Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of Elizabeth Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Elizabeth Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, ART-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I understand how hard it is to be a human and how our histories, relationships, and structural oppression impact our health and wellness. I am a firm believer that we grow throughout the lifespan and that it is never too late for change and recovery. I am particularly interested in working with folks struggling with identity (LGBTQIA+, white guilt, and major life changes which impact how we think about ourselves), depression and anxiety, trauma, and people who are embarking on the parenting journey.
Accepting new clients! I understand how hard it is to be a human and how our histories, relationships, and structural oppression impact our health and wellness. I am a firm believer that we grow throughout the lifespan and that it is never too late for change and recovery. I am particularly interested in working with folks struggling with identity (LGBTQIA+, white guilt, and major life changes which impact how we think about ourselves), depression and anxiety, trauma, and people who are embarking on the parenting journey.
(503) 714-9747 View (503) 714-9747
Photo of Karen M Corona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Karen M Corona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225
Feeling trapped in an inner prison of emotional pain and a hostage to your past? Stuck in self-sabotaging patterns? Burdened by negative beliefs about yourself? Heal trauma and restore emotional well-being. The legacy of trauma is often difficult symptoms showing up as anxiety or depression and experiences of being ‘triggered’ in reaction to interpersonal situations. There is hope and a pathway that leads to healing. Through trauma resolution therapy with me you may restore emotional-well-being, develop an inner freedom, and awaken to a newfound wholeness you never thought possible.
Feeling trapped in an inner prison of emotional pain and a hostage to your past? Stuck in self-sabotaging patterns? Burdened by negative beliefs about yourself? Heal trauma and restore emotional well-being. The legacy of trauma is often difficult symptoms showing up as anxiety or depression and experiences of being ‘triggered’ in reaction to interpersonal situations. There is hope and a pathway that leads to healing. Through trauma resolution therapy with me you may restore emotional-well-being, develop an inner freedom, and awaken to a newfound wholeness you never thought possible.
(503) 461-7860 View (503) 461-7860
Photo of Shannon Quinn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Shannon Quinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Whether you would like to improve your relationships with partners, friends, or family, explore feelings of grief in your own way without pressure to "get back to normal already," or find that sense of self and purpose that you might be missing, I provide a safe and confidential environment to process thoughts and feelings and gain insight, feedback and understanding.
Whether you would like to improve your relationships with partners, friends, or family, explore feelings of grief in your own way without pressure to "get back to normal already," or find that sense of self and purpose that you might be missing, I provide a safe and confidential environment to process thoughts and feelings and gain insight, feedback and understanding.
(503) 766-3982 View (503) 766-3982
Photo of Saren E Craig, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Saren E Craig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I value advocacy surrounding social justice issues and center of experiences of oppression, especially regarding LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities when discussing mental health. I love the empowering work I do with my clients.
I value advocacy surrounding social justice issues and center of experiences of oppression, especially regarding LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities when discussing mental health. I love the empowering work I do with my clients.
(971) 306-5456 View (971) 306-5456
Photo of Catherine Chapman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Catherine Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
Waitlist for new clients
I entered the mental health field based on my own life-changing experience when I went through therapy to address the impact of childhood traumas.  With the help of my counselors my life transformed from hopeless and stuck to empowered and whole.  I had no idea this kind of transformation was even possible.  Now, it is my turn to give back and walk alongside those who choose the difficult path of recovery.  I won't have your answers since your story and personality are unique.  What I do have is familiarity with the path, faith in your ability to find your answers, and professional experience guiding individuals toward wholeness.
I entered the mental health field based on my own life-changing experience when I went through therapy to address the impact of childhood traumas.  With the help of my counselors my life transformed from hopeless and stuck to empowered and whole.  I had no idea this kind of transformation was even possible.  Now, it is my turn to give back and walk alongside those who choose the difficult path of recovery.  I won't have your answers since your story and personality are unique.  What I do have is familiarity with the path, faith in your ability to find your answers, and professional experience guiding individuals toward wholeness.
(971) 247-9974 View (971) 247-9974
Photo of Kathryn Ann Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kathryn Ann Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I appreciate working with individuals and couples who identify as unconventional in some way, who are creative, introverted or highly sensitive, and want to be more assertive, confident and self-compassionate. I support LBGTQ-identified folks navigate issues of gender identity, sexual orientation, sexuality, relationships, trauma and oppression. As a holistically-oriented therapist with years of experience working within the naturopathic medical community, I also value helping individuals emotionally and mentally challenged by chronic or life-threatening illnesses.
