Therapists in Benton City, WA

Photo of M Susan Vann, Psychologist in Benton City, WA
M Susan Vann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Benton City, WA 99320  (Online Only)
My clients come into therapy me with a wide range of issues often related to anxiety, depression, family stress, interpersonal conflicts, work/life balance stresses, parenting concerns, aging stresses, and a host of other concerns. Some individuals just need to talk their issues out for a few sessions. Others are seeking someone to walk through a longer period of time with them to address long-term, ongoing issues. Life comes with many challenges. Sometimes it is difficult to see the way through those challenges. I believe that all of us have the power to meet and overcome the challenges we face.
My clients come into therapy me with a wide range of issues often related to anxiety, depression, family stress, interpersonal conflicts, work/life balance stresses, parenting concerns, aging stresses, and a host of other concerns. Some individuals just need to talk their issues out for a few sessions. Others are seeking someone to walk through a longer period of time with them to address long-term, ongoing issues. Life comes with many challenges. Sometimes it is difficult to see the way through those challenges. I believe that all of us have the power to meet and overcome the challenges we face.
(509) 713-1988 View (509) 713-1988
Photo of Melani Gutierrez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton City, WA
Melani Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Benton City, WA 99320
Making the choice to trust and work with someone in a therapeutic setting can be one of the scariest, but most rewarding decisions a person can make. If you find yourself here, you may be considering a journey towards long-lasting and significant change. In each stage of life, there are unique challenges that can impact your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical health. Lack of support, encouragement, and community can make these challenges unbearable. My role is to utilize my training to provide unconditional positive regard, encouragement, and safety in overcoming barriers and discovering effective solutions, together.
Making the choice to trust and work with someone in a therapeutic setting can be one of the scariest, but most rewarding decisions a person can make. If you find yourself here, you may be considering a journey towards long-lasting and significant change. In each stage of life, there are unique challenges that can impact your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical health. Lack of support, encouragement, and community can make these challenges unbearable. My role is to utilize my training to provide unconditional positive regard, encouragement, and safety in overcoming barriers and discovering effective solutions, together.
(509) 553-0287 View (509) 553-0287
Photo of Kelly Woodward Core, Counselor in Benton City, WA
Kelly Woodward Core
Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHC, CPLC, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Benton City, WA 99320
Note: ( Please Email To Contact). Typically one seeks therapy when feeling sad, worried or stuck in an unpleasant life situation. You may be unable to control undesirable personal habits, engaging in unhealthy love relationships, or repeating destructive behaviors. Perhaps you find yourself constantly worrying about different things or the future finding it difficult to move on from painful past experiences. My passion is working with women struggling with fertility, pregnant, postpartum, peri/postmenopausal; college students, life transitions,
Note: ( Please Email To Contact). Typically one seeks therapy when feeling sad, worried or stuck in an unpleasant life situation. You may be unable to control undesirable personal habits, engaging in unhealthy love relationships, or repeating destructive behaviors. Perhaps you find yourself constantly worrying about different things or the future finding it difficult to move on from painful past experiences. My passion is working with women struggling with fertility, pregnant, postpartum, peri/postmenopausal; college students, life transitions,
(509) 204-8930 View (509) 204-8930

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shar Kunovsky, Counselor in Benton City, WA
Shar Kunovsky
Counselor, JD, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352  (Online Only)
**NEW CLIENTS - Please email me** No one deserves to live in pain. For therapy to work, you need three things: curiosity about yourself and your interactions with others, an authentic connection with your therapist, and concrete, practical tools and skills to promote real and lasting change. My job is to facilitate an understanding of what is causing you pain and getting in your way of creating your best life. As your therapist, I don’t “just listen.” I use an integrative approach, combining several modalities to create the most effective treatment for each client. I practice remote therapy with individual adults.
