Therapists in Peoria, IL

Photo of Jayshree Panchal, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Jayshree Panchal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Join me to address concerns that you, your child, and/or your family may have been struggling with recently, for weeks, months, or years. Depression, anxiety, professional or academic struggles, grief, and loss often cause isolation leading to setbacks with your academics, health, personal relationships, or career. Please know that you are not alone in your journey. Allow me the privilege and honor to serve you, your child, and/or family while you navigate the difficult emotions, conversations, and symptoms that continue to affect your family in a deeply personal and life altering way.
Join me to address concerns that you, your child, and/or your family may have been struggling with recently, for weeks, months, or years. Depression, anxiety, professional or academic struggles, grief, and loss often cause isolation leading to setbacks with your academics, health, personal relationships, or career. Please know that you are not alone in your journey. Allow me the privilege and honor to serve you, your child, and/or family while you navigate the difficult emotions, conversations, and symptoms that continue to affect your family in a deeply personal and life altering way.
(309) 727-8936 View (309) 727-8936
Photo of Rajashree Iyer, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Rajashree Iyer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Rajashree Ranu Iyer, LCPC, approach is simultaneously compassionate and straightforward. Those seeking her services may experience her as a clinician who gets right to the heart of the issue, speaks with honesty and integrity, and encourages her clients to be the best version of themselves. Ranu earned a graduate degree in counseling and special education from Southern Illinois University. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Tamil, she supports adolescents and third culture kids navigate the difficulties in life.
Rajashree Ranu Iyer, LCPC, approach is simultaneously compassionate and straightforward. Those seeking her services may experience her as a clinician who gets right to the heart of the issue, speaks with honesty and integrity, and encourages her clients to be the best version of themselves. Ranu earned a graduate degree in counseling and special education from Southern Illinois University. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Tamil, she supports adolescents and third culture kids navigate the difficulties in life.
(309) 316-7471 View (309) 316-7471
Photo of Michelle Matzke, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Michelle Matzke
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
It is my passion to help individuals and families navigate life's challenges and achieve their mental health and well-being goals. I strive to provide compassionate care in a safe and non-judgmental environment for every individual who walks through the door. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience built on trust and respect. Every individual is unique with their own strengths and experiences. My person-centered and strength-based approach ensures that therapy is tailored to meet your specific needs. I have experience in many different therapeutic modalities such as play, art, music, mindfulness and more.
It is my passion to help individuals and families navigate life's challenges and achieve their mental health and well-being goals. I strive to provide compassionate care in a safe and non-judgmental environment for every individual who walks through the door. I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience built on trust and respect. Every individual is unique with their own strengths and experiences. My person-centered and strength-based approach ensures that therapy is tailored to meet your specific needs. I have experience in many different therapeutic modalities such as play, art, music, mindfulness and more.
(309) 928-0618 View (309) 928-0618
Photo of Neurotherapy Institute/ Chapin & Russell Assocs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Neurotherapy Institute/ Chapin & Russell Assocs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
As a trained Neurotherapist, I work with individuals struggling with symptoms such as; depression, anxiety, sleep problems, brain fog, suicidal thoughts, migraines, insomnia, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, just to name a few. Neurofeedback is an advanced computer-based technology that's been validated to balance and optimize the brain. Many argue that Neurofeedback is the safest and most effective form of treatment for mental health conditions. Neurofeedback is non-invasive, interactive, fun, and a medication-free option that helps you retrain and strengthen your brain. The benefits continue long after the sessions have ended.
As a trained Neurotherapist, I work with individuals struggling with symptoms such as; depression, anxiety, sleep problems, brain fog, suicidal thoughts, migraines, insomnia, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, just to name a few. Neurofeedback is an advanced computer-based technology that's been validated to balance and optimize the brain. Many argue that Neurofeedback is the safest and most effective form of treatment for mental health conditions. Neurofeedback is non-invasive, interactive, fun, and a medication-free option that helps you retrain and strengthen your brain. The benefits continue long after the sessions have ended.
(309) 245-6121 View (309) 245-6121
Photo of Deborah K Scott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Deborah K Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61604
“Emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as Breathing is!” We all need to know that we deserve happiness even if we aren’t used to it. I have been a Social Worker for 28 years. In that time, I have worked in Community Mental Health, Rehab to home and long-term care, and hospice. I believe creating an environment of trust and safety is the most important part of the therapeutic relationship. I have experience with grief, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and trauma.
“Emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as Breathing is!” We all need to know that we deserve happiness even if we aren’t used to it. I have been a Social Worker for 28 years. In that time, I have worked in Community Mental Health, Rehab to home and long-term care, and hospice. I believe creating an environment of trust and safety is the most important part of the therapeutic relationship. I have experience with grief, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and trauma.
