Therapists in Peoria, IL

Photo of Julie Cummings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Julie Cummings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Although it may seem unattainable right now, hope, restoration and even joy are possible after trauma and loss. My aim is to provide a safe place of compassionate care to assist you towards personal healing, growth, and resilience. My experience includes inpatient, outpatient, residential, health and mental health care across the lifespan. Additionally, I have provided curriculum development, consultation, and instruction to resident physicians and mental health clinicians in training. I help those who have experienced interpersonal trauma move towards healing and wholeness.
Although it may seem unattainable right now, hope, restoration and even joy are possible after trauma and loss. My aim is to provide a safe place of compassionate care to assist you towards personal healing, growth, and resilience. My experience includes inpatient, outpatient, residential, health and mental health care across the lifespan. Additionally, I have provided curriculum development, consultation, and instruction to resident physicians and mental health clinicians in training. I help those who have experienced interpersonal trauma move towards healing and wholeness.
(309) 249-0450 View (309) 249-0450
Photo of Megan Stickelmaier Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Megan Stickelmaier Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Children and adolescents are under more pressure now than ever before from social stress, transitions and divorce, bullying and past trauma. I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I believe that there are no bad kids or bad parents. It is through my family centered, solution focused approach that I encourage my clients and their parents to begin to celebrate their unique abilities. I also focus on the whole person, exploring academics, career, diet and nutrition, medical, social support any and all elements that impact my clients.
Children and adolescents are under more pressure now than ever before from social stress, transitions and divorce, bullying and past trauma. I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I believe that there are no bad kids or bad parents. It is through my family centered, solution focused approach that I encourage my clients and their parents to begin to celebrate their unique abilities. I also focus on the whole person, exploring academics, career, diet and nutrition, medical, social support any and all elements that impact my clients.
(309) 271-1034 View (309) 271-1034
Photo of Michelle Krieger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Michelle Krieger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Body-image concerns, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties impact our ability to grasp the life we long for. Simple pleasures such as enjoying time with friends, celebrating a special moment with a family member, going out for dinner, hanging out with peers, or feeling connected to our partner can be a daunting or impossible prospect. Stepping into therapy can feel just as daunting, but it can be the beginning of grasping the life you deserve. I have worked with adolescents, teens, adults, and couples to heal trauma, improve relationships with food and body image, and strengthen relationships.
Body-image concerns, eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties impact our ability to grasp the life we long for. Simple pleasures such as enjoying time with friends, celebrating a special moment with a family member, going out for dinner, hanging out with peers, or feeling connected to our partner can be a daunting or impossible prospect. Stepping into therapy can feel just as daunting, but it can be the beginning of grasping the life you deserve. I have worked with adolescents, teens, adults, and couples to heal trauma, improve relationships with food and body image, and strengthen relationships.
(309) 760-6835 View (309) 760-6835
Photo of Melissa McAuley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Peoria, IL
Melissa McAuley
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Are you tired of trying to hold it all together? Have you turned to alcohol or drugs to cope? Are friends and family increasingly concerned? Are you fighting more with your partner or loved ones? Are you blowing up in anger or simply avoiding conflict? Are consequences piling up in relationships, at home, work, or school? Do you have trouble recognizing the face in the mirror? Are you watching as this becomes the reality for a loved one? I am profoundly aware of the toll alcohol and drugs can take on individuals and families from my 6 years experience in addiction treatment.
Are you tired of trying to hold it all together? Have you turned to alcohol or drugs to cope? Are friends and family increasingly concerned? Are you fighting more with your partner or loved ones? Are you blowing up in anger or simply avoiding conflict? Are consequences piling up in relationships, at home, work, or school? Do you have trouble recognizing the face in the mirror? Are you watching as this becomes the reality for a loved one? I am profoundly aware of the toll alcohol and drugs can take on individuals and families from my 6 years experience in addiction treatment.
(309) 388-3115 View (309) 388-3115
Photo of Kerry Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Kerry Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Immediate appointments available! Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you trying to overcome adversity or traumatic experiences? You have just taken the first step in the process of reaching your full potential. Not sure where to go from here? That's okay. I'm here to help. I am committed to walking with you in that journey by building a safe, nonjudgmental environment and helping you to find the answers within you.
