Therapists in Golden, CO

Photo of Annie Silverwood in Golden, CO
Annie Silverwood
MSN, FNP
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401
Is your weight affecting your mental and physical health? Often, reaching a healthy weight can feel impossible despite our best efforts, damaging our confidence and relationship with our body. Effectively managing your weight can help reduce your risk of chronic illnesses such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, while positively impacting your emotional well-being.
Is your weight affecting your mental and physical health? Often, reaching a healthy weight can feel impossible despite our best efforts, damaging our confidence and relationship with our body. Effectively managing your weight can help reduce your risk of chronic illnesses such as hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, while positively impacting your emotional well-being.
(720) 893-9193 View (720) 893-9193
Photo of Brief Therapy Institute of Denver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Golden, CO
Brief Therapy Institute of Denver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401
Clients seek counseling with me for struggles that they are experiencing with depression, anxiety, anger, relationships and transition periods in their lives. I provide them with specific skills and techniques to manage their distress more effectively. My treatment is solution-focused, short-term in nature, and many clients return to me intermittently for times that they get stuck in old and unproductive patterns.
Clients seek counseling with me for struggles that they are experiencing with depression, anxiety, anger, relationships and transition periods in their lives. I provide them with specific skills and techniques to manage their distress more effectively. My treatment is solution-focused, short-term in nature, and many clients return to me intermittently for times that they get stuck in old and unproductive patterns.
(720) 702-1391 View (720) 702-1391
Photo of Jeannine Greyer, Registered Psychotherapist in Golden, CO
Jeannine Greyer
Registered Psychotherapist, EdS
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401
As a school psychologist working in the public schools for over ten years, I created Kids Connection to provide a variety of services to children and their families in a private, safe and welcoming environment. I address many areas of need including emotional regulation, anxiety, depression and behavioral challenges. I address these needs through a variety of formats including individual therapy, group therapy, parent workshops, behavioral consultations, and life-skills sessions. I specialize in working with children ages 5-17 with academic, social or behavioral challenges. I also have specific experience working with gifted and talented children and their unique mental health needs.
As a school psychologist working in the public schools for over ten years, I created Kids Connection to provide a variety of services to children and their families in a private, safe and welcoming environment. I address many areas of need including emotional regulation, anxiety, depression and behavioral challenges. I address these needs through a variety of formats including individual therapy, group therapy, parent workshops, behavioral consultations, and life-skills sessions. I specialize in working with children ages 5-17 with academic, social or behavioral challenges. I also have specific experience working with gifted and talented children and their unique mental health needs.
(720) 724-9512 View (720) 724-9512
Photo of Christina Oshier Andrews, Licensed Professional Counselor in Golden, CO
Christina Oshier Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80403
I love the process of getting to know clients and their individual goals. Together we create a plan to address changes you want to see. I help facilitate understanding of how early experiences impact your adult relationships, your nervous system and symptoms you may experience today. I have a warm, collaborative style and strive to be transparent in my work, so that clients feel empowered with new knowledge and skills. I particularly enjoy working with altered states of consciousness and spirituality, helping clients have better relationships, and working with other health and psychology professionals.
I love the process of getting to know clients and their individual goals. Together we create a plan to address changes you want to see. I help facilitate understanding of how early experiences impact your adult relationships, your nervous system and symptoms you may experience today. I have a warm, collaborative style and strive to be transparent in my work, so that clients feel empowered with new knowledge and skills. I particularly enjoy working with altered states of consciousness and spirituality, helping clients have better relationships, and working with other health and psychology professionals.
(720) 706-2460 View (720) 706-2460
Photo of Michele Ater, Licensed Professional Counselor in Golden, CO
Michele Ater
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, TFT, CCHt
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401
My practice focuses on trauma, anxiety, and depression. We work holistically with your mind (thoughts), body (nutrition/exercise) and spirituality (energy/meditation). I have a very safe and comforting office environment. Let’s get you on the path to mindful growth and inner peace. I really look forward in working with you. I now specialize in KAT-Ketamine Assisted Therapy and PAT-Psychedelic Assisted Therapy for PTSD, Treatment resistant depression, addictions and chronic pain. Email for information. owcmichele gmail.com
My practice focuses on trauma, anxiety, and depression. We work holistically with your mind (thoughts), body (nutrition/exercise) and spirituality (energy/meditation). I have a very safe and comforting office environment. Let’s get you on the path to mindful growth and inner peace. I really look forward in working with you. I now specialize in KAT-Ketamine Assisted Therapy and PAT-Psychedelic Assisted Therapy for PTSD, Treatment resistant depression, addictions and chronic pain. Email for information. owcmichele gmail.com
(720) 903-3830 View (720) 903-3830
Photo of Ted Gomez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Golden, CO
Ted Gomez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401
What do you want your life to stand for? What holds you back? What thoughts, memories or experiences are gripping you like a weight and pulling you down or keeping you from doing the things that matter most in this life? Whether you are a child or an adult, each of these questions has meaning. As living, breathing and feeling human beings we go through this "Life" journey encountering and experiencing many glimpses of happiness, as well as, tastes of struggle. These experiences in our "Life" journey are shared from childhood to old age.