I appreciate working with individuals and couples who identify as unconventional in some way, who are creative, introverted or highly sensitive, and want to be more assertive, confident and self-compassionate. I support LBGTQ-identified folks navigate issues of gender identity, sexual orientation, sexuality, relationships, trauma and oppression. As a holistically-oriented therapist with years of experience working within the naturopathic medical community, I also value helping individuals emotionally and mentally challenged by chronic or life-threatening illnesses.
(503) 676-5121 View (503) 676-5121
Photo of Bridget Saladino, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Bridget Saladino
Professional Counselor Associate, MDiv, LPCA, NHA AT, KAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
I provide a therapeutic bridge to healing, improved relationships, and how you want to be. We all experience some amount of trauma, grief, and loss, struggle with transitions, and frustration in our most important relationships. Healing and transformation are possible. You deserve to be heard and seen. I work with all age groups, genders, orientations, ethnicities, and belief systems with an affirming, non-judgmental approach. Are you ready for a breakthrough? I have the tools to help you break through quickly. Just need encouragement? We'll move at your pace on whatever you are ready to face with the tools to keep you safe.
I provide a therapeutic bridge to healing, improved relationships, and how you want to be. We all experience some amount of trauma, grief, and loss, struggle with transitions, and frustration in our most important relationships. Healing and transformation are possible. You deserve to be heard and seen. I work with all age groups, genders, orientations, ethnicities, and belief systems with an affirming, non-judgmental approach. Are you ready for a breakthrough? I have the tools to help you break through quickly. Just need encouragement? We'll move at your pace on whatever you are ready to face with the tools to keep you safe.
(503) 852-5662 View (503) 852-5662
Photo of Adam Elwood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Adam Elwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Welcome! My approach to counseling is collaborative, compassionate, patient, and kind. I will focus on understanding you where you are at without judgement, so that you can have greater acceptance of yourself and your experience, and be able to be vulnerable and honest with someone who cares as you navigate the challenges you face. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating relationship challenges or conflict, have communication difficulties, or are wanting to work on understanding their attachment style(s) and the impact of family of origin dynamics.
Welcome! My approach to counseling is collaborative, compassionate, patient, and kind. I will focus on understanding you where you are at without judgement, so that you can have greater acceptance of yourself and your experience, and be able to be vulnerable and honest with someone who cares as you navigate the challenges you face. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating relationship challenges or conflict, have communication difficulties, or are wanting to work on understanding their attachment style(s) and the impact of family of origin dynamics.
(503) 743-6735 View (503) 743-6735
Photo of Cameron MacKinney, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Cameron MacKinney
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Currently Accepting New Clients! We all face challenges and stressors in our lives; it’s part of being human! However, you don’t need to go through them alone. I’d be honored to help you along your personal journey of discovery and self-betterment. Let’s work together to achieve the life you deserve. I believe therapy is a collaborative process. You’re the expert on your life! I’m here to follow your lead and help build upon the inherent strengths and capabilities you already possess while providing guidance and insight along the way.
Currently Accepting New Clients! We all face challenges and stressors in our lives; it’s part of being human! However, you don’t need to go through them alone. I’d be honored to help you along your personal journey of discovery and self-betterment. Let’s work together to achieve the life you deserve. I believe therapy is a collaborative process. You’re the expert on your life! I’m here to follow your lead and help build upon the inherent strengths and capabilities you already possess while providing guidance and insight along the way.
(971) 252-7505 View (971) 252-7505
Photo of Cat (Adhd) Findley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Cat (Adhd) Findley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
If white knuckling, self shaming, pulling yourself up by your bootstraps and putting on your big girl panties worked, you’d be “cured” a billion times over. It doesn’t. At least not for me or people whose brains are different. Our minds race and it feels impossible to turn off and rest. Sometimes we use substances or other behaviors in a harmful way just to get through the day. There’s more to life out there. A more peaceful and meaningful life is possible. We need to go deeper and get to the root of things. I’ll go with you.