Immediate appointments available! Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you trying to overcome adversity or traumatic experiences? You have just taken the first step in the process of reaching your full potential. Not sure where to go from here? That's okay. I'm here to help. I am committed to walking with you in that journey by building a safe, nonjudgmental environment and helping you to find the answers within you.
(309) 790-3582 View (309) 790-3582
Photo of Trinity Maston, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Trinity Maston
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I seek to empower clients to become the best versions of themselves by supporting them in overcoming obstacles and accomplishing their goals.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I seek to empower clients to become the best versions of themselves by supporting them in overcoming obstacles and accomplishing their goals.
(309) 233-2246 View (309) 233-2246
Photo of Andrea Desatnick, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Andrea Desatnick
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
No one is meant to go through this life alone, although it may feel this way. If you have been struggling lately with situations, events, or mental health symptoms, you are in the right place. You’ve taken the first step in looking for a counselor, and many times that can be the hardest step. My passion is supporting my clients through person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapies and empowering my clients with the necessary tools they need to succeed. I incorporate client interests, such as reading, music, sports, art, and writing, into our sessions to best support clients as they are working through the therapeutic process.
No one is meant to go through this life alone, although it may feel this way. If you have been struggling lately with situations, events, or mental health symptoms, you are in the right place. You’ve taken the first step in looking for a counselor, and many times that can be the hardest step. My passion is supporting my clients through person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapies and empowering my clients with the necessary tools they need to succeed. I incorporate client interests, such as reading, music, sports, art, and writing, into our sessions to best support clients as they are working through the therapeutic process.
(309) 271-0153 View (309) 271-0153
Photo of Jenny Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Jenny Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615  (Online Only)
Whether you want support overcoming drug use, alcohol use, eating habits, smoking, or gambling, I'm here for you, alongside you. My specialty is helping with behavior change. That might include: Cutting back or quitting alcohol or other drugs Cutting back or quitting smoking (or vaping, chewing, etc) Eating mindfully (reducing binge eating) Cutting back or quitting gambling Managing shopping behaviors Cutting back or quitting gaming.
Whether you want support overcoming drug use, alcohol use, eating habits, smoking, or gambling, I'm here for you, alongside you. My specialty is helping with behavior change. That might include: Cutting back or quitting alcohol or other drugs Cutting back or quitting smoking (or vaping, chewing, etc) Eating mindfully (reducing binge eating) Cutting back or quitting gambling Managing shopping behaviors Cutting back or quitting gaming.
(309) 741-2642 View (309) 741-2642
Photo of Patricia Aguado, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Patricia Aguado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
I am a bilingual (Spanish speaking) and bicultural clinician with over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and adults in hospital-based clinic settings and mental health community agency settings. My areas of treatment include but are not limited to; trauma, intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, identity formation and conflict, Latino/a/x concerns, multicultural issues, first-generation acculturation conflict, and physical health-related issues and adjustment.
I am a bilingual (Spanish speaking) and bicultural clinician with over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and adults in hospital-based clinic settings and mental health community agency settings. My areas of treatment include but are not limited to; trauma, intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, identity formation and conflict, Latino/a/x concerns, multicultural issues, first-generation acculturation conflict, and physical health-related issues and adjustment.
(309) 326-5264 View (309) 326-5264
Photo of Phil Schertz, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Phil Schertz
Counselor, MA, NBCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61603
Life does not always go how we think it should. It's often helpful to have the viewpoint of someone who is outside of our situation. I've got experience working with people who have been through traumatic events, both physical and emotional.
Life does not always go how we think it should. It's often helpful to have the viewpoint of someone who is outside of our situation. I've got experience working with people who have been through traumatic events, both physical and emotional.
(309) 791-4203 View (309) 791-4203
Photo of Rebekah Eckhardt, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Rebekah Eckhardt
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Connection matters; we weren't meant to go through life's hurts and challenges alone. Oftentimes we get this connection through friends and family, but sometimes we need more than that. Sometimes it feels as though we are stuck in the spot we are in without hope of things changing. I understand that it's difficult to take that step towards counseling. My heart is to create a space to feel heard, understood, and to gain hope as we walk through those stuck points together.