What do you want your life to stand for? What holds you back? What thoughts, memories or experiences are gripping you like a weight and pulling you down or keeping you from doing the things that matter most in this life? Whether you are a child or an adult, each of these questions has meaning. As living, breathing and feeling human beings we go through this "Life" journey encountering and experiencing many glimpses of happiness, as well as, tastes of struggle. These experiences in our "Life" journey are shared from childhood to old age.
(303) 647-4345 View (303) 647-4345
Photo of Erin Dooley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Golden, CO
Erin Dooley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401
I know that it takes bravery to reach out and ask for help. I provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental environment to decrease stress and anxiety in the therapeutic process. During our initial session, I will work with you to determine your specific goals and how I can assist in reaching these goals. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and mental health. My job as a clinician is to guide you towards the wisdom that already exists within you. I am honored each and every time a client chooses to tell me their story.
I know that it takes bravery to reach out and ask for help. I provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental environment to decrease stress and anxiety in the therapeutic process. During our initial session, I will work with you to determine your specific goals and how I can assist in reaching these goals. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and mental health. My job as a clinician is to guide you towards the wisdom that already exists within you. I am honored each and every time a client chooses to tell me their story.
(833) 963-2733 View (833) 963-2733
Photo of Jackie Paslay, Counselor in Golden, CO
Jackie Paslay
Counselor, MA, LPC-C, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
My therapeutic style is an integrated approach. I focus on building the therapeutic alliance and relationship by first practicing Person Centered Therapy which will ultimately evolve into practicing a variety of modalities that best resonate with you and what will best help you accomplish your therapeutic goals. Other modalities that might be a part of the therapy plan with me include, but are not limited to,: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy (NT), Motivational Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Creative Arts Therapy: Art, Nature, Play, Somatic Therapy, Gestalt & more.
My therapeutic style is an integrated approach. I focus on building the therapeutic alliance and relationship by first practicing Person Centered Therapy which will ultimately evolve into practicing a variety of modalities that best resonate with you and what will best help you accomplish your therapeutic goals. Other modalities that might be a part of the therapy plan with me include, but are not limited to,: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy (NT), Motivational Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Creative Arts Therapy: Art, Nature, Play, Somatic Therapy, Gestalt & more.
(720) 893-9795 View (720) 893-9795
Photo of NeuroCraft Center LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Golden, CO
NeuroCraft Center LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ICP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
There are no "bad" clients. My ideal client is someone who has courage to heal. We can often say we want to change, but the fear of the "unknown" sometimes outweighs the motivation for actual change. I have shifted my approach to assisting in focusing on the motivation instead of changing. Our world is performance based, but I want your shifts to begin because they have been internal and sustaining. You can do this!
There are no "bad" clients. My ideal client is someone who has courage to heal. We can often say we want to change, but the fear of the "unknown" sometimes outweighs the motivation for actual change. I have shifted my approach to assisting in focusing on the motivation instead of changing. Our world is performance based, but I want your shifts to begin because they have been internal and sustaining. You can do this!
(720) 640-7522 View (720) 640-7522
Photo of Marissa Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Golden, CO
Marissa Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) with experience working with children, teens and their families. My therapeutic approach is grounded in compassion and understanding in order to create a judgment free zone, no matter the circumstance or situation. My passion is empowering children and teens by offering individualized support to help them overcome obstacles as they navigate through life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) with experience working with children, teens and their families. My therapeutic approach is grounded in compassion and understanding in order to create a judgment free zone, no matter the circumstance or situation. My passion is empowering children and teens by offering individualized support to help them overcome obstacles as they navigate through life.
(720) 802-4103 View (720) 802-4103
Photo of Camryn Joseph, Pre-Licensed Professional in Golden, CO
Camryn Joseph
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401
I’m so glad you’re here, and I want to acknowledge you for starting the process of looking for a therapist as I know it can feel overwhelming. I specialize in working with teens and adults who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions; as well as the perinatal population: including pre-conception, infertility, loss, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. I’m here to listen to your story, validate your emotions, normalize your experience, ask thoughtful questions and offer tools to uncover your inner knowing and wisdom.
