Therapists in Johnson City, TN

Photo of Aaron Free, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Aaron Free
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
I am a counselor that values the depth of human relationships. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions that can be summarized as somatic and attachment focused, relational, and mindful. All of these interventions are built off of the idea of present moment awareness. This means that I use each moment as potential for awareness into your inner experience. I spend time assisting each client in expanding their window of tolerance for discomfort as well as developing tools and techniques for structural changes. I am experienced working with general mental health concerns as well as what people identify as trauma and PTSD.
I am a counselor that values the depth of human relationships. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions that can be summarized as somatic and attachment focused, relational, and mindful. All of these interventions are built off of the idea of present moment awareness. This means that I use each moment as potential for awareness into your inner experience. I spend time assisting each client in expanding their window of tolerance for discomfort as well as developing tools and techniques for structural changes. I am experienced working with general mental health concerns as well as what people identify as trauma and PTSD.
(423) 353-9040 View (423) 353-9040
Photo of Amy McLaughlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Amy McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Waitlist for new clients
Is the past influencing your present life? I have discovered that so many of us have a hard time living in the present because of things from our past... or we struggle because we don't believe we are "good enough." I have been practicing for 13 years. I am trained in EMDR and believe everyone can grow, heal, and live fulfilling lives. My greatest joy is seeing my clients redefine who they are according to their values...Being able to be authentic. No longer confined to the pressures, ideals and expectations of others or shackled to the past.
Is the past influencing your present life? I have discovered that so many of us have a hard time living in the present because of things from our past... or we struggle because we don't believe we are "good enough." I have been practicing for 13 years. I am trained in EMDR and believe everyone can grow, heal, and live fulfilling lives. My greatest joy is seeing my clients redefine who they are according to their values...Being able to be authentic. No longer confined to the pressures, ideals and expectations of others or shackled to the past.
(423) 456-9008 View (423) 456-9008
Photo of Ginger Ketron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Ginger Ketron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604  (Online Only)
Ginger Ketron is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of experience working with children, adults, couples and families to overcome their unique barriers in life to improve their futures. She works to empower each patient with coping skills. She is passionate in assisting individuals in a family system to increase healthy boundaries and bonds that increase the success of their family. Ginger completed her MSW degree at East Tennessee State University where she was in the Advanced Standing Master's Program. She has worked with children and adults throughout her life who have or are dealing with effects of trauma.
Ginger Ketron is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of experience working with children, adults, couples and families to overcome their unique barriers in life to improve their futures. She works to empower each patient with coping skills. She is passionate in assisting individuals in a family system to increase healthy boundaries and bonds that increase the success of their family. Ginger completed her MSW degree at East Tennessee State University where she was in the Advanced Standing Master's Program. She has worked with children and adults throughout her life who have or are dealing with effects of trauma.
(423) 295-7486 View (423) 295-7486
Photo of Jodie Marie Henderson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Johnson City, TN
Jodie Marie Henderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCMHSP, (TEMP)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
I welcome all individuals on the path of exploration and healing, including children, teens, and adults. I have a passion for helping others and provide a trusting, non-judgmental, and safe space for others to tell their stories, slay their demons, and achieve their goals. We will work together at your pace on what is important to you. We will collaborate to address immediate symptoms and concerns as well as the underlying causes of the challenges you face, regardless of how insurmountable they may feel now.
I welcome all individuals on the path of exploration and healing, including children, teens, and adults. I have a passion for helping others and provide a trusting, non-judgmental, and safe space for others to tell their stories, slay their demons, and achieve their goals. We will work together at your pace on what is important to you. We will collaborate to address immediate symptoms and concerns as well as the underlying causes of the challenges you face, regardless of how insurmountable they may feel now.
(423) 818-9791 View (423) 818-9791
Photo of Jordan Ashley Lovetere, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Jordan Ashley Lovetere
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach starts with meeting people where they are in their journey through life. I believe in nourishing the inner child within all of us with empathy and kindness. People are the experts of their own lives and I am simply someone to help facilitate the change they wish to implement for themselves. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and young adults to empower them in understanding and accepting themselves and their changing emotions throughout life’s transitions. Movement is a universal language and through gentle curiosity and unconditional positive regard everyone has the ability to grow and thrive.
My therapeutic approach starts with meeting people where they are in their journey through life. I believe in nourishing the inner child within all of us with empathy and kindness. People are the experts of their own lives and I am simply someone to help facilitate the change they wish to implement for themselves. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and young adults to empower them in understanding and accepting themselves and their changing emotions throughout life’s transitions. Movement is a universal language and through gentle curiosity and unconditional positive regard everyone has the ability to grow and thrive.