(309) 777-0813 View (309) 777-0813
Photo of Amanda Breeden, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Amanda Breeden
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
As a therapist and human being, I believe in the power of counseling and its success at different times in one's life, whether for the purpose of personal growth or to address more serious mental health concerns or problematic behaviors. As a foundation to the counseling relationship, I help clients and families understand the process of therapy and that all people, children and adults, grow and heal on their own time. I believe that by providing a safe and supportive environment, clients are able to make positive, lasting change.
As a therapist and human being, I believe in the power of counseling and its success at different times in one's life, whether for the purpose of personal growth or to address more serious mental health concerns or problematic behaviors. As a foundation to the counseling relationship, I help clients and families understand the process of therapy and that all people, children and adults, grow and heal on their own time. I believe that by providing a safe and supportive environment, clients are able to make positive, lasting change.
(309) 733-4074 View (309) 733-4074
Photo of Anna Liszka, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Anna Liszka
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Anna Liszka, LCPC, meets clients where they are and sets realistic goals to help them achieve their greatest potential. By creating a safe, relaxed, non-judgmental space for clients to be their authentic selves, Anna accepts her clients for who they are and welcomes people from all backgrounds. After earning a graduate degree from Bradley University in 2019, Anna worked in a residential setting with children experiencing mood and behavioral disorders. She then transitioned to private practice, enabling her to assist clients from various backgrounds.
Anna Liszka, LCPC, meets clients where they are and sets realistic goals to help them achieve their greatest potential. By creating a safe, relaxed, non-judgmental space for clients to be their authentic selves, Anna accepts her clients for who they are and welcomes people from all backgrounds. After earning a graduate degree from Bradley University in 2019, Anna worked in a residential setting with children experiencing mood and behavioral disorders. She then transitioned to private practice, enabling her to assist clients from various backgrounds.
(309) 326-5811 View (309) 326-5811
Photo of Shauna Summers, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Shauna Summers
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
I enjoy helping individual adults, couples, and families recognize and overcome any problematic cognitive or behavioral patterns that play a role in holding them back from living their best lives. Sometimes these problematic patterns center around how we think about things like our own worthiness, the trustworthiness of others, and what a successful parent/partner/worker "looks" like. We have been learning these core beliefs about ourselves and the world since before we could walk. Sometimes we stop updating those core beliefs when we get new information and we become stuck. You can get unstuck with Shauna.
I enjoy helping individual adults, couples, and families recognize and overcome any problematic cognitive or behavioral patterns that play a role in holding them back from living their best lives. Sometimes these problematic patterns center around how we think about things like our own worthiness, the trustworthiness of others, and what a successful parent/partner/worker "looks" like. We have been learning these core beliefs about ourselves and the world since before we could walk. Sometimes we stop updating those core beliefs when we get new information and we become stuck. You can get unstuck with Shauna.
(309) 396-6090 View (309) 396-6090
Photo of Stacey J Munoz, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Stacey J Munoz
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
I have several years of experience in working with children who are experiencing difficulty in maintaining good behavior in school and at home. Adolescents who are struggling to maintain a safe and stable mood that includes self harmful behavior, poor self esteem, and anger. Adults who are struggling to overcome depressive symptoms, anxiety issues and family issues.
I have several years of experience in working with children who are experiencing difficulty in maintaining good behavior in school and at home. Adolescents who are struggling to maintain a safe and stable mood that includes self harmful behavior, poor self esteem, and anger. Adults who are struggling to overcome depressive symptoms, anxiety issues and family issues.
(309) 376-8143 View (309) 376-8143
Photo of Julie Eaton, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Julie Eaton
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Twists and turns are part of life, but having an impartial voice that lends a new perspective can make navigating them easier. We all have our own struggles, experiences, and obstacles. We also have our own strengths, talents, and resources. Realizing how to utilize your unique strengths to discover ways to overcome obstacles is my passion. We all have our differences and it is those differences that give us strength as individuals, couples, families, and communities.
Twists and turns are part of life, but having an impartial voice that lends a new perspective can make navigating them easier. We all have our own struggles, experiences, and obstacles. We also have our own strengths, talents, and resources. Realizing how to utilize your unique strengths to discover ways to overcome obstacles is my passion. We all have our differences and it is those differences that give us strength as individuals, couples, families, and communities.
