Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Stephanie Eich, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Stephanie Eich
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
I believe we are all complex beings and that sometimes we need to untangle the past to make sense of the present. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where you are able to speak freely, practice vulnerability and build resilience though personal growth. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to express and identify their emotions to build self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
I believe we are all complex beings and that sometimes we need to untangle the past to make sense of the present. My goal in counseling is to create a safe space where you are able to speak freely, practice vulnerability and build resilience though personal growth. I am passionate about helping my clients learn to express and identify their emotions to build self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
(614) 683-3690 View (614) 683-3690
Photo of Lisa Riddle, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Riddle
Counselor, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
(614) 660-5965 View (614) 660-5965
Photo of Jill M. McCullough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jill M. McCullough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
I want clients to experience the relief that comes with freedom from depression, loss, trauma, and anxiety. I believe that a strong therapeutic bond is one of the keys to mental healing and well-being. I am a Christ-follower, I embrace a Biblical worldview, and I bring a calm, judgement-free perspective to the table. I will respect your decision when it comes to taking or not taking anti-depression or anti-anxiety meds. This is your journey, you are the expert on your own life, and you have my full attention, backing, and support.
(614) 810-8949 View (614) 810-8949
Photo of Dr. Henry Stringer, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dr. Henry Stringer
Counselor, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
If you are hurting from personal problems, feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or the situation you are now facing, then it may be time for you to seek professional help from a qualified counselor. People make choices about relationships, what foods to eat, personal activities, and many other life concerns and conditions. If you make the right choices in your life, chances are happiness and self-fulfillment will come your way. Otherwise, you may find yourself hurting or experiencing unwanted results. I can help you avoid or work through these problems and live a full and happy life.
(614) 654-5912 View (614) 654-5912
Photo of Marti Gottfried, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Marti Gottfried
Counselor, MSEd, PCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
As Emerson once said, "Life is a journey not a destination". And I believe we all face challenges on our journey. I help people who are struggling with those challenges by providing a safe, confidential, and supportive environment. I have over 10 years experience working with individuals, adolescents and families with a focus on helping clients grow, heal, and transform. We join together to build on strengths rather than focus on weaknesses. I provide practical feed-back, problem solving, and coping skills for issues such as, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, divorce, life transitions, communication, and grief and loss.
As Emerson once said, "Life is a journey not a destination". And I believe we all face challenges on our journey. I help people who are struggling with those challenges by providing a safe, confidential, and supportive environment. I have over 10 years experience working with individuals, adolescents and families with a focus on helping clients grow, heal, and transform. We join together to build on strengths rather than focus on weaknesses. I provide practical feed-back, problem solving, and coping skills for issues such as, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, divorce, life transitions, communication, and grief and loss.
(614) 212-5199 View (614) 212-5199
Photo of Melanie Bergsten, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Melanie Bergsten
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Not accepting new clients
Life can be challenging and we all need a place where we can be seen, heard and understood without judgement. You may feel stuck as a result of depression or anxiety or you may want to grow, change or feel more confident and connected to others. I have a passion for helping others as they navigate their unique life path and encounter a variety of life stressors.
Life can be challenging and we all need a place where we can be seen, heard and understood without judgement. You may feel stuck as a result of depression or anxiety or you may want to grow, change or feel more confident and connected to others. I have a passion for helping others as they navigate their unique life path and encounter a variety of life stressors.
(740) 245-3669 View (740) 245-3669
Photo of Angela T. Horton, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Angela T. Horton
Counselor, MACMHC, LPCC-S, NCC, CCMHC, CDCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Waitlist for new clients
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
Helping adults, couples, adolescents, and families have more fulfilling lives is a joy and passion. It is important to show people you care by treating them with kindness and respect. I work with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and survivors of stress-related trauma including emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. As a therapist at a mental health hospital, I facilitated psychotherapy groups and counseled patients struggling with severe depression, severe anxiety, substance use disorder, and stress-related and psychotic disorders. I am also passionate about marriage and enjoy helping couples work through challenges in their relationships.
(614) 389-9452 View (614) 389-9452
Photo of Kimberly Foreman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Kimberly Foreman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISWS
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is ready to do the hard work of making real change in their life. Sometimes, people think change has to be big to start therapeutic services; it doesn’t. Sometimes, learning to breathe, decrease anxiety, and be more mindful of your strengths can become a great asset. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever; sometimes, you just need help getting through the now. I help individuals & families dealing with chronic illnesses and end of life. At times like those, crises often happen: medical conflict, spiritual conflict, familial conflict, financial concerns, housing and food insecurity.
