Therapists in Kennewick, WA

Photo of Patricia J Cochran, Counselor in Kennewick, WA
Patricia J Cochran
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
I have been a counselor for 20 years. I strive to create a safe environment in which the client is able to explore and identify areas of their life that have been problematic. It is important to me to get to know my clients and meet them on a moment-to-moment basis and help by entering their world. My approach focuses on the person and assists in the growth process.
I have been a counselor for 20 years. I strive to create a safe environment in which the client is able to explore and identify areas of their life that have been problematic. It is important to me to get to know my clients and meet them on a moment-to-moment basis and help by entering their world. My approach focuses on the person and assists in the growth process.
(509) 309-0944 View (509) 309-0944
Photo of Hanan Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Hanan Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336
I tailor my particular focus and therapeutic approach to your needs. I believe that every individual possesses strength and potential to navigate through the challenges in their life. I aim to be by your side throughout your healing journey and assist you discover your potential right where you are through guidance, understanding, and processing your emotions, feelings, and memories tied to your life experiences. With the intent of developing healthier and more adaptive meaning of those experiences. Ultimately, enhancing your emotional and overall wellbeing.
I tailor my particular focus and therapeutic approach to your needs. I believe that every individual possesses strength and potential to navigate through the challenges in their life. I aim to be by your side throughout your healing journey and assist you discover your potential right where you are through guidance, understanding, and processing your emotions, feelings, and memories tied to your life experiences. With the intent of developing healthier and more adaptive meaning of those experiences. Ultimately, enhancing your emotional and overall wellbeing.
(509) 797-7739 View (509) 797-7739
Photo of Virginia Sliman, Counselor in Kennewick, WA
Virginia Sliman
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336  (Online Only)
I believe each of my clients has the capacity to live a whole-hearted, fulfilling, and authentic life. Each of us struggles from time to time with obstacles that can make it difficult or even impossible to access that authenticity. As a counselor, I have the privilege of supporting my clients in identifying the obstacles and bringing compassion to the parts who feel stuck. In this process, we learn to see ourselves as the unique and valued expressions of life that we are.
I believe each of my clients has the capacity to live a whole-hearted, fulfilling, and authentic life. Each of us struggles from time to time with obstacles that can make it difficult or even impossible to access that authenticity. As a counselor, I have the privilege of supporting my clients in identifying the obstacles and bringing compassion to the parts who feel stuck. In this process, we learn to see ourselves as the unique and valued expressions of life that we are.
(509) 412-3794 View (509) 412-3794
Photo of Carlsen Counseling Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Carlsen Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
Are you in a tough spot? Need someone to talk too? Are your coping abilities to the max? Can’t stop worrying? No motivation? Employment stress, relationship stressors, or just over all not functioning at the top of your abilities? I am here to collaborate with you to get you back on the right track! I work with Adult individuals who are experiencing symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, life stressors, PTSD, Grief and Loss etc. If you have a minute give me a call, I offer a free consultation to see if working together is the best fit. I would love to hear from you!
Are you in a tough spot? Need someone to talk too? Are your coping abilities to the max? Can’t stop worrying? No motivation? Employment stress, relationship stressors, or just over all not functioning at the top of your abilities? I am here to collaborate with you to get you back on the right track! I work with Adult individuals who are experiencing symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, life stressors, PTSD, Grief and Loss etc. If you have a minute give me a call, I offer a free consultation to see if working together is the best fit. I would love to hear from you!
(509) 870-3612 View (509) 870-3612
Photo of Nancy Muñoz-Ruiz, Counselor in Kennewick, WA
Nancy Muñoz-Ruiz
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336
Not accepting new clients
Do you often feel overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety or depression? Do you have a fear of being judged? Come talk to me. Together, we will develop healthier coping mechanisms and communication skills. I specialize in depression and anxiety. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is based on several core principles 1. psychological problems are based, in part on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking, 2. learned patterns of unhelpful behaviors, and 3. thus people can learn better ways of coping with their psychological problems, thereby relieving their symptoms and becoming more effective in their lives.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety or depression? Do you have a fear of being judged? Come talk to me. Together, we will develop healthier coping mechanisms and communication skills. I specialize in depression and anxiety. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is based on several core principles 1. psychological problems are based, in part on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking, 2. learned patterns of unhelpful behaviors, and 3. thus people can learn better ways of coping with their psychological problems, thereby relieving their symptoms and becoming more effective in their lives.
