Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Family Services, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Family Services, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Sometimes you just need the right person to talk to. Meet our professional, caring therapists, who provide confidential counseling for clients of all ages through individual, couples and family sessions. Each of our therapists can assist with adjustment and relationship issues, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, grief, loss, trauma and victimization. See our website link, and staff photos for details.
Sometimes you just need the right person to talk to. Meet our professional, caring therapists, who provide confidential counseling for clients of all ages through individual, couples and family sessions. Each of our therapists can assist with adjustment and relationship issues, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, grief, loss, trauma and victimization. See our website link, and staff photos for details.
(336) 415-4712 View (336) 415-4712
Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Winston Salem, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
(336) 791-0314 View (336) 791-0314
Photo of Esther Mendez, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Esther Mendez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27107
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
(336) 814-9297 View (336) 814-9297
Photo of Julie M Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Julie M Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults. I believe clients have their own solutions and when given the time and space they will be able to access these strengths. I have the most experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, school challenges and relationship issues with clients and their families. Please call me so we can discuss treatment options and if I would be a good fit for you. I look forward to talking with you!
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults. I believe clients have their own solutions and when given the time and space they will be able to access these strengths. I have the most experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, school challenges and relationship issues with clients and their families. Please call me so we can discuss treatment options and if I would be a good fit for you. I look forward to talking with you!
(828) 354-0053 View (828) 354-0053
Photo of Megan Oakes, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Megan Oakes
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
So, you’ve made the choice to look for a therapist, but the options out there are vast and overwhelming. You’re looking for someone who is real; a therapist that isn’t just knowledgeable but has lived a life full of experiences where they too have faced life’s challenges head-on. You're hoping to find someone who is relatable and down to earth; someone who is just as human as you are. Hi, my name is Megan, and I’m really glad you’re here.
So, you’ve made the choice to look for a therapist, but the options out there are vast and overwhelming. You’re looking for someone who is real; a therapist that isn’t just knowledgeable but has lived a life full of experiences where they too have faced life’s challenges head-on. You're hoping to find someone who is relatable and down to earth; someone who is just as human as you are. Hi, my name is Megan, and I’m really glad you’re here.
(336) 502-8904 View (336) 502-8904
Photo of Ricky A Speller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Ricky A Speller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I am dedicated to knowing the client and building rapport based off culture, specific needs and the client's ways of expressing themselves and how they view assistance from therapy. At Virgie's Prayer Counseling Service PLLC, I strive to change individuals' opinion about therapy and provide personalized therapy sessions to address specific needs. I have experience working with children, teens and adults in various settings such as schools, office, probation and level III group homes. I have assisted clients to process trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, family issues, stress, and helped couples navigate through challenges.
I am dedicated to knowing the client and building rapport based off culture, specific needs and the client's ways of expressing themselves and how they view assistance from therapy. At Virgie's Prayer Counseling Service PLLC, I strive to change individuals' opinion about therapy and provide personalized therapy sessions to address specific needs. I have experience working with children, teens and adults in various settings such as schools, office, probation and level III group homes. I have assisted clients to process trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, family issues, stress, and helped couples navigate through challenges.
(336) 443-8865 View (336) 443-8865
Photo of Michael Nuckolls, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Michael Nuckolls
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Life comes at us from every angle. Obligations, expectations, and responsibilities from work, family, home, school, and friends can weigh heavy on our shoulders. Everyone wants a piece of us and we aim to tackle it all. We need to be prepared and equipped to handle the challenges. The strategies I employ at Newcastle Counseling are designed to set you up to formulate a plan, overcome obstacles, and solve problems.
Life comes at us from every angle. Obligations, expectations, and responsibilities from work, family, home, school, and friends can weigh heavy on our shoulders. Everyone wants a piece of us and we aim to tackle it all. We need to be prepared and equipped to handle the challenges. The strategies I employ at Newcastle Counseling are designed to set you up to formulate a plan, overcome obstacles, and solve problems.
(336) 814-2839 View (336) 814-2839
Photo of Kristen Swinnely, LCMHC Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Kristen Swinnely
LCMHC Associate, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27107  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck? Are you wanting more from life? You have inside of you all the potential you need. Life is a struggle, and we all have our hard moments, but we don't have to stay in our hard moments. It's my job to listen well, and bring my experiences to help teach you skills to move into a new life. If you can change your behavior, you can change your life, and my goal is to teach you easy skills to make that dream your reality. The best part of therapy is finding your "ah ha" moment, where you see the true potential for your own life, the skills needed to make that dream your reality, and the difference a little work can make.
Do you feel stuck? Are you wanting more from life? You have inside of you all the potential you need. Life is a struggle, and we all have our hard moments, but we don't have to stay in our hard moments. It's my job to listen well, and bring my experiences to help teach you skills to move into a new life. If you can change your behavior, you can change your life, and my goal is to teach you easy skills to make that dream your reality. The best part of therapy is finding your "ah ha" moment, where you see the true potential for your own life, the skills needed to make that dream your reality, and the difference a little work can make.