**NEW CLIENTS - Please email me** No one deserves to live in pain. For therapy to work, you need three things: curiosity about yourself and your interactions with others, an authentic connection with your therapist, and concrete, practical tools and skills to promote real and lasting change. My job is to facilitate an understanding of what is causing you pain and getting in your way of creating your best life. As your therapist, I don’t “just listen.” I use an integrative approach, combining several modalities to create the most effective treatment for each client. I practice remote therapy with individual adults.
(425) 264-8713 View (425) 264-8713
Photo of Brandy Counseling PLLC, Counselor in Benton City, WA
Brandy Counseling PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richland, WA 99352  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is of my personal belief that within most of us lies the resources to live a happy life. Unfortunately, things such as trauma, environmental stressors, or a lack of skills can get in the way of our ability to access these resources. Think of the last time you felt an overwhelming sense of peace, whether that be while soaking in a beautiful scenery, or watching children play. This "peace," or what I call "True Self," is within all of us.
It is of my personal belief that within most of us lies the resources to live a happy life. Unfortunately, things such as trauma, environmental stressors, or a lack of skills can get in the way of our ability to access these resources. Think of the last time you felt an overwhelming sense of peace, whether that be while soaking in a beautiful scenery, or watching children play. This "peace," or what I call "True Self," is within all of us.
(509) 492-1108 View (509) 492-1108
Photo of Fernando Rios, Counselor in Benton City, WA
Fernando Rios
Counselor, PLC
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352
My Counseling Approach is based on a professional, honest, and consistent relationship with my clients. Through Cognitive Therapy clients will learn how to develop coping skills to live and enjoy a better quality of life. Clients will also learn how to accept and embrace life's turning points and become empowered to lead a more positive and productive life.
My Counseling Approach is based on a professional, honest, and consistent relationship with my clients. Through Cognitive Therapy clients will learn how to develop coping skills to live and enjoy a better quality of life. Clients will also learn how to accept and embrace life's turning points and become empowered to lead a more positive and productive life.
(509) 392-7717 View (509) 392-7717
Photo of Cecilia D Garza, Counselor in Benton City, WA
Cecilia D Garza
Counselor, LMHCA, LICSWA, M Ed, MSSW
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352
My therapeutic approach is to help clients return to stable or normal functioning. I believe in empowering clients and providing individual person-centered care. Also, to facilitate realistic expectations and hope in clients that positive change is possible but does not occur in a linear process of straight-line successes. There will be triumphs and tribulations, progress, and setbacks. I will emphasize a healing process that involves growth, learning from advances as well as setbacks, and staying the course toward restoration and recovery. I will also convey to clients that I will stay the course with them.
My therapeutic approach is to help clients return to stable or normal functioning. I believe in empowering clients and providing individual person-centered care. Also, to facilitate realistic expectations and hope in clients that positive change is possible but does not occur in a linear process of straight-line successes. There will be triumphs and tribulations, progress, and setbacks. I will emphasize a healing process that involves growth, learning from advances as well as setbacks, and staying the course toward restoration and recovery. I will also convey to clients that I will stay the course with them.
(509) 978-6132 View (509) 978-6132
Photo of Maddison Capri Meijome, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton City, WA
Maddison Capri Meijome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richland, WA 99352
My specialities include individuals with ADHD and women in pregnancy and postpartum stages of life. Many of my clients with ADHD struggle with focus, time management, emotion regulation, and relationships. Their strengths include creativity and drive, but often lack the skills and focus to accomplish their highest aspirations. They also can struggle with friendships and romantic relationships and can make simple adjustments to improve social skills and feel more fulfilled socially. My pregnant and postpartum client often struggle to adjust to new parenting life and are looking or compassionate support as they settle into parenthood.
My specialities include individuals with ADHD and women in pregnancy and postpartum stages of life. Many of my clients with ADHD struggle with focus, time management, emotion regulation, and relationships. Their strengths include creativity and drive, but often lack the skills and focus to accomplish their highest aspirations. They also can struggle with friendships and romantic relationships and can make simple adjustments to improve social skills and feel more fulfilled socially. My pregnant and postpartum client often struggle to adjust to new parenting life and are looking or compassionate support as they settle into parenthood.