(509) 404-0183 View (509) 404-0183
Photo of Columbia River Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Kennewick, WA
Columbia River Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
I work with a variety of clients from all walks of life. People attend counseling for many reasons, but most of them stem either from difficulties in relationship with others or with self and from some of the "givens" in life, including: death, isolation, lack of meaning, freedom, and responsibility. Those who seek counseling services want to feel happy, live more in line with how they view their world, and/or get along better in their significant relationships.
I work with a variety of clients from all walks of life. People attend counseling for many reasons, but most of them stem either from difficulties in relationship with others or with self and from some of the "givens" in life, including: death, isolation, lack of meaning, freedom, and responsibility. Those who seek counseling services want to feel happy, live more in line with how they view their world, and/or get along better in their significant relationships.
(509) 303-4892 View (509) 303-4892
Photo of Herrera Health LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Herrera Health LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336  (Online Only)
I'm not your typical therapist. I believe in being down-to-earth and relatable. I understand the struggles that come with being a teen or young adult in today's world, and I'm here to listen without any preconceived notions or biases. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, creating a safe environment where you can express yourself freely. In our sessions, you can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationships, or any other challenges life throws your way, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
I'm not your typical therapist. I believe in being down-to-earth and relatable. I understand the struggles that come with being a teen or young adult in today's world, and I'm here to listen without any preconceived notions or biases. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, creating a safe environment where you can express yourself freely. In our sessions, you can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns openly. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationships, or any other challenges life throws your way, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(509) 519-4043 View (509) 519-4043
Photo of Amelia Visaya, Counselor in Kennewick, WA
Amelia Visaya
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336
We all experience distressing emotions and are faced with challenging times in our lives. Sometimes additional support is needed because these experiences can be overwhelming and too much to handle on our own. Sharing your thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences can feel uncomfortable. This is why it is so important to me to provide a safe and caring environment for clients to feel understood and respected. It is my primary goal to build trust and provide support to my clients.
We all experience distressing emotions and are faced with challenging times in our lives. Sometimes additional support is needed because these experiences can be overwhelming and too much to handle on our own. Sharing your thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences can feel uncomfortable. This is why it is so important to me to provide a safe and caring environment for clients to feel understood and respected. It is my primary goal to build trust and provide support to my clients.
(509) 731-3963 View (509) 731-3963
Photo of Darci Miland, Counselor in Kennewick, WA
Darci Miland
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be hard. Therapy doesn't have to be. In a world full of pressure to "get it right" it's easy to feel wrong! Sometimes we are facing unchangeable circumstances. Sometimes we have hard choices to make. Sometimes we just think we're supposed to be different. I believe our greatest struggle is being torn between who we think we should be and who we are able to be. Exploring our origin stories, guiding values, and present choices allows us to align with who we are in a meaningful way. With respectful humor - mostly sarcastic jokes about life's ironies - we can work together to find who you want to be.
Life can be hard. Therapy doesn't have to be. In a world full of pressure to "get it right" it's easy to feel wrong! Sometimes we are facing unchangeable circumstances. Sometimes we have hard choices to make. Sometimes we just think we're supposed to be different. I believe our greatest struggle is being torn between who we think we should be and who we are able to be. Exploring our origin stories, guiding values, and present choices allows us to align with who we are in a meaningful way. With respectful humor - mostly sarcastic jokes about life's ironies - we can work together to find who you want to be.
(509) 856-8513 View (509) 856-8513
Photo of Jana Sheehan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Jana Sheehan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* I believe that the understanding of one’s past can help you face the challenges of the present which will lay the groundwork for achieving a healthier future. Every person is a unique individual, who has been shaped by different experiences, and is in possession of special abilities that can help them address their personal issues. Aligning those abilities with proven strategies to help you reach your goals, is just one of the several methods I use to help my clients.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* I believe that the understanding of one’s past can help you face the challenges of the present which will lay the groundwork for achieving a healthier future. Every person is a unique individual, who has been shaped by different experiences, and is in possession of special abilities that can help them address their personal issues. Aligning those abilities with proven strategies to help you reach your goals, is just one of the several methods I use to help my clients.