(336) 594-2261 View (336) 594-2261
Photo of Patricia L Owens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Patricia L Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I believe therapy can be essential for anyone seeking to improve their mental well being. Each of us have experienced our own difficulties, though they may be different, struggle is universal. It is my desire to provide a safe, unbiased, and welcoming space for you to grow to the person you want to be. In therapy I will be there to provide a listening ear and give feedback to assist you in your journey. During this time we will work as a team navigating the ups and downs together.
I believe therapy can be essential for anyone seeking to improve their mental well being. Each of us have experienced our own difficulties, though they may be different, struggle is universal. It is my desire to provide a safe, unbiased, and welcoming space for you to grow to the person you want to be. In therapy I will be there to provide a listening ear and give feedback to assist you in your journey. During this time we will work as a team navigating the ups and downs together.
(336) 518-9915 View (336) 518-9915
Photo of Katie Davin, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Katie Davin
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Anxiety and depression can be suffocating and often restrict you from engaging in life in the ways you want to. They are quite successful at creating a cycle of disappointment and desperation that convince you you’re alone and helpless. While that inner voice of yours may be wreaking havoc and demanding that you rethink that situation or decision for the umpteenth time, let me remind you that you are not broken nor are you alone. Everyone has an inherent ability to achieve personal growth and overcome the ravages of anxiety — we just need some guidance at times.
Anxiety and depression can be suffocating and often restrict you from engaging in life in the ways you want to. They are quite successful at creating a cycle of disappointment and desperation that convince you you’re alone and helpless. While that inner voice of yours may be wreaking havoc and demanding that you rethink that situation or decision for the umpteenth time, let me remind you that you are not broken nor are you alone. Everyone has an inherent ability to achieve personal growth and overcome the ravages of anxiety — we just need some guidance at times.
(336) 863-3954 View (336) 863-3954
Photo of H. M. Humphrey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
H. M. Humphrey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
I help couples make sense of how they are getting stuck in conflict. I help them organize their experience, and clarify the good emotional reasons for why they are stuck. Together we identify unmet needs and longings, and work to develop understanding and responsiveness. With greater closeness and trust, partners are able to find solutions to life’s challenges, heal from relationship wounds, and experience love again. I have experience helping couples recover from infidelity/betrayals. When counseling individual clients, I work from a trauma-informed, attachment lens. I help individuals clarify what they need to heal and grow.
I help couples make sense of how they are getting stuck in conflict. I help them organize their experience, and clarify the good emotional reasons for why they are stuck. Together we identify unmet needs and longings, and work to develop understanding and responsiveness. With greater closeness and trust, partners are able to find solutions to life’s challenges, heal from relationship wounds, and experience love again. I have experience helping couples recover from infidelity/betrayals. When counseling individual clients, I work from a trauma-informed, attachment lens. I help individuals clarify what they need to heal and grow.
(336) 606-3861 View (336) 606-3861
Photo of Hayley McCraw, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Hayley McCraw
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I provide creative care that celebrates all identities. I primarily work with emerging adults and teens 15+ to help navigate an exciting phase of life filled with new transitions and challenges. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced interpersonal trauma such as sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking. While allowing you to take the lead on your therapeutic journey, I will support you through healing, self-discovery, and coping with distressing feelings and experiences. I am committed to considering the impact of identity, oppression, and societal systems on your concerns.
I provide creative care that celebrates all identities. I primarily work with emerging adults and teens 15+ to help navigate an exciting phase of life filled with new transitions and challenges. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced interpersonal trauma such as sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and human trafficking. While allowing you to take the lead on your therapeutic journey, I will support you through healing, self-discovery, and coping with distressing feelings and experiences. I am committed to considering the impact of identity, oppression, and societal systems on your concerns.
(336) 715-4402 View (336) 715-4402
Photo of Harry Lerner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Harry Lerner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101  (Online Only)
As a family systems therapist, I believe that individuals are best understood within the context of relationships and through the assessment of our various daily interactions. I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychotherapy, which depending on the need, may include couples, whole families, or just an individual. Specifically, much of my practice focuses on relationship stress, family issues, couple/marital satisfaction, communication skills, anxiety/depression, child/adolescent disorders and behaviors, and parenting success. (Please visit our website for more detail about our clinicians and specialties)
As a family systems therapist, I believe that individuals are best understood within the context of relationships and through the assessment of our various daily interactions. I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychotherapy, which depending on the need, may include couples, whole families, or just an individual. Specifically, much of my practice focuses on relationship stress, family issues, couple/marital satisfaction, communication skills, anxiety/depression, child/adolescent disorders and behaviors, and parenting success. (Please visit our website for more detail about our clinicians and specialties)
(336) 750-6615 View (336) 750-6615
Photo of Crossnore Communities for Children in Winston Salem, NC
Crossnore Communities for Children
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
Crossnore Communities for Children offers services to outpatient clients utilizing a trauma-informed model of care. We provide each client with a complete clinical assessment to ensure they receive personalized services and the best care for their needs. Our clients work with a therapist in a consistent, structured, and collaborative environment that promotes growth and healing.