I’m so glad you’re here, and I want to acknowledge you for starting the process of looking for a therapist as I know it can feel overwhelming. I specialize in working with teens and adults who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions; as well as the perinatal population: including pre-conception, infertility, loss, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. I’m here to listen to your story, validate your emotions, normalize your experience, ask thoughtful questions and offer tools to uncover your inner knowing and wisdom.
(303) 536-3360 View (303) 536-3360
Photo of Michelle Skiba, Marriage & Family Therapist in Golden, CO
Michelle Skiba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401
It is difficult to take that first step and ask for help, to find a connection in a trusted therapist. I offer a genuine and collaborative counseling environment for individuals, couples and families. If life's issues from everyday challenges to life changing events have become overwhelming, I want you to know that you are not alone. Or, if your relationship has lost that emotional connection, there may be a path toward re-discovery and new discovery. Our work can help you to understand the sources of your distress in ways that will allow you to think more clearly, feel more deeply, and manage your relationship more effectively.
It is difficult to take that first step and ask for help, to find a connection in a trusted therapist. I offer a genuine and collaborative counseling environment for individuals, couples and families. If life's issues from everyday challenges to life changing events have become overwhelming, I want you to know that you are not alone. Or, if your relationship has lost that emotional connection, there may be a path toward re-discovery and new discovery. Our work can help you to understand the sources of your distress in ways that will allow you to think more clearly, feel more deeply, and manage your relationship more effectively.
(303) 536-6071 View (303) 536-6071
Photo of Seth Tolbert, Pre-Licensed Professional in Golden, CO
Seth Tolbert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80403
Above all, you are welcome here. I offer a trauma-informed, kind, and non-judgmental approach for teen and adult individuals struggling with loneliness, shame, anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship troubles. Our struggles can often lead us to feel “broken,” or “wrong,” but I strongly hold that we are never broken or wrong, and instead see wounds that need compassion and healing. Together, we can explore your unique ability to grow from these struggles, and lead the happy, loving, and meaningful life you desire.
Above all, you are welcome here. I offer a trauma-informed, kind, and non-judgmental approach for teen and adult individuals struggling with loneliness, shame, anxiety, depression, anger, and relationship troubles. Our struggles can often lead us to feel “broken,” or “wrong,” but I strongly hold that we are never broken or wrong, and instead see wounds that need compassion and healing. Together, we can explore your unique ability to grow from these struggles, and lead the happy, loving, and meaningful life you desire.
(303) 578-1349 View (303) 578-1349
Photo of Sarah Barkley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Golden, CO
Sarah Barkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
I specialize in women-specific and older adolescent therapy. I have a strong background in treating trauma and PTSD. I am fully certified in EMDR. My therapeutic approach lends itself towards working with the client's whole system and outside providers whenever possible. I also frequently work with other therapists and "trauma professionals" (military, law enforcement, medical professionals, legal professionals, etc) who struggle at times seeing the beauty in the world beyond the intensity and struggle they're faced with in their jobs.
I specialize in women-specific and older adolescent therapy. I have a strong background in treating trauma and PTSD. I am fully certified in EMDR. My therapeutic approach lends itself towards working with the client's whole system and outside providers whenever possible. I also frequently work with other therapists and "trauma professionals" (military, law enforcement, medical professionals, legal professionals, etc) who struggle at times seeing the beauty in the world beyond the intensity and struggle they're faced with in their jobs.
(303) 957-7221 View (303) 957-7221
Photo of Teara Walters, Pre-Licensed Professional in Golden, CO
Teara Walters
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401  (Online Only)
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in empowering clients to transform their lives and recognize their inherent strength. Whether you are navigating ADHD, anxiety, life transitions, depression, relationship challenges, or other hurdles, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Working with individuals, couples, or families, I am committed to guiding you toward realizing your full potential and living your best life. I understand that each individual's journey is unique, which is why I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and preferences.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in empowering clients to transform their lives and recognize their inherent strength. Whether you are navigating ADHD, anxiety, life transitions, depression, relationship challenges, or other hurdles, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Working with individuals, couples, or families, I am committed to guiding you toward realizing your full potential and living your best life. I understand that each individual's journey is unique, which is why I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and preferences.
(833) 322-1863 View (833) 322-1863
Photo of Aaron Packingham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Golden, CO
Aaron Packingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
Families are facing so many challenges, and taking that step to seek outside help is vital and brave. Before looking for a therapist, you've likely striven to help your child or teen in other ways at home and school. My primary role as your child's therapist is to collaborate with you and your child/teen to clearly identify strengths and struggles, and come up with a game plan to build connection, confidence, and stability. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, DBT, and trauma-focused approaches that are proven to reduce depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflicts.