(509) 732-9024 View (509) 732-9024
Photo of Jason Chastain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton City, WA
Jason Chastain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD, CCTP-II, GC-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richland, WA 99352
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes things happen in our lives that we can't seem to get over, no matter how much we try. This really affects the quality of life, and is called trauma. I specialize in treating trauma and grief issues using EMDR therapy. I am trained to treat PTSD, complex PTSD, and dissociation. My second specialization is as a trained grief counselor. I can help you get out of your head and back into your life. My clients are motivated, willing to try new things, and they want to feel better. I've helped hundreds of others meet these goals, and I can help you. Clients who take that first step to come see me get results. Let's get started!
Sometimes things happen in our lives that we can't seem to get over, no matter how much we try. This really affects the quality of life, and is called trauma. I specialize in treating trauma and grief issues using EMDR therapy. I am trained to treat PTSD, complex PTSD, and dissociation. My second specialization is as a trained grief counselor. I can help you get out of your head and back into your life. My clients are motivated, willing to try new things, and they want to feel better. I've helped hundreds of others meet these goals, and I can help you. Clients who take that first step to come see me get results. Let's get started!
(509) 761-3821 View (509) 761-3821
Photo of Madora Sadler LMHC/White Stone Counseling, Counselor in Benton City, WA
Madora Sadler LMHC/White Stone Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
West Richland, WA 99353
Accepting patients - Employees of the Richland & Pasco School Districts EAP benefits. I look forward to helping you discover how to live life in harmony with your values. I trust my clients as experts in their own life, and I'm confident our work together will help you identify, resolve, and accept life's challenges. My primary theoretical orientation is ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). I have 15 years experience as a counselor working with teens, families, individual adults, and children. I am not currently billing insurance companies.
Accepting patients - Employees of the Richland & Pasco School Districts EAP benefits. I look forward to helping you discover how to live life in harmony with your values. I trust my clients as experts in their own life, and I'm confident our work together will help you identify, resolve, and accept life's challenges. My primary theoretical orientation is ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). I have 15 years experience as a counselor working with teens, families, individual adults, and children. I am not currently billing insurance companies.
(509) 566-4571 View (509) 566-4571
Photo of Tera Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton City, WA
Tera Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richland, WA 99352
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking support can be a vulnerable and challenging journey. As a compassionate psychotherapist, my priority is to provide a safe space to explore what is most important to you. Together, we will navigate life’s obstacles with empathy & understanding, uncovering the root causes of challenges experienced. Through a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, we will work collaboratively to address negative patterns & perceptions, paving the way for a more fulfilling & meaningful life.
Seeking support can be a vulnerable and challenging journey. As a compassionate psychotherapist, my priority is to provide a safe space to explore what is most important to you. Together, we will navigate life’s obstacles with empathy & understanding, uncovering the root causes of challenges experienced. Through a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, we will work collaboratively to address negative patterns & perceptions, paving the way for a more fulfilling & meaningful life.
Photo of Heather Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton City, WA
Heather Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CMHS
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352
Most of my clinical career has been serving juvenile justice involved, incarcerated youthful offenders with significant mental health needs. I am able to quickly build relationships and begin working towards change. I recognize that when a person is seeking help it isn't their best day or period of time in their life. No matter your history or what you may have to share, I am ready to assist. I will treat you with the utmost of respect and in a confidential manner. My goal is to always send you out the door feeling better than when you came in.
Most of my clinical career has been serving juvenile justice involved, incarcerated youthful offenders with significant mental health needs. I am able to quickly build relationships and begin working towards change. I recognize that when a person is seeking help it isn't their best day or period of time in their life. No matter your history or what you may have to share, I am ready to assist. I will treat you with the utmost of respect and in a confidential manner. My goal is to always send you out the door feeling better than when you came in.
