Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Jennifer Catlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jennifer Catlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Everyone needs some help from time to time, and that's okay. Whether you desire healing from past events or you're stuck deciding which direction to take, I would love to come and walk beside you and be there with you. You are the expert on your life, but sometimes having a supportive partner in exploring your life can help. My practice and guiding orientation is a holistic approach, one that focuses on your mental, physical, and spiritual health. Every person is unique and I like to honor that by emphasizing your innate strengths and providing you with tools you need. I provide a safe place to share your hurts and to heal.
Everyone needs some help from time to time, and that's okay. Whether you desire healing from past events or you're stuck deciding which direction to take, I would love to come and walk beside you and be there with you. You are the expert on your life, but sometimes having a supportive partner in exploring your life can help. My practice and guiding orientation is a holistic approach, one that focuses on your mental, physical, and spiritual health. Every person is unique and I like to honor that by emphasizing your innate strengths and providing you with tools you need. I provide a safe place to share your hurts and to heal.
(614) 942-8737 View (614) 942-8737
Photo of Fresh Start Therapy and Wellness, LLC in Westerville, OH
Fresh Start Therapy and Wellness, LLC
LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
You just want to breathe. You just want to hope. You just want to know that there can be a better tomorrow, a fresh start. You have tried it alone for long enough, and you have decided that it's time to bring in some reinforcements. At Fresh Start, we see each person as an individual and seek to fit treatment to his or her needs. We will be fair. We will be compassionate. We will be honest. We will be in it for as long as you are able or willing. Life can beat you up. It's not your fault. Give yourself the support you need in a judgment-free, kind, honest space. What do you have to lose?
You just want to breathe. You just want to hope. You just want to know that there can be a better tomorrow, a fresh start. You have tried it alone for long enough, and you have decided that it's time to bring in some reinforcements. At Fresh Start, we see each person as an individual and seek to fit treatment to his or her needs. We will be fair. We will be compassionate. We will be honest. We will be in it for as long as you are able or willing. Life can beat you up. It's not your fault. Give yourself the support you need in a judgment-free, kind, honest space. What do you have to lose?
(380) 333-9826 View (380) 333-9826
Photo of Amy Weller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Amy Weller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am passionate about trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBQT concerns, personality disorders, and neurodivergence. An ideal client is an individual who has a growth mindset and explores their thoughts and feelings and how they impact their behavior. They may not understand how those thoughts derived from past experiences, but they are willing to open old wounds given the right tools. They feel safe and secure and want to heal through hard work and determination.
I am passionate about trauma, depression, anxiety, LGBQT concerns, personality disorders, and neurodivergence. An ideal client is an individual who has a growth mindset and explores their thoughts and feelings and how they impact their behavior. They may not understand how those thoughts derived from past experiences, but they are willing to open old wounds given the right tools. They feel safe and secure and want to heal through hard work and determination.
(380) 600-8835 View (380) 600-8835
Photo of Queen Watson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Queen Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
Queen Watson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Masters of Arts from The University of Cincinnati. Queen offers clients authenticity, encouragement throughout the therapeutic relationship, and continuous education regarding the various components of their presenting concerns. She aims to normalize seeking support for mental health concerns and the mental health strains that individuals can experience when facing daily life challenges. Outside of work Queen enjoys writing poetry, painting, and cooking. Times for creative expression are important parts of her day.
(614) 762-9107 View (614) 762-9107
Photo of Contessa Bush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Contessa Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
(614) 963-3033 View (614) 963-3033
Photo of Katherine McCullough, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Katherine McCullough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Katie McCullough is a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio, Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Education from The Ohio State University in May 2021. She is currently a graduate student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program and plans to graduate with her MSW in May 2024. Katie is currently interested in utilizing holistic, mind-body-spirit, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy frameworks to treat a wide range of client populations.
Katie McCullough is a Licensed Social Work Trainee through the State of Ohio, Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Education from The Ohio State University in May 2021. She is currently a graduate student in The Ohio State University's Master of Social Work Program and plans to graduate with her MSW in May 2024. Katie is currently interested in utilizing holistic, mind-body-spirit, strengths-based, and client-centered therapy frameworks to treat a wide range of client populations.
(614) 968-8924 View (614) 968-8924
Photo of Angela S Hackney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Angela S Hackney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you need a safe, non-judgmental environment, where you feel heard? I offer solution-focused, strengths-based interventions to help you move forward. I love to be creative; offering art, music and play to help each client best express themselves. I am an active listener, focused on empowering you. I started my social work journey at an in-patient adult hospital, then moved to intensive community based therapy with children. Now I am accepting new clients for private practice. I welcome any person, any age, who wants to feel more empowered in their lives, to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
Do you need a safe, non-judgmental environment, where you feel heard? I offer solution-focused, strengths-based interventions to help you move forward. I love to be creative; offering art, music and play to help each client best express themselves. I am an active listener, focused on empowering you. I started my social work journey at an in-patient adult hospital, then moved to intensive community based therapy with children. Now I am accepting new clients for private practice. I welcome any person, any age, who wants to feel more empowered in their lives, to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
(380) 201-9214 View (380) 201-9214
Photo of Jennifer Kimpan, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Westerville, OH
Jennifer Kimpan
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LICDC, ICADC, LADC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Change is Possible, Recovery Works. When you or someone you know is struggling with Addiction, it is difficult to know what to do. Make New Beginnings Counseling Center your first step. We provide comprehensive drug, alcohol, and addiction recovery services for those struggling and for those who want to support their recovery. Hope starts here. Recovery works, take the first step toward yours.
