Therapists in Ashland, OR

Photo of Shelby Hale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashland, OR
Shelby Hale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, QMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You're looking for a therapist! This is an exciting (and maybe slightly daunting) step in your growth and healing. By exploring this option for yourself, you’re moving closer towards taking your power back and prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being, and that’s huge! My role is to support you through this process of both unlearning the old patterns of thought and behavior that haven’t felt helpful to you, and learning new ways of navigating the world that allow you to feel connected and aligned.
You're looking for a therapist! This is an exciting (and maybe slightly daunting) step in your growth and healing. By exploring this option for yourself, you’re moving closer towards taking your power back and prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being, and that’s huge! My role is to support you through this process of both unlearning the old patterns of thought and behavior that haven’t felt helpful to you, and learning new ways of navigating the world that allow you to feel connected and aligned.
(541) 283-0431 View (541) 283-0431
Photo of Penny Herman, Counselor in Ashland, OR
Penny Herman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
I have been a Transformational Therapist for over 30 years with a holistic approach of mind/body/emotions/spirit.I provide a safe, compassionate environment to help you move through your personal challenges.You will receive many tools to assist you in feeling empowered to resolve any emotional problems or conflicts; i.e. Breathwork, Guided Imagery, Energy Work, Stress Release, Centering Exercises, Therapeutic Movement, Medicine Wheel Work, Sacred Card Readings, Compassionate Awareness, Non-Violent Communication, Pattern Interrupts and Reframing of Negative Programming. I work with both men and women in transition, as well as with people dealing with grief, loss, depression, stress or anxiety.
I have been a Transformational Therapist for over 30 years with a holistic approach of mind/body/emotions/spirit.I provide a safe, compassionate environment to help you move through your personal challenges.You will receive many tools to assist you in feeling empowered to resolve any emotional problems or conflicts; i.e. Breathwork, Guided Imagery, Energy Work, Stress Release, Centering Exercises, Therapeutic Movement, Medicine Wheel Work, Sacred Card Readings, Compassionate Awareness, Non-Violent Communication, Pattern Interrupts and Reframing of Negative Programming. I work with both men and women in transition, as well as with people dealing with grief, loss, depression, stress or anxiety.
(206) 981-3329 View (206) 981-3329
Photo of Craig Blackard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashland, OR
Craig Blackard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MM, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
I work with clients skillfully to safely facilitate access to their own natural wisdom. I work specifically to craft the interpersonal space that supports growth in my clients. You may feel somehow broken, incomplete, or even bewildered. I remember these feelings from my own experience of healing and I use these experiences and vulnerabilities to guide my work as a therapist. Though the relationship is based on unconditional acceptance, my clients undergo remarkable transformation. I provide the skills of expert listening, empathy, clear boundaries, and genuineness to my clients.
I work with clients skillfully to safely facilitate access to their own natural wisdom. I work specifically to craft the interpersonal space that supports growth in my clients. You may feel somehow broken, incomplete, or even bewildered. I remember these feelings from my own experience of healing and I use these experiences and vulnerabilities to guide my work as a therapist. Though the relationship is based on unconditional acceptance, my clients undergo remarkable transformation. I provide the skills of expert listening, empathy, clear boundaries, and genuineness to my clients.
(541) 516-1707 View (541) 516-1707
Photo of Peter Erickson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashland, OR
Peter Erickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about supporting adults getting unstuck from their inner burdens so they can 'live their why' more fully and thrive. I often support clients working in health & helping professions to release patterns of feeling overburdened and 'never enough.' Many of us are 'wounded healers' coping with inner struggles while caring for our world and working for righteous causes. Together, we can build immediate tools to cope with stress while also growing understanding of how past patterns may still be influencing your present difficulties. This helps release 'the old' and empower you with the tools to create a purposeful future.
I am passionate about supporting adults getting unstuck from their inner burdens so they can 'live their why' more fully and thrive. I often support clients working in health & helping professions to release patterns of feeling overburdened and 'never enough.' Many of us are 'wounded healers' coping with inner struggles while caring for our world and working for righteous causes. Together, we can build immediate tools to cope with stress while also growing understanding of how past patterns may still be influencing your present difficulties. This helps release 'the old' and empower you with the tools to create a purposeful future.
(541) 238-9378 View (541) 238-9378
Photo of Andrew Bertell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ashland, OR
Andrew Bertell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. A decision to face what ails and challenges us, to commit to growing and making more of our own happiness and fulfillment is a distinctly personal one. And it is one that I would be glad to partner in with you.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. A decision to face what ails and challenges us, to commit to growing and making more of our own happiness and fulfillment is a distinctly personal one. And it is one that I would be glad to partner in with you.