(509) 233-4220 View (509) 233-4220
Photo of Callow Counseling & Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Callow Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336  (Online Only)
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Depression. Anxiety. Stressful relationships and situations. Dealing with a difficult medical diagnosis. Grief and loss. Communication and relationship issues. Let's face it; sometimes life isn't easy especially today. Therapy can help provide positive coping skills, practical tools, and a safe environment for expressing our feelings and getting support during difficult times in our lives. Life can always improve when we face our obstacles and develop new, positive ways of coping in our most trying situations.
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** Depression. Anxiety. Stressful relationships and situations. Dealing with a difficult medical diagnosis. Grief and loss. Communication and relationship issues. Let's face it; sometimes life isn't easy especially today. Therapy can help provide positive coping skills, practical tools, and a safe environment for expressing our feelings and getting support during difficult times in our lives. Life can always improve when we face our obstacles and develop new, positive ways of coping in our most trying situations.
(509) 436-7457 View (509) 436-7457
Photo of Maryann H Michaelis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Maryann H Michaelis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW/, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Does life feel out of control? As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist, trained in ART & EMDR, I specialize in helping individuals find hope, recovery and healing from infidelity, porn/sex addiction, partner betrayal trauma, PTSD, depression/anxiety, grief, loss, and divorce. I am licensed in Washington, Idaho, Oregon and Hawaii, and my goal is to provide a safe space where clients find and give voice to their stories and achieve personal growth, empowerment, and change through self-compassion and self-care, while challenging the patterns and barriers which prevent them from living joyfully.
Does life feel out of control? As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist, trained in ART & EMDR, I specialize in helping individuals find hope, recovery and healing from infidelity, porn/sex addiction, partner betrayal trauma, PTSD, depression/anxiety, grief, loss, and divorce. I am licensed in Washington, Idaho, Oregon and Hawaii, and my goal is to provide a safe space where clients find and give voice to their stories and achieve personal growth, empowerment, and change through self-compassion and self-care, while challenging the patterns and barriers which prevent them from living joyfully.
(509) 266-0778 View (509) 266-0778
Photo of Nicole Noyes, MA, LMHC, Counselor in Kennewick, WA
Nicole Noyes, MA, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336
Not accepting new clients
Are you reeling from the gravity of world events since 2020? Feeling overwhelmed? Frustrated? Disillusioned? Were you already stressed prior to 2020? Often current events tug at past unresolved experiences causing over-pronounced reactions in the here & now. I'm here to help. I have the specific & necessary experience, particularly with traumatic and/or disturbing events, to help you address your individual issues. Our work together will maximize your capacity for transformation. I look forward to meeting you.
Are you reeling from the gravity of world events since 2020? Feeling overwhelmed? Frustrated? Disillusioned? Were you already stressed prior to 2020? Often current events tug at past unresolved experiences causing over-pronounced reactions in the here & now. I'm here to help. I have the specific & necessary experience, particularly with traumatic and/or disturbing events, to help you address your individual issues. Our work together will maximize your capacity for transformation. I look forward to meeting you.
(509) 769-3376 View (509) 769-3376
Photo of Brandie Frisby PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Brandie Frisby PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
Waitlist for new clients
Counseling is an opportunity for personal exploration, growth and self-discovery. It is often sought when life challenges arise, when our ability to cope with daily life is compromised, or when relationships begin to suffer. Counseling is a journey that may involve some discomfort as you seek to understand and challenge your most inner thoughts and beliefs. Engagement in counseling is designed to bring about changes to your life's perspectives and consequently the decisions you make as well as the behaviors you elicit.
Counseling is an opportunity for personal exploration, growth and self-discovery. It is often sought when life challenges arise, when our ability to cope with daily life is compromised, or when relationships begin to suffer. Counseling is a journey that may involve some discomfort as you seek to understand and challenge your most inner thoughts and beliefs. Engagement in counseling is designed to bring about changes to your life's perspectives and consequently the decisions you make as well as the behaviors you elicit.
(509) 956-4616 View (509) 956-4616
Photo of Brenda Hollingsworth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Brenda Hollingsworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to come along side you by engaging in conversation that brings healing, builds your coping skills, and provides education and resources encouraging your growth and change. I will partner with you to improve your quality of life by bringing clarity, curiosity and compassion to whatever you are experiencing, whether depression, anxiety, out of control emotions, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, a life transition, grief, or an issue uniquely yours. Counseling is a joint effort, which cannot be successful without your hard work, energy and courage. I invite you to contact me to work together toward your goals.