Connection matters; we weren't meant to go through life's hurts and challenges alone. Oftentimes we get this connection through friends and family, but sometimes we need more than that. Sometimes it feels as though we are stuck in the spot we are in without hope of things changing. I understand that it's difficult to take that step towards counseling. My heart is to create a space to feel heard, understood, and to gain hope as we walk through those stuck points together.
(309) 378-8543 View (309) 378-8543
Photo of Katelyn Mills, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Katelyn Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
I believe we all long for meaningful connections. My goal is to facilitate the discovery of meaning and connection within yourself and within your closest relationships. Trauma looks different to each individual, and I believe we do the best we can to cope using skills we have learned throughout our lives. Unfortunately, many of these skills no longer serve us in a healthy way in the present. Regardless of your past, or where you find yourself today, you deserve to be heard. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to process traumas and challenges, finding healing and peace amidst the chaos.
I believe we all long for meaningful connections. My goal is to facilitate the discovery of meaning and connection within yourself and within your closest relationships. Trauma looks different to each individual, and I believe we do the best we can to cope using skills we have learned throughout our lives. Unfortunately, many of these skills no longer serve us in a healthy way in the present. Regardless of your past, or where you find yourself today, you deserve to be heard. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to process traumas and challenges, finding healing and peace amidst the chaos.
(309) 865-5985 View (309) 865-5985
Photo of Erica Ray, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Erica Ray
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Hello, I'm Erica! Life is difficult and sometimes we forget that we don't have to do it alone. I look forward to having the chance to understand who you are. I have provided therapy out in the community, in schools, as well as in a typical counseling office. I have experience with clients of all ages who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, family conflict, coping with grief and loss, the challenges of parenting, social behavior, and trauma. My approach to counseling is person centered. I believe you are the first and best expert on yourself. I focus on truly hearing what you believe about your own needs and concerns.
Hello, I'm Erica! Life is difficult and sometimes we forget that we don't have to do it alone. I look forward to having the chance to understand who you are. I have provided therapy out in the community, in schools, as well as in a typical counseling office. I have experience with clients of all ages who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, family conflict, coping with grief and loss, the challenges of parenting, social behavior, and trauma. My approach to counseling is person centered. I believe you are the first and best expert on yourself. I focus on truly hearing what you believe about your own needs and concerns.
(309) 777-0897 View (309) 777-0897
Photo of Wisnu Meier, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Wisnu Meier
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Life is meant to be lived well, yet it presents constant changes and challenges which can cause us to feel overwhelmed. Whether you are seeking relief from stress, depression and anxiety, trying to resolve some relationship issues, or understanding your children's concerns, I can help. If you have experienced a loss and would like to take the journey toward recovery so you can experience joy again, I can help. With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness techniques and Writing for emotional healing, I will help you find the path to inner peace. Call/text (309) 472-0798.
Life is meant to be lived well, yet it presents constant changes and challenges which can cause us to feel overwhelmed. Whether you are seeking relief from stress, depression and anxiety, trying to resolve some relationship issues, or understanding your children's concerns, I can help. If you have experienced a loss and would like to take the journey toward recovery so you can experience joy again, I can help. With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness techniques and Writing for emotional healing, I will help you find the path to inner peace. Call/text (309) 472-0798.
(309) 874-4875 View (309) 874-4875
Photo of Amy Fischer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Amy Fischer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Waitlist for new clients
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
Amy specializes in healing women & girls ages 12-45 with relationship trauma (friendships and romantic), healing inner child wounds (bullying, sexual abuse, physical abuse), toxic relationship patterns, emotional eating issues, increasing self love and post-partum depression/anxiety. She uses EMDR, deep guided imagery, hypnotherapy, CBT, and DBT tools to help make positive changes happen. Along with processing past traumas the other goal is to teach you coping tools to effectively manage life on your own. Check out www.mindoasiscounseling.com for more information.