(541) 576-1319 View (541) 576-1319
Photo of Desiree Elizabeth Coutinho, Clinical Social Work Associate in Ashland, OR
Desiree Elizabeth Coutinho
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
I’m Desiree, a queer, woman of color therapist located in Southern Oregon. I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, helping them integrate past wounding, navigate fear, and cultivate acceptance. I am passionate about guiding clients through embodied grief processes, as a powerful tool for individual and collective healing and a way to reclaim our wellbeing. I work with all ages, but am especially interested in working with young adults, navigating anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health challenges related to living in uncertain times.
I’m Desiree, a queer, woman of color therapist located in Southern Oregon. I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, helping them integrate past wounding, navigate fear, and cultivate acceptance. I am passionate about guiding clients through embodied grief processes, as a powerful tool for individual and collective healing and a way to reclaim our wellbeing. I work with all ages, but am especially interested in working with young adults, navigating anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health challenges related to living in uncertain times.
(541) 834-9165 View (541) 834-9165
Photo of Camille Bianco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashland, OR
Camille Bianco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
Not accepting new clients
I help motivated adults learn and grow. My clients value personal growth and see it as connected to the greater good. People who are committed to creating more balance and fulfillment in their personal, relational, academic, and professional lives tend to benefit from my approach. They want to discover what thought and behavior patterns are holding them back and replace them with more effective practices. They expect to leave each session with at least one new insight and a homework assignment that aligns with their values and goals.
I help motivated adults learn and grow. My clients value personal growth and see it as connected to the greater good. People who are committed to creating more balance and fulfillment in their personal, relational, academic, and professional lives tend to benefit from my approach. They want to discover what thought and behavior patterns are holding them back and replace them with more effective practices. They expect to leave each session with at least one new insight and a homework assignment that aligns with their values and goals.
(541) 319-8327 View (541) 319-8327
Photo of Fern L Snogren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ashland, OR
Fern L Snogren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
I believe we each have a special part to play in the dance of life and that sometimes we need to put to rest old patterns or fears so we can respond to life in the most authentic way possible. If you find yourself stuck in limiting relational patterns, disconnected from yourself, depressed, anxious, fearful, confused, angry or in chronic physical pain, I can offer my 27 years of clinical experience, the safe space and carefully facilitated, deep, mindful, body-based exploration that will help you find your way home and engaging with your world more authentically and effectively.
I believe we each have a special part to play in the dance of life and that sometimes we need to put to rest old patterns or fears so we can respond to life in the most authentic way possible. If you find yourself stuck in limiting relational patterns, disconnected from yourself, depressed, anxious, fearful, confused, angry or in chronic physical pain, I can offer my 27 years of clinical experience, the safe space and carefully facilitated, deep, mindful, body-based exploration that will help you find your way home and engaging with your world more authentically and effectively.
(541) 526-7971 View (541) 526-7971
Photo of Marla Samuel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ashland, OR
Marla Samuel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
Waitlist for new clients
It is a great honor to travel alongside a person who has decided to embark upon a path of discovery, whether wanting to understand issues regarding relationships, what drives reactions, achieving growth and healing, coping with grief & loss, or the aging process. I believe that we are all capable of transforming old beliefs into new freedoms, and of moving beyond the patterns we have developed in the past as a response to our surroundings. If we choose to work together, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to help you achieve your goals.
It is a great honor to travel alongside a person who has decided to embark upon a path of discovery, whether wanting to understand issues regarding relationships, what drives reactions, achieving growth and healing, coping with grief & loss, or the aging process. I believe that we are all capable of transforming old beliefs into new freedoms, and of moving beyond the patterns we have developed in the past as a response to our surroundings. If we choose to work together, I am committed to working collaboratively with you to help you achieve your goals.
(541) 625-1894 View (541) 625-1894
Photo of Chris T Kovash, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashland, OR
Chris T Kovash
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
Currently accepting new clients. We promise to return all calls and emails and if FourEight isn't the right fit for your needs, help you identify a care approach that does, free of charge. We strive to be your partner on the path to wellness!
Currently accepting new clients. We promise to return all calls and emails and if FourEight isn't the right fit for your needs, help you identify a care approach that does, free of charge. We strive to be your partner on the path to wellness!
(541) 230-7509 View (541) 230-7509
Photo of Andrea Matteson in Ashland, OR
Andrea Matteson
MSEd, CLC, CHC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am Andrea, a Mental Health Coach. I work largely with professionals in Tech and Science navigating stress and anxiety. Coaching is a collaborative process tailored by your unique goals, centered on elevating mental and emotional well-being, as well as personal/professional development. It is proven effective for day to day life/professional challenges: managing stress, emotional overwhelm, decision making, relationship skills, communication, and work-life balance. Sessions may include exploring challenges, learning new tools, skills and strategies, brainstorming solutions, setting actionable steps and celebrating wins.
