Therapists in Washington, DC
Elise Brau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed and in need of some guidance? Does it feel like everything around you is changing and you don’t know where to begin? I believe we are all capable of healing and finding peace, we just might need a little help to get there. In my practice, I help clients navigate change by recognizing their emotions, inspiring insight, exploring their beliefs, and getting in touch with their bodies. Together, we explore the roots of your issues with the goal of reducing anxiety and depression, processing past traumas, understanding your relationships, and making meaning out of life transitions and loss.
Do you feel overwhelmed and in need of some guidance? Does it feel like everything around you is changing and you don’t know where to begin? I believe we are all capable of healing and finding peace, we just might need a little help to get there. In my practice, I help clients navigate change by recognizing their emotions, inspiring insight, exploring their beliefs, and getting in touch with their bodies. Together, we explore the roots of your issues with the goal of reducing anxiety and depression, processing past traumas, understanding your relationships, and making meaning out of life transitions and loss.
Matthew Siblo
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
My orientation toward counseling is a strengths based approach, where focusing on resiliency and building upon one's abilities are an essential part of managing conflict and confusion. I believe that the therapeutic process has the ability to empower us to gain insight and create new possibilities, allowing us to work through patterns of thinking and behavior to establish more productive coping mechanisms and strategies for when difficulties occur. Together, we will collaborate on constructing goals to help ease distress and gain clarity related to the challenges you are currently experiencing.
My orientation toward counseling is a strengths based approach, where focusing on resiliency and building upon one's abilities are an essential part of managing conflict and confusion. I believe that the therapeutic process has the ability to empower us to gain insight and create new possibilities, allowing us to work through patterns of thinking and behavior to establish more productive coping mechanisms and strategies for when difficulties occur. Together, we will collaborate on constructing goals to help ease distress and gain clarity related to the challenges you are currently experiencing.
Maria Athekame
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003 (Online Only)
My priority is to provide you with a safe place to bring your truth. Together we will work to create strategies and interventions to ease the challenges you face. I believe that you are the most important person in the room, and should feel heard, felt, and affirmed. For many people long term illness or sudden changes in physical abilities can leave you with a sudden shock of where to go from here? There is the physical work to grow and rebuild, but also the emotional component of grief. Reflecting on past abilities, friendships, romantic relationships, and the anxieties of what the future may hold as you learn a new everyday.
My priority is to provide you with a safe place to bring your truth. Together we will work to create strategies and interventions to ease the challenges you face. I believe that you are the most important person in the room, and should feel heard, felt, and affirmed. For many people long term illness or sudden changes in physical abilities can leave you with a sudden shock of where to go from here? There is the physical work to grow and rebuild, but also the emotional component of grief. Reflecting on past abilities, friendships, romantic relationships, and the anxieties of what the future may hold as you learn a new everyday.
Mengqi Li
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
No matter what has brought you to therapy, your experience is valid. I believe that even the most unlikeable, confusing, extreme parts of you have a wisdom to be understood, a protectiveness to be thanked, and a vulnerability to be seen and held. In my practice, I will seek to meet you exactly where you are, and together we can tend to the unique challenges in your life. My ultimate goal is for clients to uncover their essential self—to rediscover their own innate wisdom and strength that can face whatever life brings.
No matter what has brought you to therapy, your experience is valid. I believe that even the most unlikeable, confusing, extreme parts of you have a wisdom to be understood, a protectiveness to be thanked, and a vulnerability to be seen and held. In my practice, I will seek to meet you exactly where you are, and together we can tend to the unique challenges in your life. My ultimate goal is for clients to uncover their essential self—to rediscover their own innate wisdom and strength that can face whatever life brings.
Diana Gorbunova
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006 (Online Only)
Managing or eliminating sadness, relationship challenges, immigrant experiences, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, intrusive thoughts, work stress, family stressors, isolation, difficulty concentrating and little interest or pleasure in activities are reasons why clients come to me. We'll use solution-focused, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral to improve communication, regulate mood, implement new behaviors and decrease symptoms. We'll discuss the impact experiences have on you, identify emotions related to these experiences, identify mood regulation techniques and implement behavioral change.
Managing or eliminating sadness, relationship challenges, immigrant experiences, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, intrusive thoughts, work stress, family stressors, isolation, difficulty concentrating and little interest or pleasure in activities are reasons why clients come to me. We'll use solution-focused, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma informed care and cognitive behavioral to improve communication, regulate mood, implement new behaviors and decrease symptoms. We'll discuss the impact experiences have on you, identify emotions related to these experiences, identify mood regulation techniques and implement behavioral change.