(309) 322-9082 View (309) 322-9082
Photo of Jie Jiao, Psychologist in Peoria, IL
Jie Jiao
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Dr. Jie Jiao is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She obtained her doctoral degree from the clinical psychology program and the rehabilitation psychology track at Illinois Institute of Technology. She has worked with a clinically and culturally diverse population in a variety of settings, ranging from a community mental health center to a multidisciplinary medical center. Dr. Jiao's theoretical orientation is primarily cognitive-behavioral. She integrates concepts and strategies from other theoretical frameworks (e. g. , interpersonal, psychodynamic) depending on the characteristics of the patient and the presenting problem.
Dr. Jie Jiao is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. She obtained her doctoral degree from the clinical psychology program and the rehabilitation psychology track at Illinois Institute of Technology. She has worked with a clinically and culturally diverse population in a variety of settings, ranging from a community mental health center to a multidisciplinary medical center. Dr. Jiao's theoretical orientation is primarily cognitive-behavioral. She integrates concepts and strategies from other theoretical frameworks (e. g. , interpersonal, psychodynamic) depending on the characteristics of the patient and the presenting problem.
(309) 233-2443 View (309) 233-2443
Photo of Kelsey Hardy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Kelsey Hardy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
In today’s busy and often chaotic world it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Things like self-care and reflection are often overlooked and we find ourselves struggling to stay afloat.  Engaging in therapy can provide a healthy perspective from which to reflect on and address the areas of life that may need improvement in order to find balance and fulfillment in life.
In today’s busy and often chaotic world it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Things like self-care and reflection are often overlooked and we find ourselves struggling to stay afloat.  Engaging in therapy can provide a healthy perspective from which to reflect on and address the areas of life that may need improvement in order to find balance and fulfillment in life.
(309) 760-6533 View (309) 760-6533
Photo of Leslie Perera, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Peoria, IL
Leslie Perera
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, AMFT
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Finding it hard to transition to civilian life? Grappling with your new unfolding reality? Troubled by memories of your experience in the service?” Feel drained by thoughts you just can’t shut off? No one understands the emptiness, turmoil, and lack of structure you are facing? Turned to alcohol, drugs, or other addictions to cope? If you served in the military, law enforcement, or first responder or have a loved one suffering from trauma, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Anger Issues, or marital difficulties, I can help! During my 20 years of military service, I have experienced extended deployments, combat action, and led commands.
Finding it hard to transition to civilian life? Grappling with your new unfolding reality? Troubled by memories of your experience in the service?” Feel drained by thoughts you just can’t shut off? No one understands the emptiness, turmoil, and lack of structure you are facing? Turned to alcohol, drugs, or other addictions to cope? If you served in the military, law enforcement, or first responder or have a loved one suffering from trauma, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Anger Issues, or marital difficulties, I can help! During my 20 years of military service, I have experienced extended deployments, combat action, and led commands.
(309) 245-3869 View (309) 245-3869
Photo of Nikki Burk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Nikki Burk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
It is my belief that all too often in life, we are dealt situations and circumstances we don't prepare for. We might feel as though we have no support or the proper care we deserve. I feel that therapy can be beneficial in ways that help us understand ourselves in a more positive and healthy way. I encourage putting our mental and physical well-being first, so that we are able to confront the challenges of everyday a little bit easier. I enjoy helping others find strength within themselves, and using this to lead a productive and beneficial lifestyle.
It is my belief that all too often in life, we are dealt situations and circumstances we don't prepare for. We might feel as though we have no support or the proper care we deserve. I feel that therapy can be beneficial in ways that help us understand ourselves in a more positive and healthy way. I encourage putting our mental and physical well-being first, so that we are able to confront the challenges of everyday a little bit easier. I enjoy helping others find strength within themselves, and using this to lead a productive and beneficial lifestyle.
(309) 319-7454 View (309) 319-7454
Photo of Paul Schellenberg, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Paul Schellenberg
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Everyone experiences pain in life and my goal is to keep the pain from becoming a person's identity. Our daily experiences are both joyful and painful. How we cope with these experience, either through healthy or unhealthy coping skills, will determine our new thought processes. These thought processes lead to self beliefs. I enjoy joining people in this moment of their lives and helping them redefine coping skills to rid themselves of related negative self beliefs.
Everyone experiences pain in life and my goal is to keep the pain from becoming a person's identity. Our daily experiences are both joyful and painful. How we cope with these experience, either through healthy or unhealthy coping skills, will determine our new thought processes. These thought processes lead to self beliefs. I enjoy joining people in this moment of their lives and helping them redefine coping skills to rid themselves of related negative self beliefs.