Crossnore Communities for Children offers services to outpatient clients utilizing a trauma-informed model of care. We provide each client with a complete clinical assessment to ensure they receive personalized services and the best care for their needs. Our clients work with a therapist in a consistent, structured, and collaborative environment that promotes growth and healing.
(336) 276-0429 View (336) 276-0429
Photo of Chris Vasilos, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Chris Vasilos
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
In my work as a therapist, I strive to promote positive change. I have been in practice since 2013 and have worked in various mental health settings, including psychiatric hospitals, day treatment centers for troubled youth, intensive in-home therapy, contract work through public schools, and community-based outpatient treatment. I have experience in working with clients who struggle in the following areas: anxiety, anger management, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, self-harm, major life events, and excessive worrying.
In my work as a therapist, I strive to promote positive change. I have been in practice since 2013 and have worked in various mental health settings, including psychiatric hospitals, day treatment centers for troubled youth, intensive in-home therapy, contract work through public schools, and community-based outpatient treatment. I have experience in working with clients who struggle in the following areas: anxiety, anger management, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, self-harm, major life events, and excessive worrying.
(336) 360-3925 View (336) 360-3925
Photo of Tanya Gunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Tanya Gunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
(336) 949-6149 View (336) 949-6149
Photo of Moore Ways To Success LLC, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Moore Ways To Success LLC
Counselor, MSRC, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
It's simple: EVERYBODY needs SOMEBODY to talk to! Everyone has a desire for personal success. Unfortunately, Stress, Anxiety, Depression and Disability can negatively impact that desire. I offer a unique approach and have extensive experience in providing guidance to individuals who feel stuck, lost, complacent or confused. Personal, Professional and Relationship Success is possible! Through goal-oriented counseling, together, we identify your desires, set a plan for reaching them and start on your unique path to a successful life! There isn't just one way to Success there are Moore Ways to Success and we are going to find yours!
It's simple: EVERYBODY needs SOMEBODY to talk to! Everyone has a desire for personal success. Unfortunately, Stress, Anxiety, Depression and Disability can negatively impact that desire. I offer a unique approach and have extensive experience in providing guidance to individuals who feel stuck, lost, complacent or confused. Personal, Professional and Relationship Success is possible! Through goal-oriented counseling, together, we identify your desires, set a plan for reaching them and start on your unique path to a successful life! There isn't just one way to Success there are Moore Ways to Success and we are going to find yours!
(336) 276-1448 View (336) 276-1448
Photo of Yamuna Cleopatra Roach, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Yamuna Cleopatra Roach
Counselor, MS, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Taking that first step to reach out to a therapist requires courage, yet the benefits are deeply rewarding. In my practice, I work with individuals of all ages, crafting a collaborative journey tailored to each person's unique needs. With a foundation of support, empathy, and keen insight, I create a nurturing and empowering therapeutic environment. I adapt my methods to meet clients where they are in their personal growth, ensuring a customized and comfortable pace for their journey towards healing and self-discovery.
Taking that first step to reach out to a therapist requires courage, yet the benefits are deeply rewarding. In my practice, I work with individuals of all ages, crafting a collaborative journey tailored to each person's unique needs. With a foundation of support, empathy, and keen insight, I create a nurturing and empowering therapeutic environment. I adapt my methods to meet clients where they are in their personal growth, ensuring a customized and comfortable pace for their journey towards healing and self-discovery.
(336) 332-2277 View (336) 332-2277
Photo of Olivia Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Olivia Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I enjoy working with all ages, especially young children and teens. My areas of interest include traumatic experiences, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression and grief. I have had specialized experience working with trauma survivors of a of all ages in a hospital setting. I believe in a collaborative, empathetic, person-centered, holistic approach.
I enjoy working with all ages, especially young children and teens. My areas of interest include traumatic experiences, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression and grief. I have had specialized experience working with trauma survivors of a of all ages in a hospital setting. I believe in a collaborative, empathetic, person-centered, holistic approach.
(336) 502-2114 View (336) 502-2114
Photo of Shelby Prevatt, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Shelby Prevatt
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101  (Online Only)
Hello there! I’m so glad you’re taking the step to reach out and connect with someone familiar with helping people navigate the challenges life often throws at us. From depression to burnout, and anything in between, I’m here to help you not only work on the issues at hand, but help you uncover the core reason why you're no longer feeling like yourself. While I specialize in working with clients 16+ struggling with eating disorders, I’m also passionate about trauma work, neurodivergence, attachment concerns, and general mood changes.
Hello there! I’m so glad you’re taking the step to reach out and connect with someone familiar with helping people navigate the challenges life often throws at us. From depression to burnout, and anything in between, I’m here to help you not only work on the issues at hand, but help you uncover the core reason why you're no longer feeling like yourself. While I specialize in working with clients 16+ struggling with eating disorders, I’m also passionate about trauma work, neurodivergence, attachment concerns, and general mood changes.
(980) 243-4224 View (980) 243-4224

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

500+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Winston Salem, NC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
76% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Aetna
48% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Winston Salem, NC see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Winston Salem?

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.