Veronica Dos Santos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Do you feel stuck in self-defeating patterns and self-sabotage that leave you feeling not good enough? Are you going through a transition that's made you lose sense of who you are and what brings you joy? Are you always worrying about something? I help young adults like you to uncover belief systems that have been keeping you stuck and empower you to move closer towards the life you really want. Want to know more? Schedule your intro call by email, call, or text!
Do you feel stuck in self-defeating patterns and self-sabotage that leave you feeling not good enough? Are you going through a transition that's made you lose sense of who you are and what brings you joy? Are you always worrying about something? I help young adults like you to uncover belief systems that have been keeping you stuck and empower you to move closer towards the life you really want. Want to know more? Schedule your intro call by email, call, or text!
Dana Goldenberg
Counselor, LPC, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
I have immediate telehealth availability to begin working with new clients. I am a psychotherapist licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia with over 8 years of experience. I enjoy working with adults and young adults from diverse backgrounds who may be experiencing challenges related to: anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, fertility, work-life balance, life transitions, and issues stemming from low self-worth. I believe that the right therapeutic relationship can guide and empower clients towards healing and strengthening resilience.
I have immediate telehealth availability to begin working with new clients. I am a psychotherapist licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia with over 8 years of experience. I enjoy working with adults and young adults from diverse backgrounds who may be experiencing challenges related to: anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, fertility, work-life balance, life transitions, and issues stemming from low self-worth. I believe that the right therapeutic relationship can guide and empower clients towards healing and strengthening resilience.
Samira Pizarro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001 (Online Only)
Samira Pizaro is a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to motivating change, creating healthier habits, and building a safe space for clients. You can trust Samira will be purpose-driven and practical around your care needs and treatment planning. Her approach toward accessible, well-rounded mental health care includes challenging negative thinking with insightful questioning and value-oriented goal setting so you can maintain the healthiest version of yourself. With Samira, you will explore what your values are and find ways to use those values to stay committed to your goals.
Samira Pizaro is a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to motivating change, creating healthier habits, and building a safe space for clients. You can trust Samira will be purpose-driven and practical around your care needs and treatment planning. Her approach toward accessible, well-rounded mental health care includes challenging negative thinking with insightful questioning and value-oriented goal setting so you can maintain the healthiest version of yourself. With Samira, you will explore what your values are and find ways to use those values to stay committed to your goals.
Rhetya Kelly Thompson
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
I specialize in therapy for children and teens facing behavioral and emotional challenges, as well as supporting their parents. If your child's intense emotions or behaviors are overwhelming, or if your teen is struggling with defiance, social challenges, or managing their feelings, know that you're not alone. My balanced approach focuses on helping your child or teen express and regulate their emotions positively, while equally empowering you as a parent with effective strategies for guidance and support. Together, we'll work towards building stronger family dynamics and individual emotional resilience.
I specialize in therapy for children and teens facing behavioral and emotional challenges, as well as supporting their parents. If your child's intense emotions or behaviors are overwhelming, or if your teen is struggling with defiance, social challenges, or managing their feelings, know that you're not alone. My balanced approach focuses on helping your child or teen express and regulate their emotions positively, while equally empowering you as a parent with effective strategies for guidance and support. Together, we'll work towards building stronger family dynamics and individual emotional resilience.
Jinny Park
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001 (Online Only)
What does it actually mean to be human? I like to think of myself as an introspective and critical thinker. By no means am I smarter than anyone else in the room, and I never want to have a dialogue that turns into a debate. So how does this question get answered? One way that I have come to appreciate the conversation is to listen to people's thoughts and processes of how they are trying to get to the answer.
What does it actually mean to be human? I like to think of myself as an introspective and critical thinker. By no means am I smarter than anyone else in the room, and I never want to have a dialogue that turns into a debate. So how does this question get answered? One way that I have come to appreciate the conversation is to listen to people's thoughts and processes of how they are trying to get to the answer.
Melissa Sellevaag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
I believe in the capacity of individuals and communities to heal and grow. Through the development of a trusted and collaborative relationship we can identify a path through challenging times and forward. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating change and life transition, either expected or unexpected. I have the capacity to witness and support as you uncover your tools to live fully in the present. As the expert in your own life, you are a collaborative partner in the therapy process to enable continued growth after therapy ends.
I believe in the capacity of individuals and communities to heal and grow. Through the development of a trusted and collaborative relationship we can identify a path through challenging times and forward. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating change and life transition, either expected or unexpected. I have the capacity to witness and support as you uncover your tools to live fully in the present. As the expert in your own life, you are a collaborative partner in the therapy process to enable continued growth after therapy ends.