(509) 774-5856 View (509) 774-5856
Photo of Valerie Griffin Therapy, Mental Health Counselor in Benton City, WA
Valerie Griffin Therapy
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome, I'm Valerie. I treat individuals with OCD, trauma, and anxiety disorders. I bring hope and optimism to every session, as therapy is truly my passion. I'll be your teammate from consultation to final session and select the best research-backed treatment to help you recover and thrive.
Hello and welcome, I'm Valerie. I treat individuals with OCD, trauma, and anxiety disorders. I bring hope and optimism to every session, as therapy is truly my passion. I'll be your teammate from consultation to final session and select the best research-backed treatment to help you recover and thrive.
(509) 519-4059 View (509) 519-4059
Photo of Max Kovatch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton City, WA
Max Kovatch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Richland, WA 99353
**AS OF 04/23/2024: CURRENTLY ACCEPTING A FEW NEW CLIENTS** Trying to focus on one task at a time can be challenging and sometimes boring. Emotions then take over and you find ways to release that tension in a negative way. During this time, it can cause conflict between family members, peers, and/or significant others. These negative thoughts/actions are easy to express and obvious strengths are pushed to the side. Having someone who has gone through this personally/professionally can provide active solutions, which can help develop a sense of ease and comfort within the family and individual.
**AS OF 04/23/2024: CURRENTLY ACCEPTING A FEW NEW CLIENTS** Trying to focus on one task at a time can be challenging and sometimes boring. Emotions then take over and you find ways to release that tension in a negative way. During this time, it can cause conflict between family members, peers, and/or significant others. These negative thoughts/actions are easy to express and obvious strengths are pushed to the side. Having someone who has gone through this personally/professionally can provide active solutions, which can help develop a sense of ease and comfort within the family and individual.
(509) 233-4268 View (509) 233-4268
Photo of Shannon L Schliep, Counselor in Benton City, WA
Shannon L Schliep
Counselor, LMHC, MEd, NBCC
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health counselor, committed to providing support, guidance, and empowerment to individuals with various mental health challenges. With over 20 years of experience, my practice focuses on creating a safe and nurturing space for healing and skill development. I work with clients spanning from 8 years old to young adulthood, addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, life stressors, parenting, divorce, grief and loss, women's issues, and other concerns.
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health counselor, committed to providing support, guidance, and empowerment to individuals with various mental health challenges. With over 20 years of experience, my practice focuses on creating a safe and nurturing space for healing and skill development. I work with clients spanning from 8 years old to young adulthood, addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, life stressors, parenting, divorce, grief and loss, women's issues, and other concerns.
(425) 640-7009 x9546 View (425) 640-7009 x9546
Photo of Heidi Nolan, Counselor in Benton City, WA
Heidi Nolan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richland, WA 99354
Not accepting new clients
You feel so deeply that it’s difficult for you to not feel overwhelmed when faced with decisions. You also feel the need to take every other person's feelings into account, often at your own expense. You have done this for as long as you can remember, and now you’re in a place where you find it challenging to know what it is that you actually want. You regularly feel a sense of loneliness when it feels as though others don’t consider you in the same way. You struggle to find that balance between work and your personal life as it seems the stress of work constantly follows you home.
You feel so deeply that it’s difficult for you to not feel overwhelmed when faced with decisions. You also feel the need to take every other person's feelings into account, often at your own expense. You have done this for as long as you can remember, and now you’re in a place where you find it challenging to know what it is that you actually want. You regularly feel a sense of loneliness when it feels as though others don’t consider you in the same way. You struggle to find that balance between work and your personal life as it seems the stress of work constantly follows you home.
(509) 550-7614 View (509) 550-7614
Photo of iMPACT! Compassion Center, Counselor in Benton City, WA
iMPACT! Compassion Center
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352
22 years of counseling and social work experience. I look at the whole person, including; their childhood experiences, past trauma, relationships, family systems/family/support systems, health and wellness, lifestyle, choices, life skills, stress management, healthy outlets, communication, self-awareness, life-balance, values and beliefs, financial, self-care, and other influences. This holistic approach provides the best understanding of your needs, barriers, and goals you want to achieve through therapy, and offer the most effective outcomes.