Change is Possible, Recovery Works. When you or someone you know is struggling with Addiction, it is difficult to know what to do. Make New Beginnings Counseling Center your first step. We provide comprehensive drug, alcohol, and addiction recovery services for those struggling and for those who want to support their recovery. Hope starts here. Recovery works, take the first step toward yours.
(937) 583-4022 View (937) 583-4022
Photo of Patricia Ringold, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Patricia Ringold
Counselor, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
As a clinician, I highly respect the courage and honesty that my clients bring to the counseling relationship. It is an honor for me to engage with others in this work of expanding into the person we wish to be. In my years of practice, I have consistently witnessed our capacity to progress and grow. While I acknowledge that we each do the best our situation, I welcome people to my office so that they can transcend their current experience and have a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. Relationships are a key to healing. When we feel authentic safety within our relationships, we create a framework in which we can move forward.
As a clinician, I highly respect the courage and honesty that my clients bring to the counseling relationship. It is an honor for me to engage with others in this work of expanding into the person we wish to be. In my years of practice, I have consistently witnessed our capacity to progress and grow. While I acknowledge that we each do the best our situation, I welcome people to my office so that they can transcend their current experience and have a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. Relationships are a key to healing. When we feel authentic safety within our relationships, we create a framework in which we can move forward.
(614) 957-2845 View (614) 957-2845
Photo of Rebecca Owens in Westerville, OH
Rebecca Owens
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes life presents challenges and circumstances that leave us feeling lost, hurt, frustrated, or overwhelmed. I would be privileged to walk alongside you and provide support as you navigate through the journey of recovering from your circumstances. We will work together to implement helpful coping skills to provide what you need to move forward with strength and confidence.
Sometimes life presents challenges and circumstances that leave us feeling lost, hurt, frustrated, or overwhelmed. I would be privileged to walk alongside you and provide support as you navigate through the journey of recovering from your circumstances. We will work together to implement helpful coping skills to provide what you need to move forward with strength and confidence.
(614) 763-6324 x713 View (614) 763-6324 x713
Photo of Lorie A Kaufman Rees, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lorie A Kaufman Rees
Counselor, MA, MFCS, PCCS
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
GOING THROUGH A HARD TIME? Much like sedimentary rock forms over time, our early experiences are deposited within us layer upon layer, shaping who we are today. But even once rock is formed, it doesn’t ever stay the same. There are natural forces that are RE-forming it continually. And the same is true for us. So when we’re not aware a formational process is taking place, the events of our lives can sometimes be confusing, uncomfortable, or even downright painful. RE|formation Coaching helps you embrace naturally occurring experiences and engage with them in a way that allows YOU to determine how they ultimately reshape your life.
GOING THROUGH A HARD TIME? Much like sedimentary rock forms over time, our early experiences are deposited within us layer upon layer, shaping who we are today. But even once rock is formed, it doesn’t ever stay the same. There are natural forces that are RE-forming it continually. And the same is true for us. So when we’re not aware a formational process is taking place, the events of our lives can sometimes be confusing, uncomfortable, or even downright painful. RE|formation Coaching helps you embrace naturally occurring experiences and engage with them in a way that allows YOU to determine how they ultimately reshape your life.
(614) 482-2657 View (614) 482-2657
Photo of Doug Bennett, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Doug Bennett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I believe that each client that seeks out psychotherapy has strengths. These strengths may be untapped, unrecognized, or underutilized. But they exist. I assist in connecting my clients to their internal resources. My clients also present with challenges for which they have an investment to change. Change, both immediate and long-lasting, are at the heart of psychotherapy.
I believe that each client that seeks out psychotherapy has strengths. These strengths may be untapped, unrecognized, or underutilized. But they exist. I assist in connecting my clients to their internal resources. My clients also present with challenges for which they have an investment to change. Change, both immediate and long-lasting, are at the heart of psychotherapy.
(614) 682-2124 View (614) 682-2124
Photo of Sophie Hans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
(380) 201-9945 View (380) 201-9945
Photo of Shaun B O'Ryan, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Shaun B O'Ryan
Counselor, MACPC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I began practicing in 2004, seeing children and teens, and working with their parents. Over the years I have broadened my scope of practice to include working with adults and couples as well. An initial focus on young clients' issues like ADHD, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues like ODD and CD, has grown into addressing a wider number of issues including anxiety disorders (including phobias, PTSD, etc.), marital issues, depression in adults, and so on.