My ideal client is ready to do the hard work of making real change in their life. Sometimes, people think change has to be big to start therapeutic services; it doesn’t. Sometimes, learning to breathe, decrease anxiety, and be more mindful of your strengths can become a great asset. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever; sometimes, you just need help getting through the now. I help individuals & families dealing with chronic illnesses and end of life. At times like those, crises often happen: medical conflict, spiritual conflict, familial conflict, financial concerns, housing and food insecurity.
(380) 600-8826 View (380) 600-8826
Photo of Elizabeth M. Miller, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Elizabeth M. Miller, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
My clients are individuals and couples who find themselves at a point in life where they may feel "stuck," or saying, "I've tried everything and nothing is working." Regardless of one's age, the feeling of being stuck is a common and universal experience. Entering into therapy is not a way to fix things, but rather a time to discover new opportunities for change and growth. It is through those times that the feeling of being stuck can evolve into positive movement and renewed energy.
My clients are individuals and couples who find themselves at a point in life where they may feel "stuck," or saying, "I've tried everything and nothing is working." Regardless of one's age, the feeling of being stuck is a common and universal experience. Entering into therapy is not a way to fix things, but rather a time to discover new opportunities for change and growth. It is through those times that the feeling of being stuck can evolve into positive movement and renewed energy.
(614) 383-9437 x202 View (614) 383-9437 x202
Photo of Spader Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Spader Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D, COBA
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in Psychological Testing/Evaluation services for children, adolescents, and adults. If you are concerned about learning/school problems (including dyslexia), attention/focus difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, and/or developmental delays in yourself or your child, I welcome you to contact me. I also offer testing for giftedness, school admissions procedures, and County Board of Developmental Disabilities eligibility.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in Psychological Testing/Evaluation services for children, adolescents, and adults. If you are concerned about learning/school problems (including dyslexia), attention/focus difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, and/or developmental delays in yourself or your child, I welcome you to contact me. I also offer testing for giftedness, school admissions procedures, and County Board of Developmental Disabilities eligibility.
(614) 532-4197 View (614) 532-4197
Photo of Afton Avalos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Afton Avalos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
If you've decided to take the brave step to reach out for support, then it's my mission to create a safe space so we can get to the hard work of supporting your growth and healing. I work with people who've experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. I strive to create a supportive space where you can safely bring your most difficult and painful experiences, while also experiencing the joy of reconnecting with who you really are, underneath the stress and old, unhelpful ways of coping. When we feel safe and accepted, we can begin the process of shedding what's no longer working for us anymore.
If you've decided to take the brave step to reach out for support, then it's my mission to create a safe space so we can get to the hard work of supporting your growth and healing. I work with people who've experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. I strive to create a supportive space where you can safely bring your most difficult and painful experiences, while also experiencing the joy of reconnecting with who you really are, underneath the stress and old, unhelpful ways of coping. When we feel safe and accepted, we can begin the process of shedding what's no longer working for us anymore.
View
Photo of Jason Stofel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Jason Stofel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
Jason Stofel has been working in the field of social work in various settings since 1994. He began as a direct care staff serving youth involved in the juvenile court system in Delaware, Ohio as well as working with children and teens placed in out of home care at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was in these two settings that he learned the importance of building relationships, providing consistency and behavioral management. He then entered into doing Community Based counseling at Directions for Youth and Families, serving at risk youth and their loved ones.
(380) 207-0861 View (380) 207-0861
Photo of Macey Hawout, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Macey Hawout
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you a young adult woman experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and even trauma? Self-discovery and creating/finding identity are goals I work best with. In my most recent job, I have found that domestic violence survivors and women who experience issues specific to being a woman have piqued my interest. As a therapist, the most rewarding thing is to guide women toward embracing themselves for who they are, heal past wounds, and empower them to live fully and authentically. I believe I have been given a purpose in this world to serve others, and that's what I was created to do.
Are you a young adult woman experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and even trauma? Self-discovery and creating/finding identity are goals I work best with. In my most recent job, I have found that domestic violence survivors and women who experience issues specific to being a woman have piqued my interest. As a therapist, the most rewarding thing is to guide women toward embracing themselves for who they are, heal past wounds, and empower them to live fully and authentically. I believe I have been given a purpose in this world to serve others, and that's what I was created to do.