15 Second Videos
Samira Pizarro
Hemi Hunt
Elana Hoffman
Melissa L. Kilbride & Associates, PLLC
RS Davis Health & Wellness, LLC
Jenn Hudak
Amber Thornton
Marissa Nelson
Kelsey Bates
Lewis Smith
Stacey Mayo
Robyn Osborn Pashby
Daniel J Paulus
Margaux T Delotte-Bennett
Allie L Swanson
Scott Conkright
Ince Counseling
Roshelle M. Wilder
Sara Sheikh
Jesse Wingate
Jenna Budreau
Evan Tokarz
Peak Couples and Sex Therapy
Indira Mohabeer
Molly Milgrom
Jennifer L Pauk
Sid Binks
The Online Insomnia Center with Dr. Rosenblum
Greenhouse Psychotherapy
Paris Cook
Mia Newell
Sarah Pogue
Madelaine Claire Weiss
Cara N. Burton
Debra Turkat
Frog Point Therapy
Tim Martin
Alloy Wellness
Simone Harris
Sonja Harrison
Jason Wang
Nicholas Kirsch
Sabrina Taylor
Tanisha T. Richardson
Justin Collmann
Alexis Moreno
Helena (Mimi) Martin
Jalessa Townsend
Cristina S Emrich
Goli Bellinger
Jack Werstein, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I am licensed to practice in Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia and Texas. My mission is to provide ethical and professional clinical services to those overcoming trauma and those struggling with identity and relationship issues. My commitment to my patients is to empower, support, and guide them on a journey of healing and growth. I employ an integrative treatment approach in order to effectively meet my client’s needs. I work with clients in person and/or using Zoom.
I am licensed to practice in Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia and Texas. My mission is to provide ethical and professional clinical services to those overcoming trauma and those struggling with identity and relationship issues. My commitment to my patients is to empower, support, and guide them on a journey of healing and growth. I employ an integrative treatment approach in order to effectively meet my client’s needs. I work with clients in person and/or using Zoom.
Douglas Rugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
Do you: Feel stuck and unable to move forward? Want to perform better under pressure? Feel overwhelmed and anxious? I help people manage the tension between what one has already achieved and what one still ought to accomplish. Together we explore questions about why powerful feelings and thoughts emerge, and how these emotions can be expressed and attended to in the most beneficial way.
Do you: Feel stuck and unable to move forward? Want to perform better under pressure? Feel overwhelmed and anxious? I help people manage the tension between what one has already achieved and what one still ought to accomplish. Together we explore questions about why powerful feelings and thoughts emerge, and how these emotions can be expressed and attended to in the most beneficial way.
Emily M. Bauman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Do you have trouble sleeping? Have you been through a traumatic experience or painful loss? Are you struggling to cope with stressful relationships? Then contact me today to move one step closer to feeling better tomorrow. I provide individual psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, adjustment concerns, perinatal/postpartum issues, and I specialize in treating PTSD and associated conditions. It takes courage to look inward, make changes, and begin to heal. Together we'll develop a personalized treatment plan to help you feel better and reach your goals.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Do you have trouble sleeping? Have you been through a traumatic experience or painful loss? Are you struggling to cope with stressful relationships? Then contact me today to move one step closer to feeling better tomorrow. I provide individual psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, adjustment concerns, perinatal/postpartum issues, and I specialize in treating PTSD and associated conditions. It takes courage to look inward, make changes, and begin to heal. Together we'll develop a personalized treatment plan to help you feel better and reach your goals.
Grace A Whitman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Not accepting new clients
I can be most helpful to you if you are interested in growing yourself and your own potential for intimacy and sexuality. Instead of identifying what's "wrong" with you, I focus on your strengths. By balancing your desire for autonomy and your desire for connection, you can increase your capacity for desire and eroticism in intimate sexuality. As an active therapist, I'm willing to challenge you and your partner to develop and grow yourself up.
I can be most helpful to you if you are interested in growing yourself and your own potential for intimacy and sexuality. Instead of identifying what's "wrong" with you, I focus on your strengths. By balancing your desire for autonomy and your desire for connection, you can increase your capacity for desire and eroticism in intimate sexuality. As an active therapist, I'm willing to challenge you and your partner to develop and grow yourself up.
Samantha Slater
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005 (Online Only)
I have been working in community mental health and private practice since 2015. Clients who have found working with me helpful include trauma survivors, those suffering from symptoms related to mood and anxiety disorders, and those dealing with stress in romantic and family relationships. My therapy style has been influenced by my experience and training in mindfulness, emotion-focused, and acceptance-based models. I believe that for change and healing to occur, we have to get comfortable in the uncomfortable by accessing our true feelings and emotions.