I began practicing in 2004, seeing children and teens, and working with their parents. Over the years I have broadened my scope of practice to include working with adults and couples as well. An initial focus on young clients' issues like ADHD, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues like ODD and CD, has grown into addressing a wider number of issues including anxiety disorders (including phobias, PTSD, etc.), marital issues, depression in adults, and so on.
(614) 468-5064 View (614) 468-5064
Photo of De’Aja Hines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
De’Aja Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Deaja Hines, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
(614) 683-4803 View (614) 683-4803
Photo of New Heights Counseling Services, Counselor in Westerville, OH
New Heights Counseling Services
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I know when looking for counseling the process can seem daunting. You have to worry about specializations, openings, the time it will take to get to and from the appointment, not to mention the appointment itself. At New Heights we focus on making the process as easy as possible, from helping connect you to the best clinician within the practice to providing the most advanced treatment options we can. You matter and we want to help you achieve not just your mental health goals but making joy a part of your life.
I know when looking for counseling the process can seem daunting. You have to worry about specializations, openings, the time it will take to get to and from the appointment, not to mention the appointment itself. At New Heights we focus on making the process as easy as possible, from helping connect you to the best clinician within the practice to providing the most advanced treatment options we can. You matter and we want to help you achieve not just your mental health goals but making joy a part of your life.
(614) 957-2645 View (614) 957-2645
Photo of Kevin Jaworski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Kevin Jaworski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist specializing in OCD, I understand the pain and futility that accompanies chronic overthinking and the difficulty of being mired in the same unhelpful behaviors and emotions. I understand the bewilderment of not knowing what could help, as well as the frustration of knowing, yet still feeling unable to move forward. We want agency over ourselves and our lives, but we also want to be able to let go of that which is out of our control. While I put no timetable on recovery, my hope for my clients is that they come to a place where they feel like they no longer need my services.
As a therapist specializing in OCD, I understand the pain and futility that accompanies chronic overthinking and the difficulty of being mired in the same unhelpful behaviors and emotions. I understand the bewilderment of not knowing what could help, as well as the frustration of knowing, yet still feeling unable to move forward. We want agency over ourselves and our lives, but we also want to be able to let go of that which is out of our control. While I put no timetable on recovery, my hope for my clients is that they come to a place where they feel like they no longer need my services.
(440) 271-8276 View (440) 271-8276
Photo of Holly Graham, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Holly Graham
Counselor, LPCC, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
For over 10 years, I have worked alongside individuals encountering issues with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, life adjustments, and stress. Working in collaboration with clients, I seek to empower them to work through uncomfortable experiences and achieve their goals. I strive to help individuals find, develop, and utilize their strengths in order to face the issues of their lives directly, with compassion, and without self-judgement.
For over 10 years, I have worked alongside individuals encountering issues with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, self-esteem, life adjustments, and stress. Working in collaboration with clients, I seek to empower them to work through uncomfortable experiences and achieve their goals. I strive to help individuals find, develop, and utilize their strengths in order to face the issues of their lives directly, with compassion, and without self-judgement.
(614) 426-0076 View (614) 426-0076
Photo of Nichole Redic, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Nichole Redic
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, PCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am here to help you navigate through life's difficult circumstances. When you find yourself traveling down a path that is filled with stress, worry, pain, and/or grief, I will help you identify and draw on your strengths. You may not enjoy the things that used to make you smile. Perhaps, you are facing a family challenge that sparks ongoing conflict and tension. What ever you are experiencing, don't go through it alone! Allow me to partner with you to capture lost joy, build healthy relationships, and grow personally.
I am here to help you navigate through life's difficult circumstances. When you find yourself traveling down a path that is filled with stress, worry, pain, and/or grief, I will help you identify and draw on your strengths. You may not enjoy the things that used to make you smile. Perhaps, you are facing a family challenge that sparks ongoing conflict and tension. What ever you are experiencing, don't go through it alone! Allow me to partner with you to capture lost joy, build healthy relationships, and grow personally.
(614) 802-5717 View (614) 802-5717
Photo of Carol E McClure, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Carol E McClure
Counselor, MACMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I have extensive training and over 30 years of experience working with adult survivors of childhood abuse and pregnancy loss, including abortion. I hold an MA in Mental Health Clinical Counseling and have completed the Jungian Professional Psychotherapy program with the CG Jung Institute of Chicago. Additionally, I work with couples using the Gottman Method to strengthen relationships and deal with underlying issues. I also hold a certification for coaching with the Enneagram. Recently, my husband and I celebrated 44 years of marriage.
I have extensive training and over 30 years of experience working with adult survivors of childhood abuse and pregnancy loss, including abortion. I hold an MA in Mental Health Clinical Counseling and have completed the Jungian Professional Psychotherapy program with the CG Jung Institute of Chicago. Additionally, I work with couples using the Gottman Method to strengthen relationships and deal with underlying issues. I also hold a certification for coaching with the Enneagram. Recently, my husband and I celebrated 44 years of marriage.
(614) 980-0093 View (614) 980-0093

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
71% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Self Esteem
65% Grief
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
75% Optum
69% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

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.