Families are facing so many challenges, and taking that step to seek outside help is vital and brave. Before looking for a therapist, you've likely striven to help your child or teen in other ways at home and school. My primary role as your child's therapist is to collaborate with you and your child/teen to clearly identify strengths and struggles, and come up with a game plan to build connection, confidence, and stability. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, DBT, and trauma-focused approaches that are proven to reduce depression, anxiety, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal conflicts.
(720) 740-2473 View (720) 740-2473
Photo of Natalie Cooney | Compass Healing Project, Marriage & Family Therapist in Golden, CO
Natalie Cooney | Compass Healing Project
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP, EMDR, PACT
Verified Verified
Golden, CO 80401
We are specialists in attachment, relationships, somatic therapy, and trauma resolution. Healing is possible! We offer sessions virtually and a limited number of in person sessions. By integrating body-mind work in a therapy session those with chronic overwhelm, anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, and relational triggers are able to find resolve, heal, and live in a deeper state of freedom & calm. Our attention to the whole person is an expression of our deep need for connection with all the parts of ourselves & connection with others.
We are specialists in attachment, relationships, somatic therapy, and trauma resolution. Healing is possible! We offer sessions virtually and a limited number of in person sessions. By integrating body-mind work in a therapy session those with chronic overwhelm, anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, and relational triggers are able to find resolve, heal, and live in a deeper state of freedom & calm. Our attention to the whole person is an expression of our deep need for connection with all the parts of ourselves & connection with others.
(720) 419-3550 View (720) 419-3550
Photo of Elizabeth L. Tupa, Psychologist in Golden, CO
Elizabeth L. Tupa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
Hi, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in relationship issues, couples therapy, depression, young adults, men's issues, and parenting issues. My work with individuals and couples focuses on recognizing unhelpful patterns and improving communication, self esteem, and life functioning. I'll work collaboratively with you to create a therapy plan unique to your needs and we'll probably share some laughs along the way!
Hi, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in relationship issues, couples therapy, depression, young adults, men's issues, and parenting issues. My work with individuals and couples focuses on recognizing unhelpful patterns and improving communication, self esteem, and life functioning. I'll work collaboratively with you to create a therapy plan unique to your needs and we'll probably share some laughs along the way!
(303) 351-5889 View (303) 351-5889
Photo of Jamie White, Licensed Professional Counselor in Golden, CO
Jamie White
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
So many women in nursing and healthcare professions get to a point in their career where they realize how exhausted and unsatisfied they are, and wonder if they're in the right place. Maybe your strategies for managing stress stopped working, you've missed a shift because of feeling overwhelmed, made a mistake because your brain is frazzled. Or you spend so much effort recovering from your last shift and preparing for the next one, that you aren't enjoying life and relationships. It's possible to feel inspired and fulfilled in the work you do, while also having a satisfying life outside of work.
So many women in nursing and healthcare professions get to a point in their career where they realize how exhausted and unsatisfied they are, and wonder if they're in the right place. Maybe your strategies for managing stress stopped working, you've missed a shift because of feeling overwhelmed, made a mistake because your brain is frazzled. Or you spend so much effort recovering from your last shift and preparing for the next one, that you aren't enjoying life and relationships. It's possible to feel inspired and fulfilled in the work you do, while also having a satisfying life outside of work.
(720) 863-4125 View (720) 863-4125
Photo of Kimberly Mallett, Psychologist in Golden, CO
Kimberly Mallett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Golden, CO 80401
Hello and welcome. I am Dr. Kimberly Mallett and I understand finding a therapist you feel comfortable working with is an important decision. I received a PhD in Clinical Psychology in 2005 and helping my clients improve their well-being is my priority. My goal is to support and guide you through challenges you face with the compassion and care you deserve. During our therapy sessions we will work to identify and resolve current problems and enhance positive thinking and behavior. Our work together will be collaborative and will aim to provide you with strategies to cope with life’s challenges.
Hello and welcome. I am Dr. Kimberly Mallett and I understand finding a therapist you feel comfortable working with is an important decision. I received a PhD in Clinical Psychology in 2005 and helping my clients improve their well-being is my priority. My goal is to support and guide you through challenges you face with the compassion and care you deserve. During our therapy sessions we will work to identify and resolve current problems and enhance positive thinking and behavior. Our work together will be collaborative and will aim to provide you with strategies to cope with life’s challenges.
(855) 889-1482 View (855) 889-1482

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Golden, CO

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Golden, CO who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
87% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Stress
69% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Golden, CO see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Golden?

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.