I have been working in community mental health and private practice since 2015. Clients who have found working with me helpful include trauma survivors, those suffering from symptoms related to mood and anxiety disorders, and those dealing with stress in romantic and family relationships. My therapy style has been influenced by my experience and training in mindfulness, emotion-focused, and acceptance-based models. I believe that for change and healing to occur, we have to get comfortable in the uncomfortable by accessing our true feelings and emotions.
Francisca Faundez Rojas
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Have you ever experienced a scary situation that turned your world upside down? Do you ever feel as if you’re reliving the event all of the sudden? Or perhaps you find yourself feeling intense fear, anxiety, shame, sadness, or disconnected from yourself, or maybe you are just numb to all feelings. Trauma can come in many different forms. It can result from experiencing abuse as a child, racism or homophobia, witnessing violence at home or in your community, or other situations where you felt powerless and afraid. Many people who have experienced trauma are left to deal with the difficult emotions that seem to come out of nowhere.
Have you ever experienced a scary situation that turned your world upside down? Do you ever feel as if you’re reliving the event all of the sudden? Or perhaps you find yourself feeling intense fear, anxiety, shame, sadness, or disconnected from yourself, or maybe you are just numb to all feelings. Trauma can come in many different forms. It can result from experiencing abuse as a child, racism or homophobia, witnessing violence at home or in your community, or other situations where you felt powerless and afraid. Many people who have experienced trauma are left to deal with the difficult emotions that seem to come out of nowhere.
Ina von Ber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
LIFE & EXEC Coaching- Expats, Gov., Mil., Diplomatic Community, Welcome, Willkommen, Bienvenue! We work together to set & accomplish your goals! Clients successfully decreased stress & anxiety, achieve work-life balance, enhance communication & interpersonal skills, improve time management & productivity, sharpen decision-making skills, improve relationships with colleagues, friends, and family, gain clarity & focus on personal & professional goals, improve leadership and management skills, unleash creativity & innovation.
LIFE & EXEC Coaching- Expats, Gov., Mil., Diplomatic Community, Welcome, Willkommen, Bienvenue! We work together to set & accomplish your goals! Clients successfully decreased stress & anxiety, achieve work-life balance, enhance communication & interpersonal skills, improve time management & productivity, sharpen decision-making skills, improve relationships with colleagues, friends, and family, gain clarity & focus on personal & professional goals, improve leadership and management skills, unleash creativity & innovation.
Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
As a licensed graduate social worker with a rich background in serving diverse populations, my ideal clients encompass a wide spectrum of individuals facing various mental health challenges. Whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or grappling with relationship difficulties, I understand the complexities each person brings to the therapeutic space. My ideal clients seek support not just for themselves but also to navigate life transitions, understand LGBTQ+ concerns, or cope with autism. They are individuals who recognize the value of seeking help and are motivated to work towards positive change in their lives.
As a licensed graduate social worker with a rich background in serving diverse populations, my ideal clients encompass a wide spectrum of individuals facing various mental health challenges. Whether it's battling anxiety, depression, or grappling with relationship difficulties, I understand the complexities each person brings to the therapeutic space. My ideal clients seek support not just for themselves but also to navigate life transitions, understand LGBTQ+ concerns, or cope with autism. They are individuals who recognize the value of seeking help and are motivated to work towards positive change in their lives.
Andrea Yudell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
There are times that you might feel stuck in patterns that make life feel unsatisfying and empty. Maybe you feel depressed, anxious or in chronic pain. You may be negotiating a relationship or trying to adjust to a new job. Psychotherapy allows you the space to understand how your past and present intersect and what gets in the way of living life to your fullest while also helping you to tap into your inner resources. My approach is collaborative, thus giving you the space to reflect carefully. I work with you to develop better coping skills and help you to understand & manage complex feelings of anxiety or sadness.
There are times that you might feel stuck in patterns that make life feel unsatisfying and empty. Maybe you feel depressed, anxious or in chronic pain. You may be negotiating a relationship or trying to adjust to a new job. Psychotherapy allows you the space to understand how your past and present intersect and what gets in the way of living life to your fullest while also helping you to tap into your inner resources. My approach is collaborative, thus giving you the space to reflect carefully. I work with you to develop better coping skills and help you to understand & manage complex feelings of anxiety or sadness.
See more therapy options for Washington
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Washington, DC
2,000+
Average cost per session
$180
Therapists in Washington, DC who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
81% | Relationship Issues |
77% | Self Esteem |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Stress |
65% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
63% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
57% | CareFirst |
53% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Washington, DC see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Washington?
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
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.
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.
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.