(423) 818-9445 View (423) 818-9445
Photo of Stacey Shine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Stacey Shine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37615  (Online Only)
I enjoying working with clients who are ready to get back to their optimal level of functioning. We all get in ruts and go through hard times. My goal is to help my clients figure out how to gain skills to get past what they are going through currently and be able to tackle any issues in the future as well.
I enjoying working with clients who are ready to get back to their optimal level of functioning. We all get in ruts and go through hard times. My goal is to help my clients figure out how to gain skills to get past what they are going through currently and be able to tackle any issues in the future as well.
(423) 205-7099 View (423) 205-7099
Photo of Jennifer Maxson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Jennifer Maxson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Jennifer's philosophy is "one day, and one step at a time. " She works to create a welcoming and supportive therapeutic atmosphere, working in partnership with clients to help them define their challenges and create simple objectives on their path towards achieving their mental health goals. Jennifer takes a holistic overview with clients, helping them explore all facets of their life and environment as a means to understand and address areas of struggle. Her approach offers an inclusive, comfortable setting, taking each client's personal background and culture into consideration.
Jennifer's philosophy is "one day, and one step at a time. " She works to create a welcoming and supportive therapeutic atmosphere, working in partnership with clients to help them define their challenges and create simple objectives on their path towards achieving their mental health goals. Jennifer takes a holistic overview with clients, helping them explore all facets of their life and environment as a means to understand and address areas of struggle. Her approach offers an inclusive, comfortable setting, taking each client's personal background and culture into consideration.
(423) 456-9936 View (423) 456-9936
Photo of Angelia Bradley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Angelia Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604
I believe that everyone can discover and be their "best self"! We all may just need a little help sometime getting to that point. We cannot go back and change the past....but can only start from today, where we are right now, and create our best future! We will work together in discovering the obstacles that are in your path and create a plan to get you on the right path.
I believe that everyone can discover and be their "best self"! We all may just need a little help sometime getting to that point. We cannot go back and change the past....but can only start from today, where we are right now, and create our best future! We will work together in discovering the obstacles that are in your path and create a plan to get you on the right path.
(423) 301-5635 View (423) 301-5635
Photo of Emily R Miller, Pre-Licensed Professional in Johnson City, TN
Emily R Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37615
Are you tired of anxiety and depression overrunning your life? Do you want to experience freedom from your traumatic experiences? Are you hoping to break unhealthy patterns and improve your relationships? If so, I would love to work with you! I am Emily, a Licensed Master of Social Work who is passionate about partnering with teens and young adults as they work through experiences of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral concerns, addiction, relationship conflicts and more! What ever struggles you may be facing, I would love to partner with you to navigate it all.
Are you tired of anxiety and depression overrunning your life? Do you want to experience freedom from your traumatic experiences? Are you hoping to break unhealthy patterns and improve your relationships? If so, I would love to work with you! I am Emily, a Licensed Master of Social Work who is passionate about partnering with teens and young adults as they work through experiences of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, behavioral concerns, addiction, relationship conflicts and more! What ever struggles you may be facing, I would love to partner with you to navigate it all.
(423) 592-8196 View (423) 592-8196
Photo of Kelsey Maloney-Steiner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Kelsey Maloney-Steiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601  (Online Only)
Kelsey works with individuals, adolescents, and adults. She believes that we live in stories. It is through relationships, conversations, and stories that we create meaning in life. By examining the stories we tell ourselves, re-authoring them, and externalizing problems, then we can construct new and liberating stories. In counseling, Kelsey uses narrative therapy to engage with clients in the stories of their lives. She focuses on building an atmosphere of curiosity, respect, and transparency. She believes individuals matter, bearing witness to stories matters, and that individuals have strengths and the power to change.
Kelsey works with individuals, adolescents, and adults. She believes that we live in stories. It is through relationships, conversations, and stories that we create meaning in life. By examining the stories we tell ourselves, re-authoring them, and externalizing problems, then we can construct new and liberating stories. In counseling, Kelsey uses narrative therapy to engage with clients in the stories of their lives. She focuses on building an atmosphere of curiosity, respect, and transparency. She believes individuals matter, bearing witness to stories matters, and that individuals have strengths and the power to change.