If white knuckling, self shaming, pulling yourself up by your bootstraps and putting on your big girl panties worked, you’d be “cured” a billion times over. It doesn’t. At least not for me or people whose brains are different. Our minds race and it feels impossible to turn off and rest. Sometimes we use substances or other behaviors in a harmful way just to get through the day. There’s more to life out there. A more peaceful and meaningful life is possible. We need to go deeper and get to the root of things. I’ll go with you.
(541) 827-3325 View (541) 827-3325
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Sauber, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Elizabeth Sauber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I see therapy as a place for people to be accepted, understood, and gently challenged to take action on what they value most. I use a collaborative, strengths-based approach to help folks connect with the resilience and knowledge that has already been working for them, as well as to target areas where they’ve been struggling. While I was trained as a generalist, I further specialized in supporting those with histories of grief and loss, identity related stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I particularly enjoy working with emerging adults (18-29 year olds), queer folks, and veterans.
I see therapy as a place for people to be accepted, understood, and gently challenged to take action on what they value most. I use a collaborative, strengths-based approach to help folks connect with the resilience and knowledge that has already been working for them, as well as to target areas where they’ve been struggling. While I was trained as a generalist, I further specialized in supporting those with histories of grief and loss, identity related stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I particularly enjoy working with emerging adults (18-29 year olds), queer folks, and veterans.
(503) 713-6753 View (503) 713-6753
Photo of Cary Lazara Coll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Cary Lazara Coll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
(971) 351-0347 View (971) 351-0347
Photo of Celine Elise Redfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Celine Elise Redfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR, EFT, MP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
My pronouns are they/them/theirs. I am currently only accepting clients for my anxiety group. I will collaborate with you by assisting you in identifying patterns that are no longer serving you. I will encourage you to be kind, loving, and compassionate towards yourself. Working from an empathic-based perspective, I will teach you to nurture yourself by using the tools of creative arts therapy, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, visualization, acupressure, and EFT tapping to help find your innate strengths.
My pronouns are they/them/theirs. I am currently only accepting clients for my anxiety group. I will collaborate with you by assisting you in identifying patterns that are no longer serving you. I will encourage you to be kind, loving, and compassionate towards yourself. Working from an empathic-based perspective, I will teach you to nurture yourself by using the tools of creative arts therapy, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, visualization, acupressure, and EFT tapping to help find your innate strengths.
(503) 837-3478 View (503) 837-3478
Photo of Heather Pierce, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Heather Pierce
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have worked in the field for 10+ years with all ages. My specialities are working with eating disorders/disordered eating, body image challenges and perinatal mental health.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have worked in the field for 10+ years with all ages. My specialities are working with eating disorders/disordered eating, body image challenges and perinatal mental health.
(541) 833-9060 View (541) 833-9060
Photo of Uribe Music Therapy, LLC, Music Therapist in Portland, OR
Uribe Music Therapy, LLC
Music Therapist, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
My name is Natalia Uribe (They/Them), I am a Latine Music Therapist, born and raised in Colombia. My ethical duty as a mental health professional is to reach out to underserved communities and break the barriers of access down, by offering high quality mental health services at an affordable price. It is also my duty as a professional to educate myself on systemic issues that affect my current and future clients, in order to truly be of service to them. My practice is based on a combination of humanistic and feminist approaches, through an anti-racist lens.
My name is Natalia Uribe (They/Them), I am a Latine Music Therapist, born and raised in Colombia. My ethical duty as a mental health professional is to reach out to underserved communities and break the barriers of access down, by offering high quality mental health services at an affordable price. It is also my duty as a professional to educate myself on systemic issues that affect my current and future clients, in order to truly be of service to them. My practice is based on a combination of humanistic and feminist approaches, through an anti-racist lens.
(503) 832-6386 View (503) 832-6386
Photo of Justine Lockhart, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Justine Lockhart
Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Are you navigating anxiety and stressful situations such as interpersonal conflict, social anxiety, school anxiety, and work stress? Do you long to engage in self-discovery in terms of identity (sexuality, gender, who you are in relation to others, life dreams, etc.)? Are you experiencing life transitions such as leaving for college, a breakup, a new career, or moving? Do you live with OCD? Do you want to create a more meaningful life in alignment with your values?