Welcome! I am Andrea, a Mental Health Coach. I work largely with professionals in Tech and Science navigating stress and anxiety. Coaching is a collaborative process tailored by your unique goals, centered on elevating mental and emotional well-being, as well as personal/professional development. It is proven effective for day to day life/professional challenges: managing stress, emotional overwhelm, decision making, relationship skills, communication, and work-life balance. Sessions may include exploring challenges, learning new tools, skills and strategies, brainstorming solutions, setting actionable steps and celebrating wins.
(541) 256-3301 View (541) 256-3301
Photo of Lexi Alma in Ashland, OR
Lexi Alma
MA
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
Is it time to dive back in the most tender places in yourself, your family, your world? Want to make way for joy, live in the present moment and find your own definition of success? Want to stop participating in the madness and become part of the change that's needed in these times? Do you sometimes wonder if your anxiety, depression, fear, griefs are all yours? Maybe I can help. I believe we are all a bit crazy and that most of what ails us is the result of being part of a collectively sick culture and a dying paradigm of consumer culture, patriarchy and war. There is still beauty, possibility and hope-I can help you remember this.
Is it time to dive back in the most tender places in yourself, your family, your world? Want to make way for joy, live in the present moment and find your own definition of success? Want to stop participating in the madness and become part of the change that's needed in these times? Do you sometimes wonder if your anxiety, depression, fear, griefs are all yours? Maybe I can help. I believe we are all a bit crazy and that most of what ails us is the result of being part of a collectively sick culture and a dying paradigm of consumer culture, patriarchy and war. There is still beauty, possibility and hope-I can help you remember this.
(541) 854-3169 View (541) 854-3169
Photo of Maria A Connolly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashland, OR
Maria A Connolly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, FP, PCC, CMC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
Are you seeking deeper self-awareness, emotional healing, and a life infused with authenticity and vitality? As a somatic therapist, I guide clients on a transformative growth journey through somatic (body-centered) practices. Our bodies hold innate wisdom for emotional liberation and heightened consciousness. Through mindfulness, and embodied exploration, we'll attune to your body's narratives, unveiling core beliefs that shape your experiences.
Are you seeking deeper self-awareness, emotional healing, and a life infused with authenticity and vitality? As a somatic therapist, I guide clients on a transformative growth journey through somatic (body-centered) practices. Our bodies hold innate wisdom for emotional liberation and heightened consciousness. Through mindfulness, and embodied exploration, we'll attune to your body's narratives, unveiling core beliefs that shape your experiences.
(541) 859-3203 View (541) 859-3203
Photo of Mary Breton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashland, OR
Mary Breton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you need guidance navigating difficult emotions, past trauma, family and life transitions. Are you someone who struggles with depression or anxiety, connection to others, or could use a neutral perspective and someone to talk to? Everyone wants to feel safe and supported while going through challenges. I work with a range of age groups, from teens, to emerging adults and older, and help clients to explore different ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving to increase self-awareness and improve functioning.
Do you need guidance navigating difficult emotions, past trauma, family and life transitions. Are you someone who struggles with depression or anxiety, connection to others, or could use a neutral perspective and someone to talk to? Everyone wants to feel safe and supported while going through challenges. I work with a range of age groups, from teens, to emerging adults and older, and help clients to explore different ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving to increase self-awareness and improve functioning.
(541) 256-4378 View (541) 256-4378
Photo of Lenita Newberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ashland, OR
Lenita Newberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
My interest is in helping you live your life fully. What do you know, and love, about yourself? What troubles you, no matter how much you work on it? And what are those unthought knowns–the truths about yourself that you don’t yet tell yourself? There is great healing power in learning them and learning how to use them. When someone enters a treatment with me, I feel the deep honor of accompanying that person on a significant journey. During the 30 years I’ve done therapy, I’ve become increasingly impressed by the power of a life story. How do we nurture the qualities that define us, make life more exciting and satisfying?
My interest is in helping you live your life fully. What do you know, and love, about yourself? What troubles you, no matter how much you work on it? And what are those unthought knowns–the truths about yourself that you don’t yet tell yourself? There is great healing power in learning them and learning how to use them. When someone enters a treatment with me, I feel the deep honor of accompanying that person on a significant journey. During the 30 years I’ve done therapy, I’ve become increasingly impressed by the power of a life story. How do we nurture the qualities that define us, make life more exciting and satisfying?