(423) 345-8572 View (423) 345-8572
Photo of Lyndsey Jolley ⬝ Specialized Biblical Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Lyndsey Jolley ⬝ Specialized Biblical Counselor
MPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
ATTN Christian Women age 35+ in the marketplace or in ministry, caring for children, or retired. Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck? I serve clients online internationally and in-person locally. I am a Specialized Gospel-Centered Counselor and Coach with a focus on spiritual, emotional, and relational health — through life-giving connection with Christ and gospel-centered transformation. If you are need of clarity, peace, wisdom or healing, you are in the right place. My practice is based on the 13 years of personal RESULTS-BASED research. I am here to help you walk into real-life FREEDOM, healing, and victory in Christ.
ATTN Christian Women age 35+ in the marketplace or in ministry, caring for children, or retired. Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck? I serve clients online internationally and in-person locally. I am a Specialized Gospel-Centered Counselor and Coach with a focus on spiritual, emotional, and relational health — through life-giving connection with Christ and gospel-centered transformation. If you are need of clarity, peace, wisdom or healing, you are in the right place. My practice is based on the 13 years of personal RESULTS-BASED research. I am here to help you walk into real-life FREEDOM, healing, and victory in Christ.
(423) 301-5506 View (423) 301-5506
Photo of Caitlin Lucas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Caitlin Lucas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Are you ready and motivated for change? I am here to help. It is easy to get stuck in our patterns and find ourselves unsure of how to make a significant shift. I only ask that you are willing to push past the uncomfortable emotions and honestly face things standing in your way. I believe therapy is one of the only sacred spaces that exist where you can come, as you are, and work toward where you want to be. I also believe it is not my place to be an advice giver, but a teammate who can help you find your own way through.
Are you ready and motivated for change? I am here to help. It is easy to get stuck in our patterns and find ourselves unsure of how to make a significant shift. I only ask that you are willing to push past the uncomfortable emotions and honestly face things standing in your way. I believe therapy is one of the only sacred spaces that exist where you can come, as you are, and work toward where you want to be. I also believe it is not my place to be an advice giver, but a teammate who can help you find your own way through.
(423) 210-4921 View (423) 210-4921
Photo of Jordan Lovetere, Pre-Licensed Professional in Johnson City, TN
Jordan Lovetere
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Hi, I'm Jordan! I work with pre-teen and adolescent clients on telehealth. That means we can work through hard times in the comfort of your safe space. If you're local to Johnson City, I provide play therapy services to children ages 5 and up. I believe each person holds the answers to their own healing within themselves; it is through the therapeutic process that we can uncover them together. Through active listening techniques, I can help individuals gain greater insight into themselves so they can make lasting changes in their lives.
Hi, I'm Jordan! I work with pre-teen and adolescent clients on telehealth. That means we can work through hard times in the comfort of your safe space. If you're local to Johnson City, I provide play therapy services to children ages 5 and up. I believe each person holds the answers to their own healing within themselves; it is through the therapeutic process that we can uncover them together. Through active listening techniques, I can help individuals gain greater insight into themselves so they can make lasting changes in their lives.
(423) 564-5507 View (423) 564-5507
Photo of Elena Coello-Jemmali, Psychologist in Johnson City, TN
Elena Coello-Jemmali
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Find balance in your life with help from an experienced psychotherapist. Dr. Elena Coello-Jemmali uses a holistic approach, which helps clients from all walks of life overcome psychological, emotional, mental, physical, energetic, and spiritual challenges. She is dedicated to helping her clients achieve their highest potential and make wellness a way of life. while encouraging clients to take responsibility and making a commitment for their own healing. This unique Holistic approach addresses the mind, body and spiritual needs of the individual in their therapy to be able to identify and treat root-causes.
Find balance in your life with help from an experienced psychotherapist. Dr. Elena Coello-Jemmali uses a holistic approach, which helps clients from all walks of life overcome psychological, emotional, mental, physical, energetic, and spiritual challenges. She is dedicated to helping her clients achieve their highest potential and make wellness a way of life. while encouraging clients to take responsibility and making a commitment for their own healing. This unique Holistic approach addresses the mind, body and spiritual needs of the individual in their therapy to be able to identify and treat root-causes.
(423) 523-8835 View (423) 523-8835
Photo of Christine Steadman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Johnson City, TN
Christine Steadman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Not accepting new clients
I'm committed to empowering adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns, and trauma. Understanding the importance of the therapeutic relationship, I seek to understand clients' needs, concerns, goals, and history. As a certified yoga instructor, I incorporate techniques and exercises that address issues of the mind as well as trauma the body can hold. While sessions are tailored to the needs of each client, treatment focuses on addressing the individual holistically. I use various therapeutic styles that include Gestalt, cognitive behavioral, existential, and somatic.