My goal is to come along side you by engaging in conversation that brings healing, builds your coping skills, and provides education and resources encouraging your growth and change. I will partner with you to improve your quality of life by bringing clarity, curiosity and compassion to whatever you are experiencing, whether depression, anxiety, out of control emotions, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, a life transition, grief, or an issue uniquely yours. Counseling is a joint effort, which cannot be successful without your hard work, energy and courage. I invite you to contact me to work together toward your goals.
(509) 774-5637 View (509) 774-5637
Photo of Dana Oatis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Dana Oatis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! We all experience struggles in our life, and sometimes those struggles are overwhelming and difficult to navigate through. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space to help you steer through life's challenges. Together, we will walk the path of healing and self discovery as we explore and develop skills for change. I specialize in working with individuals, age 16 and older, who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and significant life changes, to help identify and work towards solutions and growth. I am also an EMDR trained therapist.
Welcome! We all experience struggles in our life, and sometimes those struggles are overwhelming and difficult to navigate through. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space to help you steer through life's challenges. Together, we will walk the path of healing and self discovery as we explore and develop skills for change. I specialize in working with individuals, age 16 and older, who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and significant life changes, to help identify and work towards solutions and growth. I am also an EMDR trained therapist.
(509) 253-1196 View (509) 253-1196
Photo of Rigoberto Garza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Rigoberto Garza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336  (Online Only)
When life stressors or traumas arise, it's easy to feel like everything is falling apart. As a mental health therapist, I aim to help my clients heal and navigate through these difficult times. Whether it's children, adults, or families, my approach is to help clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so that they can feel complete, whole, and safe.
When life stressors or traumas arise, it's easy to feel like everything is falling apart. As a mental health therapist, I aim to help my clients heal and navigate through these difficult times. Whether it's children, adults, or families, my approach is to help clients find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so that they can feel complete, whole, and safe.
(509) 512-2553 View (509) 512-2553
Photo of Milca Ruiz Manzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kennewick, WA
Milca Ruiz Manzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennewick, WA 99336
I help youth set goals together to tackle life challenges and mental health issues, promoting overall well-being.
I help youth set goals together to tackle life challenges and mental health issues, promoting overall well-being.
(509) 749-8647 View (509) 749-8647
Photo of Jeff Michaelis, Counselor in Kennewick, WA
Jeff Michaelis
Counselor, LMHCA, CPTT-C, CSAT-C, NCC, MBA
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
Are you struggling with unwanted sexual acting-out behaviors? Have been betrayed by a spouse or significant other? Do you have any traumatic experiences in your life that are holding you back? Are you tired of living a double life? I can help. As a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist - Candidate, Certified Partner Trauma Therapist - Candidate, and an ART-trained therapist, I know you have the tools and the ability to recover your life, you may need someone to walk along with you to help you find the way though. I would be honored to be your guide in recovery.
Are you struggling with unwanted sexual acting-out behaviors? Have been betrayed by a spouse or significant other? Do you have any traumatic experiences in your life that are holding you back? Are you tired of living a double life? I can help. As a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist - Candidate, Certified Partner Trauma Therapist - Candidate, and an ART-trained therapist, I know you have the tools and the ability to recover your life, you may need someone to walk along with you to help you find the way though. I would be honored to be your guide in recovery.
(509) 215-2386 View (509) 215-2386
Photo of Three Rivers Therapy, Counselor in Kennewick, WA
Three Rivers Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kennewick, WA 99336
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life worth celebrating. Studies show that successful treatment is dependent upon a strong therapeutic relationship. We are committed to providing a collaborative and supportive environment that aids in the development of this relationship. We work with couples and individuals of all ages, focusing on improving interpersonal relationships, increasing self awareness, and challenging negative thoughts and behaviors.
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life worth celebrating. Studies show that successful treatment is dependent upon a strong therapeutic relationship. We are committed to providing a collaborative and supportive environment that aids in the development of this relationship. We work with couples and individuals of all ages, focusing on improving interpersonal relationships, increasing self awareness, and challenging negative thoughts and behaviors.
(509) 740-3048 View (509) 740-3048

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kennewick, WA

100+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in Kennewick, WA who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
80% Relationship Issues
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
66% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Premera
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Regence

How Therapists in Kennewick, WA see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
20% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kennewick?

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.