(309) 247-8323 View (309) 247-8323
Photo of Angela Kemner, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Angela Kemner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Welcome! My name is Angela and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nearly 20 years of experience. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and advanced alcohol and drug counselor (CAADC). I specialize in treating adults, couples, youth, and families in a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma & PTSD, substance use, ADHD, anger management, and family/relationship issues, amongst others. My therapy style is person-centered, warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
Welcome! My name is Angela and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nearly 20 years of experience. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and advanced alcohol and drug counselor (CAADC). I specialize in treating adults, couples, youth, and families in a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma & PTSD, substance use, ADHD, anger management, and family/relationship issues, amongst others. My therapy style is person-centered, warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(309) 722-1310 View (309) 722-1310
Photo of Ashley McMurtry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Ashley McMurtry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
I firmly believe in the power of an open mind and empathetic heart, both of which guide me faithfully as I strive to deliver compassion and guidance to those who are stuck in their growing process. I counsel adults using a client-centered approach that allows you, as the expert of your experiences, to guide me as we form a mutually agreed upon plan to meet you where you are at. I care as deeply about your successes and strengths as I do your concerns, so I want to help you reconnect with your best version of you. Sometimes this means looking at the different parts of you, getting to know them better, and offering healing to them.
I firmly believe in the power of an open mind and empathetic heart, both of which guide me faithfully as I strive to deliver compassion and guidance to those who are stuck in their growing process. I counsel adults using a client-centered approach that allows you, as the expert of your experiences, to guide me as we form a mutually agreed upon plan to meet you where you are at. I care as deeply about your successes and strengths as I do your concerns, so I want to help you reconnect with your best version of you. Sometimes this means looking at the different parts of you, getting to know them better, and offering healing to them.
(309) 727-8618 View (309) 727-8618
Photo of Courtney Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Courtney Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615  (Online Only)
I take a laid-back but interactive approach. It is my goal to empower you while helping you take back your life. I specialize in assisting clients move through anxiety, depression, substance abuse, self-esteem, social problems, relationship/family difficulties, life changes and other challenges. My clients want to live their best life and let go of past pains and burdens that are impacting them from their full potential and highest self.
I take a laid-back but interactive approach. It is my goal to empower you while helping you take back your life. I specialize in assisting clients move through anxiety, depression, substance abuse, self-esteem, social problems, relationship/family difficulties, life changes and other challenges. My clients want to live their best life and let go of past pains and burdens that are impacting them from their full potential and highest self.
(309) 893-1998 View (309) 893-1998
Photo of Susan Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Susan Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, HLC, CIMHP, RMT
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Not accepting new clients
I am an Integrative Holistic Psychotherapist focused on Wellness, Healthy Lifestyle, & Stress Reduction/Management using traditional, as well as complimentary & alternative methods, including HeartMath®. I work with high functioning adults and offer a supportive, informal, comfortable & non-judgmental environment. I honor the whole person & build on a client's strengths considering all of the circumstances affecting them. My goal is to help my clients build the insights & skills that bring them lasting success in attaining their goals and the healthy lifestyle that hedges on the side of wellness for a lifetime.
I am an Integrative Holistic Psychotherapist focused on Wellness, Healthy Lifestyle, & Stress Reduction/Management using traditional, as well as complimentary & alternative methods, including HeartMath®. I work with high functioning adults and offer a supportive, informal, comfortable & non-judgmental environment. I honor the whole person & build on a client's strengths considering all of the circumstances affecting them. My goal is to help my clients build the insights & skills that bring them lasting success in attaining their goals and the healthy lifestyle that hedges on the side of wellness for a lifetime.
View
Photo of Edye Stolz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Edye Stolz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
I use an integrative and holistic approach to mental health and wellness, adjusting therapy based on client needs. My work focuses on adults addressing concerns with stress, anxiety, depression, life stages and changes, trauma, grief, chronic illness, caregiver stress, and relationship concerns. I am a cancer survivor and keenly aware of the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatments and I strive to help others manage these challenges.
I use an integrative and holistic approach to mental health and wellness, adjusting therapy based on client needs. My work focuses on adults addressing concerns with stress, anxiety, depression, life stages and changes, trauma, grief, chronic illness, caregiver stress, and relationship concerns. I am a cancer survivor and keenly aware of the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatments and I strive to help others manage these challenges.
(309) 790-3954 View (309) 790-3954

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Peoria, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Peoria, IL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
90% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem
65% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Peoria, IL see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Peoria?

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.