(309) 265-0504 View (309) 265-0504
Photo of Magan Hopson, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Magan Hopson
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Life is hard at times and can leave us feeling hurt, confused or even hopeless, but I do not believe that any situation is hopeless. As a therapist, and as a person, I believe in the healing process that can occur through having an unbiased person who is willing to sit and listen to our needs. My goal is to be that listening ear for you and help you learn how to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, identify how to draw on your strengths to make positive changes and understand that you have the power to overcome any issue.
Life is hard at times and can leave us feeling hurt, confused or even hopeless, but I do not believe that any situation is hopeless. As a therapist, and as a person, I believe in the healing process that can occur through having an unbiased person who is willing to sit and listen to our needs. My goal is to be that listening ear for you and help you learn how to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, identify how to draw on your strengths to make positive changes and understand that you have the power to overcome any issue.
(217) 396-3461 View (217) 396-3461
Photo of Tonya Camacho, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Tonya Camacho
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Are you feeling helpless, hopeless, and alienated due to addiction? Do you feel beaten down, like there’s no way out? Have you tried to quit and failed? Are you tired of believing the lies of addiction? Are you not sure if you have hit rock bottom? I can help you find the way out. Your bottom is simply when you quit digging. Whether your struggles are with alcohol, drugs, sex & porn addiction, shopping/spending addiction, gambling addiction, I can help. I will walk you through the often painful process of self-discovery and awareness. If you want to get your life back on track, then call me now. I have immediate availability.
Are you feeling helpless, hopeless, and alienated due to addiction? Do you feel beaten down, like there’s no way out? Have you tried to quit and failed? Are you tired of believing the lies of addiction? Are you not sure if you have hit rock bottom? I can help you find the way out. Your bottom is simply when you quit digging. Whether your struggles are with alcohol, drugs, sex & porn addiction, shopping/spending addiction, gambling addiction, I can help. I will walk you through the often painful process of self-discovery and awareness. If you want to get your life back on track, then call me now. I have immediate availability.
(309) 741-2463 View (309) 741-2463
Photo of Angela Zumbek, Counselor in Peoria, IL
Angela Zumbek
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
I know how challenging it can be to reach out and start the process of therapy. I enjoy working with clients who experience a variety of needs from their therapist. This includes processing traumas, minimizing depressive symptoms, more effectively managing symptoms of anxiety, and more! It is important to come into a counseling setting with an open mind, and to remember that therapy is a very vulnerable process. Developing trust within a counseling relationship is an important foundation to reaching your goals in the counseling setting.
I know how challenging it can be to reach out and start the process of therapy. I enjoy working with clients who experience a variety of needs from their therapist. This includes processing traumas, minimizing depressive symptoms, more effectively managing symptoms of anxiety, and more! It is important to come into a counseling setting with an open mind, and to remember that therapy is a very vulnerable process. Developing trust within a counseling relationship is an important foundation to reaching your goals in the counseling setting.
(309) 305-8494 View (309) 305-8494
Photo of Lori Bushell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Peoria, IL
Lori Bushell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Change is possible and I believe you have the ability to create positive changes that will allow healing throughout your journey in life. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions shape the way we interact with others, and in turn, how others interact with us. My approach is to create a safe, non-shaming, compassionate therapeutic environment coupled with a strong emphasis on collaboration. As an experienced and dedicated therapist for over 20 years, my goal is for you to learn tools and effective strategies to reach your mutually agreed upon goals in therapy.
Change is possible and I believe you have the ability to create positive changes that will allow healing throughout your journey in life. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions shape the way we interact with others, and in turn, how others interact with us. My approach is to create a safe, non-shaming, compassionate therapeutic environment coupled with a strong emphasis on collaboration. As an experienced and dedicated therapist for over 20 years, my goal is for you to learn tools and effective strategies to reach your mutually agreed upon goals in therapy.
(309) 517-5081 View (309) 517-5081
Photo of Joy Wolf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Peoria, IL
Joy Wolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
Hello, my name is Joy, and I’m so glad you’re taking that first difficult step and considering therapy. My clients come to me for a lot of reasons, but most of them are feeling stuck. I believe we all have those times when moving forward toward healing is scary, or almost too difficult, or we don’t even know what moving forward means for us. Therapy can truly help. I help people with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, grief and loss, past trauma that won’t let go, and more.
Hello, my name is Joy, and I’m so glad you’re taking that first difficult step and considering therapy. My clients come to me for a lot of reasons, but most of them are feeling stuck. I believe we all have those times when moving forward toward healing is scary, or almost too difficult, or we don’t even know what moving forward means for us. Therapy can truly help. I help people with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, grief and loss, past trauma that won’t let go, and more.
(309) 220-5166 View (309) 220-5166

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Peoria, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Peoria, IL who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
89% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem
65% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% 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.