I'm committed to empowering adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns, and trauma. Understanding the importance of the therapeutic relationship, I seek to understand clients' needs, concerns, goals, and history. As a certified yoga instructor, I incorporate techniques and exercises that address issues of the mind as well as trauma the body can hold. While sessions are tailored to the needs of each client, treatment focuses on addressing the individual holistically. I use various therapeutic styles that include Gestalt, cognitive behavioral, existential, and somatic.
(423) 205-7260 View (423) 205-7260
Photo of Katy Shuck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Katy Shuck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
It is so lovely to meet you! The minute you enter my office I will accept and EMBRACE you just as you are. We are humans. We are flawed, but beautifully flawed. I strongly believe healing begins with the therapeutic relationship and I will do my best to create a safe space for vulnerability. I am a therapist AND a social worker. I believe in holistic care that is tailored to the individual (s) as well as the power of networking, referrals, and continuity of care. I may challenge you to be the best version of yourself because you deserve the best that this short life has to offer.
It is so lovely to meet you! The minute you enter my office I will accept and EMBRACE you just as you are. We are humans. We are flawed, but beautifully flawed. I strongly believe healing begins with the therapeutic relationship and I will do my best to create a safe space for vulnerability. I am a therapist AND a social worker. I believe in holistic care that is tailored to the individual (s) as well as the power of networking, referrals, and continuity of care. I may challenge you to be the best version of yourself because you deserve the best that this short life has to offer.
(423) 436-1348 View (423) 436-1348
Photo of Whitewood Counseling & Consultation, Licensed Professional Counselor in Johnson City, TN
Whitewood Counseling & Consultation
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, MHSP, AS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
Contact me (email preferred) if you are seeking counseling services ... or ... looking for someone to provide supervision for LPC licensure.
Contact me (email preferred) if you are seeking counseling services ... or ... looking for someone to provide supervision for LPC licensure.
(423) 225-8536 View (423) 225-8536
Photo of Erika Fugere, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Erika Fugere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Hey there. Experiencing stress and anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of everyday life? Let's talk about it! I enjoy helping with parenting skills so you can escape the vicious cycle of yelling and the guilt that follows. Is being a parent impacting your relationships? Understandable if so! I enjoy teaching effective ways to communicate to build healthy relationships within families. I also have a passion for working with those who struggle with financial stress and helping individuals build a healthier relationship with money. My goal is to create a safe space for you to work through your struggles free of judgement.
Hey there. Experiencing stress and anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed by the pressure of everyday life? Let's talk about it! I enjoy helping with parenting skills so you can escape the vicious cycle of yelling and the guilt that follows. Is being a parent impacting your relationships? Understandable if so! I enjoy teaching effective ways to communicate to build healthy relationships within families. I also have a passion for working with those who struggle with financial stress and helping individuals build a healthier relationship with money. My goal is to create a safe space for you to work through your struggles free of judgement.
(423) 594-8102 View (423) 594-8102
Photo of Inspired Hope Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Johnson City, TN
Inspired Hope Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Are you experiencing memories of traumatic events that are impacting your life in a negative manner? Does it feel like the pain and self blame you are feeling will never go away? Are you struggling with feelings of hopelessness, grieving over the loss of a loved one, or experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
Are you experiencing memories of traumatic events that are impacting your life in a negative manner? Does it feel like the pain and self blame you are feeling will never go away? Are you struggling with feelings of hopelessness, grieving over the loss of a loved one, or experiencing difficulties in your relationships? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here.
(423) 482-8933 View (423) 482-8933
Photo of Pam Kuykendall, Pre-Licensed Professional in Johnson City, TN
Pam Kuykendall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Thank you for taking time to view my profile. Being a mental health care provider is a calling and a passion. Healing from the effects of trauma, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns, anxiety, and depression is possible. The healing journey is different for each person and I will patiently walk alongside my clients each step of the way. I also provide premarital counseling, family therapy, and have experience with parenting assistance and spiritual health.
Thank you for taking time to view my profile. Being a mental health care provider is a calling and a passion. Healing from the effects of trauma, perinatal and postpartum mental health concerns, anxiety, and depression is possible. The healing journey is different for each person and I will patiently walk alongside my clients each step of the way. I also provide premarital counseling, family therapy, and have experience with parenting assistance and spiritual health.
(423) 436-0401 View (423) 436-0401

See more therapy options for Johnson City

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Johnson City, TN

100+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in Johnson City, TN who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
83% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
65% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Cigna and Evernorth
75% Aetna
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Johnson City, TN see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Johnson 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.