22 years of counseling and social work experience. I look at the whole person, including; their childhood experiences, past trauma, relationships, family systems/family/support systems, health and wellness, lifestyle, choices, life skills, stress management, healthy outlets, communication, self-awareness, life-balance, values and beliefs, financial, self-care, and other influences. This holistic approach provides the best understanding of your needs, barriers, and goals you want to achieve through therapy, and offer the most effective outcomes.
(509) 563-7786 View (509) 563-7786
Photo of Erin Leigh Sharma, Counselor in Benton City, WA
Erin Leigh Sharma
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richland, WA 99352
Not accepting new clients
Let me assist you on your therapeutic healing journey. I can help with finding your pathway to freedom in expression and helping to resolve patterns that keep us from living the life we deserve and desire. I am a person-centered therapist that pulls from many different approaches to meet you where you need to be met. I do believe that the relationship we create in therapy is the foundation for all transformation that will occur. I would feel very privileged to be witness and hold the space for your healing. I look forward to speaking to you soon.
Let me assist you on your therapeutic healing journey. I can help with finding your pathway to freedom in expression and helping to resolve patterns that keep us from living the life we deserve and desire. I am a person-centered therapist that pulls from many different approaches to meet you where you need to be met. I do believe that the relationship we create in therapy is the foundation for all transformation that will occur. I would feel very privileged to be witness and hold the space for your healing. I look forward to speaking to you soon.
(509) 774-3310 View (509) 774-3310
Photo of Dr. Jessica L Long, Psychologist in Benton City, WA
Dr. Jessica L Long
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99352
I consider it my privilege to join individuals and families on their journeys towards wellness! My approach is supportive, collaborative, and often emphasizes development of skills and enhancement of already-present skills (e.g., coping, conflict resolution, parenting). I consider humor an essential ingredient! I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults, in a variety of settings such as outpatient, inpatient, and residential, and have prior experience in CPS and adoption services.
I consider it my privilege to join individuals and families on their journeys towards wellness! My approach is supportive, collaborative, and often emphasizes development of skills and enhancement of already-present skills (e.g., coping, conflict resolution, parenting). I consider humor an essential ingredient! I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults, in a variety of settings such as outpatient, inpatient, and residential, and have prior experience in CPS and adoption services.
(509) 774-3880 View (509) 774-3880
Photo of Enterprise Behavior Analysis in Benton City, WA
Enterprise Behavior Analysis
LBA, MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Richland, WA 99354
Hi! My name is Jess Hale, and I am a BCBA who provides Applied Behavior Analysis therapy. ABA is effective for teaching children new skills, especially those who are experiencing some type of developmental delay. Such children may struggle to communicate their wants and needs, play appropriately with other children, try new foods, or complete everyday self-care tasks. ABA is also effective at reducing problem behaviors in children, such as aggression, self-injury, property destruction, and excessive tantrums. Whenever possible, I like to use an assent- and play-based approach to keep the experience fun and positive for your child.
Hi! My name is Jess Hale, and I am a BCBA who provides Applied Behavior Analysis therapy. ABA is effective for teaching children new skills, especially those who are experiencing some type of developmental delay. Such children may struggle to communicate their wants and needs, play appropriately with other children, try new foods, or complete everyday self-care tasks. ABA is also effective at reducing problem behaviors in children, such as aggression, self-injury, property destruction, and excessive tantrums. Whenever possible, I like to use an assent- and play-based approach to keep the experience fun and positive for your child.
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Benton City, WA

< 10

Therapists in Benton City, WA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Self Esteem
100% Women's Issues
100% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

19 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Aetna
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Benton City, WA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Benton City?

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.