(380) 214-2821 View (380) 214-2821
Photo of Kristin McConnell, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Kristin McConnell
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
If you entered motherhood with your idealistic views and are now buried under the demands of your family’s needs wondering what happened, or where things went awry, I get it! Whether it's the mental load, stress/burn out, sensory overwhelm, default parenting or things like anxiety, neurodivergent features or life transitions...I'm here for you. As a mother your first priority is everyone else but you deserve to have your needs met too. But how? It starts with feelings supported and empowered. It starts with you taking time for yourself. Let's work together and learn some tools and strategies so you can thrive.
If you entered motherhood with your idealistic views and are now buried under the demands of your family’s needs wondering what happened, or where things went awry, I get it! Whether it's the mental load, stress/burn out, sensory overwhelm, default parenting or things like anxiety, neurodivergent features or life transitions...I'm here for you. As a mother your first priority is everyone else but you deserve to have your needs met too. But how? It starts with feelings supported and empowered. It starts with you taking time for yourself. Let's work together and learn some tools and strategies so you can thrive.
(614) 802-6010 View (614) 802-6010
Photo of Roy McClelland Jr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Roy McClelland Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
(380) 201-9508 View (380) 201-9508
Photo of Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers is dedicated in helping to support older adults during some of life's toughest transitions. As we age, we encounter both expected and unexpected changes which can lead to complicated grief for reasons such as decline in physical health, decreased sense of purpose, loss of loved ones, downsizing stress, and unexpected medical diagnosis/es. These transitions can leave one feeling hopeless and lost. You are not alone, we are here to help you find effective ways to feel better. Please visit our website to learn more about our services, www.cc4seniors.com.
Compassionate Counseling for Seniors & Caregivers is dedicated in helping to support older adults during some of life's toughest transitions. As we age, we encounter both expected and unexpected changes which can lead to complicated grief for reasons such as decline in physical health, decreased sense of purpose, loss of loved ones, downsizing stress, and unexpected medical diagnosis/es. These transitions can leave one feeling hopeless and lost. You are not alone, we are here to help you find effective ways to feel better. Please visit our website to learn more about our services, www.cc4seniors.com.
(380) 201-9885 View (380) 201-9885
Photo of Contessa Bush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Contessa Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
(614) 963-3033 View (614) 963-3033
Photo of Taylor Matthews, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Taylor Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
If you are struggling with adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions, spiritual issues, and grief/loss - I want to help. Children 11+ and adults are welcome! Especially, if you want to gain awareness around emotions/sensations and learn tools to love yourself better! Additionally, I am working towards developing skills in trauma work, child/adolescent therapy, and polyvagal theory.
If you are struggling with adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions, spiritual issues, and grief/loss - I want to help. Children 11+ and adults are welcome! Especially, if you want to gain awareness around emotions/sensations and learn tools to love yourself better! Additionally, I am working towards developing skills in trauma work, child/adolescent therapy, and polyvagal theory.
(614) 482-1816 x5356 View (614) 482-1816 x5356
Photo of Tom Spangler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Tom Spangler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I have experience working with clients who suffer from a range of mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. I take an approach that involves meeting clients where they are. I learn about their stories and assess what the right path is for their needs and goals. Having a client who is open and receptive to therapy is all a therapist could and should ask for.
I have experience working with clients who suffer from a range of mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. I take an approach that involves meeting clients where they are. I learn about their stories and assess what the right path is for their needs and goals. Having a client who is open and receptive to therapy is all a therapist could and should ask for.
(380) 212-2219 View (380) 212-2219
Photo of Charlotte Buelow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Charlotte Buelow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Are you feeling lost in a world that used to feel familiar? Do you feel like you are in a fog, going through the motions but not really engaging? Have you felt overwhelmed by how much there is to do that you haven't been able to let yourself grieve? Some days you may feel like you can tackle that to-do list, and other days the reality hits you like a sucker-punch to the gut. Finding your new normal is a hard and often lonely journey.
Are you feeling lost in a world that used to feel familiar? Do you feel like you are in a fog, going through the motions but not really engaging? Have you felt overwhelmed by how much there is to do that you haven't been able to let yourself grieve? Some days you may feel like you can tackle that to-do list, and other days the reality hits you like a sucker-punch to the gut. Finding your new normal is a hard and often lonely journey.
(380) 333-9913 View (380) 333-9913

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
89% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
69% Self Esteem
65% Grief
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
76% Optum
69% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

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.