Are you navigating anxiety and stressful situations such as interpersonal conflict, social anxiety, school anxiety, and work stress? Do you long to engage in self-discovery in terms of identity (sexuality, gender, who you are in relation to others, life dreams, etc.)? Are you experiencing life transitions such as leaving for college, a breakup, a new career, or moving? Do you live with OCD? Do you want to create a more meaningful life in alignment with your values?
(971) 257-8275 View (971) 257-8275
Photo of Jeffrey A. Kiilsgaard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Jeffrey A. Kiilsgaard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is tailored to adults who are currently experiencing depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, interpersonal deficits, and other issues regarding the self. I am a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and work well with the individualistic and affirmative fashions in which human beings choose to self-identify. As a licensed clinical social worker, I believe that the individual is part of system: the micro (familial), the mezzo (immediate community), and the macro (the world at large). I look forward to speaking with you.
My therapeutic approach is tailored to adults who are currently experiencing depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, interpersonal deficits, and other issues regarding the self. I am a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and work well with the individualistic and affirmative fashions in which human beings choose to self-identify. As a licensed clinical social worker, I believe that the individual is part of system: the micro (familial), the mezzo (immediate community), and the macro (the world at large). I look forward to speaking with you.
(503) 386-9751 View (503) 386-9751
Photo of Shelby Lanier, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Shelby Lanier
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I strive to provide a safety net in therapy, free from judgment and shame, so that my clients feel safe to explore their relational and erotic desires, practice articulating their needs and boundaries in relationships, and touch on any shadowy parts that need attention and grace. As well as being able to provide general individual and couples support in therapy, I have specialized education and training in working with sexual concerns related to sexual dysfunctions, painful sex, shame or anxiety around sex, and improvement in pleasure. I bring a calm, knowledgeable, and sex positive presence to our exploration of sexual intimacy.
I strive to provide a safety net in therapy, free from judgment and shame, so that my clients feel safe to explore their relational and erotic desires, practice articulating their needs and boundaries in relationships, and touch on any shadowy parts that need attention and grace. As well as being able to provide general individual and couples support in therapy, I have specialized education and training in working with sexual concerns related to sexual dysfunctions, painful sex, shame or anxiety around sex, and improvement in pleasure. I bring a calm, knowledgeable, and sex positive presence to our exploration of sexual intimacy.
(503) 447-4698 x1 View (503) 447-4698 x1
Photo of Emily Ott, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Emily Ott
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I often work with clients who are seeking recovery from traumatic experiences and other stressful life events. I specialize in working with clients who have symptoms of PTSD, anxiety disorders, OCD, and adjustment disorders due to life stressors/transitions. I am interested in working with clients who are willing to explore how their experiences inform and impact their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My hope is that we will be able to identify and possibly shift patterns that are no longer serving you, so that you can live in alignment with your unique values and goals moving forward.
I often work with clients who are seeking recovery from traumatic experiences and other stressful life events. I specialize in working with clients who have symptoms of PTSD, anxiety disorders, OCD, and adjustment disorders due to life stressors/transitions. I am interested in working with clients who are willing to explore how their experiences inform and impact their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My hope is that we will be able to identify and possibly shift patterns that are no longer serving you, so that you can live in alignment with your unique values and goals moving forward.
(503) 213-9174 View (503) 213-9174
Photo of Deborah Orandon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Deborah Orandon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Not accepting new clients
Life is CHALLENGING--especially for Highly Sensitive People (HSP) in over-stimulating environments! I work with HSPs, Creatives & the Gifted to uncover the root-causes of distress and reconnect with inner resources for healing and creating change. Often our most persistent struggles are caused by parts of ourselves that we are not fully aware of. I help you safely access the wisdom of even wounded, scared, immobilized or angry parts. By compassionately listening, you discover your richest experiences & hopes, greatest passions & gifts. THEN walking away from habits that don't work, and into the life you want, becomes possible.
Life is CHALLENGING--especially for Highly Sensitive People (HSP) in over-stimulating environments! I work with HSPs, Creatives & the Gifted to uncover the root-causes of distress and reconnect with inner resources for healing and creating change. Often our most persistent struggles are caused by parts of ourselves that we are not fully aware of. I help you safely access the wisdom of even wounded, scared, immobilized or angry parts. By compassionately listening, you discover your richest experiences & hopes, greatest passions & gifts. THEN walking away from habits that don't work, and into the life you want, becomes possible.
(503) 542-9603 View (503) 542-9603

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.