(541) 591-7944 View (541) 591-7944
Photo of Amirah K David, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashland, OR
Amirah K David
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
Waitlist for new clients
I love people, and I love my work. I believe we are all in deep need of understanding and feeling our innate worth, separate from what we do or prove to the world. I seek to gently support clients in finding the true source of this worth. I employ an eclectic and integrated approach depending on individual client needs, and seek to support the whole person in a collaborative, compassionate, and relational manner. I specialize in perinatal mental health, faith-based counseling, and women seeking deeper meaning in life and fulfilling creative expression. Please see my website at www.amirahdavid.com.
I love people, and I love my work. I believe we are all in deep need of understanding and feeling our innate worth, separate from what we do or prove to the world. I seek to gently support clients in finding the true source of this worth. I employ an eclectic and integrated approach depending on individual client needs, and seek to support the whole person in a collaborative, compassionate, and relational manner. I specialize in perinatal mental health, faith-based counseling, and women seeking deeper meaning in life and fulfilling creative expression. Please see my website at www.amirahdavid.com.
(458) 214-8578 View (458) 214-8578
Photo of Judy Voruz, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Ashland, OR
Judy Voruz
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, QMHP-R, CADCII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
Waitlist for new clients
My clients come from diverse backgrounds and are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and substance abuse. They are looking for a counselor who supports them in creating real change in their daily lives. They engage in counseling to understand themselves and appreciate their innate goodness and well being. They seek contentment and an experience of inner freedom
My clients come from diverse backgrounds and are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties and substance abuse. They are looking for a counselor who supports them in creating real change in their daily lives. They engage in counseling to understand themselves and appreciate their innate goodness and well being. They seek contentment and an experience of inner freedom
(458) 221-9815 View (458) 221-9815
Photo of Toni Richmond, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ashland, OR
Toni Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
I have been working with children, teens, families and couples for almost 33 years. I provide a safe environment, creating a space for you to feel heard, work on issues brought to the session and manage whatever life lessons need to be learned. I work with clients who have experienced physical & sexual abuse ,grief, loss, separation & divorce, reunification, parenting issues, anger, PTSD, self injurious behaviors, ADHD, domestic violence, depression, critical incidence response, suicide and veterans issues.
I have been working with children, teens, families and couples for almost 33 years. I provide a safe environment, creating a space for you to feel heard, work on issues brought to the session and manage whatever life lessons need to be learned. I work with clients who have experienced physical & sexual abuse ,grief, loss, separation & divorce, reunification, parenting issues, anger, PTSD, self injurious behaviors, ADHD, domestic violence, depression, critical incidence response, suicide and veterans issues.
(541) 663-4860 View (541) 663-4860
Photo of Graham Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ashland, OR
Graham Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
I strongly believe that all humans can reach an optimum state of health. An essential part of achieving this often involves addressing limiting habitual patterns of behavior or belief systems as well as learning skills to optimize healthy relationships. I seek to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment in which clients can identify their own answers and achieve tangible results. This can occur both in individual sessions as well as with the collaboration of family members. My practice has lead me to work with youth, young adults, adults, and families facing some very challenging life situations and internal struggles.
I strongly believe that all humans can reach an optimum state of health. An essential part of achieving this often involves addressing limiting habitual patterns of behavior or belief systems as well as learning skills to optimize healthy relationships. I seek to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment in which clients can identify their own answers and achieve tangible results. This can occur both in individual sessions as well as with the collaboration of family members. My practice has lead me to work with youth, young adults, adults, and families facing some very challenging life situations and internal struggles.
(541) 951-3095 View (541) 951-3095
Photo of Sarah Grubbs, Professional Counselor Associate in Ashland, OR
Sarah Grubbs
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
Therapy is an invitation to explore life experiences in a safe and supportive environment; an opportunity to gain insight into what drives your thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. My goal is to help clients liberate stuck consciousness and help them re-member their true selves. I provide a neutral ground to clients and my primary focus is working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression and impacts of trauma. I see my clients as the expert in their own lives and therapy as a chance to reconnect with their inner resources, and what gives them purpose and meaning.
Therapy is an invitation to explore life experiences in a safe and supportive environment; an opportunity to gain insight into what drives your thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. My goal is to help clients liberate stuck consciousness and help them re-member their true selves. I provide a neutral ground to clients and my primary focus is working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression and impacts of trauma. I see my clients as the expert in their own lives and therapy as a chance to reconnect with their inner resources, and what gives them purpose and meaning.
(541) 275-6390 View (541) 275-6390

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ashland, OR

200+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Ashland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
88% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
79% Trauma and PTSD
78% Self Esteem
75% Stress
71% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

68% Oregon Health Plan (OHP)
57% Other
43% PacificSource

How Therapists in Ashland, OR see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
22% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ashland?

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.