to help you harness the power of your mind to create success in all areas of your life through Rapid Transformational Therapy, Life Coaching and Sound Healing Therapy, where you can explore your ability to make deep and lasting personal changes. During our time together, I’ll guide your subconsciousness to reroute and rewire your neural pathways to help you improve your relationships...with yourself, with your loved ones, with your career, with money blocks, and with others. The sky is the limit of possibilities to live life to the fullest and meaningful.
(206) 875-2886 View (206) 875-2886
Photo of Traverse Therapy Services, Mental Health Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Traverse Therapy Services
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
We are accepting new clients. My name is Hannah Khablein and I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Washington. My clinical experience has consisted of folks across the life-span; working with individuals as well as family systems as they focus on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and folks in general seeking space to explore their life and improve their overall wellness. At the core of my professional practice I believe that the client is the expert of their own life and I aim to take a holistic approach in meeting clients where they are at in their healing process.
We are accepting new clients. My name is Hannah Khablein and I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Washington. My clinical experience has consisted of folks across the life-span; working with individuals as well as family systems as they focus on anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and folks in general seeking space to explore their life and improve their overall wellness. At the core of my professional practice I believe that the client is the expert of their own life and I aim to take a holistic approach in meeting clients where they are at in their healing process.
(425) 470-5612 View (425) 470-5612
Photo of Dr. Michelle Taylor, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Dr. Michelle Taylor
Counselor, PsyD, LMHCA, CDP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Dr. Taylor has significant experience working with individuals with addiction, trauma, infidelity, and chronic pain or illness impacting sexuality. She understands how one’s life can change in the blink of an eye, and how goals and values can shift when life does. It is during these times that individuals, couples, and/or families, can experience varying degrees of difficultly with the transition. How an individual responds is neither right nor wrong, because everyone has their own process and journey in life.
Dr. Taylor has significant experience working with individuals with addiction, trauma, infidelity, and chronic pain or illness impacting sexuality. She understands how one’s life can change in the blink of an eye, and how goals and values can shift when life does. It is during these times that individuals, couples, and/or families, can experience varying degrees of difficultly with the transition. How an individual responds is neither right nor wrong, because everyone has their own process and journey in life.
(425) 470-5712 View (425) 470-5712
Photo of Tori Dabasinskas, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Tori Dabasinskas, LMFT, LPCC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, S-PSB, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working alongside an individual, couple or family motivated to live to their fullest potential in relationships! It is a privilege to be invited into a life story. I take it seriously, work with efficiency and excellence right along with my clients. We listen, we laugh, we cry, we look at what has worked in the past and what can change now. I am creative, confidential, encouraging and empathetic. I love working with people. The Bible tells us we are beautifully and wonderfully made with a hope and a future. I believe this. I live and work into this truth with hope!
I am passionate about working alongside an individual, couple or family motivated to live to their fullest potential in relationships! It is a privilege to be invited into a life story. I take it seriously, work with efficiency and excellence right along with my clients. We listen, we laugh, we cry, we look at what has worked in the past and what can change now. I am creative, confidential, encouraging and empathetic. I love working with people. The Bible tells us we are beautifully and wonderfully made with a hope and a future. I believe this. I live and work into this truth with hope!
(925) 402-4527 View (925) 402-4527

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bellevue, WA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Premera
55% Regence
53% Aetna

How Therapists in Bellevue, WA see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Bellevue?

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.