Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

View neighborhoods in Phoenix
Photo of Racheal Turner, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Racheal Turner
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Hello! I'm Racheal Turner. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor at Turning Point Counseling. As a therapist, my passion is to support people who want to find more acceptance, wholeness, and aliveness in all of who they are. I have a passion for working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, self- esteem, grief and abuse. I bring my whole heart and authentic self to therapy and draw from several different schools of practice which all center around building a healthy therapeutic relationship.
Hello! I'm Racheal Turner. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor at Turning Point Counseling. As a therapist, my passion is to support people who want to find more acceptance, wholeness, and aliveness in all of who they are. I have a passion for working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, codependency, self- esteem, grief and abuse. I bring my whole heart and authentic self to therapy and draw from several different schools of practice which all center around building a healthy therapeutic relationship.
(480) 910-6242 View (480) 910-6242
Photo of Marcus Recarte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Marcus Recarte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel trapped and alone, or find your self engaged in self-defeating behaviors? Are you: Anxious, depressed, betrayed, confused, defeated, frustrated, or lack of self-worth/low self-esteem? My clients learn to break self-defeating thoughts and behaviors by helping them seek the possibilities by working towards acceptance, forgiveness, and compassion. I also provide several different evidenced based interventions. I coach my clients in developing healthy coping skills, incorporating, health, mind, and spiritual perspective enhancing one's ability to reach their full potental.
Do you feel trapped and alone, or find your self engaged in self-defeating behaviors? Are you: Anxious, depressed, betrayed, confused, defeated, frustrated, or lack of self-worth/low self-esteem? My clients learn to break self-defeating thoughts and behaviors by helping them seek the possibilities by working towards acceptance, forgiveness, and compassion. I also provide several different evidenced based interventions. I coach my clients in developing healthy coping skills, incorporating, health, mind, and spiritual perspective enhancing one's ability to reach their full potental.
(480) 780-1408 View (480) 780-1408
Photo of Hannah Kennedy, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Hannah Kennedy
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Trauma is not just the big, obvious events that happen to us. It is also the small, but significant, experiences that teach us about who we are, where we belong, and what we deserve. The way that we coped with these experiences in the past may be wreaking havoc in the present. Therapy with me often involves digging into the past and those negative beliefs that continue to show up. We may use EMDR and other experiential techniques process what happened to you or around you. It becomes easier to make behavioral and relational changes once those old beliefs have been let go and replaced with more adaptive ways of thinking.
Trauma is not just the big, obvious events that happen to us. It is also the small, but significant, experiences that teach us about who we are, where we belong, and what we deserve. The way that we coped with these experiences in the past may be wreaking havoc in the present. Therapy with me often involves digging into the past and those negative beliefs that continue to show up. We may use EMDR and other experiential techniques process what happened to you or around you. It becomes easier to make behavioral and relational changes once those old beliefs have been let go and replaced with more adaptive ways of thinking.
(623) 294-7498 View (623) 294-7498
Photo of Laurie Finberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Laurie Finberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85054
Change can happen and it can happen quickly if you're willing to put confusing, overwhelming feelings and thoughts under a microscope and dig. I help facilitate the dig by providing you with a supportive environment to stimulate new ways of thinking about your life and identify actions necessary to create better outcomes for yourself.
Change can happen and it can happen quickly if you're willing to put confusing, overwhelming feelings and thoughts under a microscope and dig. I help facilitate the dig by providing you with a supportive environment to stimulate new ways of thinking about your life and identify actions necessary to create better outcomes for yourself.
(480) 613-8674 View (480) 613-8674
Photo of Erica Fardette, LPC Intern in Phoenix, AZ
Erica Fardette
LPC Intern, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Hello, my name is Erica! I’m so happy you’re here, taking the first steps towards growth and healing. As a Licensed Associate Counselor, my priority is to hold a safe, peaceful, and collaborative space to express your authentic self and support your therapeutic goals. I utilize eclectic, evidence-based approaches to help clients navigate life stressors and transitions, depression, and self-esteem issues with a focus on anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and interpersonal relationships. I am also versed in college/career counseling.
Accepting new clients! Hello, my name is Erica! I’m so happy you’re here, taking the first steps towards growth and healing. As a Licensed Associate Counselor, my priority is to hold a safe, peaceful, and collaborative space to express your authentic self and support your therapeutic goals. I utilize eclectic, evidence-based approaches to help clients navigate life stressors and transitions, depression, and self-esteem issues with a focus on anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and interpersonal relationships. I am also versed in college/career counseling.
(602) 497-3713 View (602) 497-3713
Photo of Bryan Terence Gastelle, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Bryan Terence Gastelle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85008  (Online Only)
My goal is always to learn your wellness goals and help you reach them on your terms. I take the guess work out of treatment and give the power back to my clients. Change can be a challenge, but I will be there with you every step of the way.
My goal is always to learn your wellness goals and help you reach them on your terms. I take the guess work out of treatment and give the power back to my clients. Change can be a challenge, but I will be there with you every step of the way.
(928) 437-1734 View (928) 437-1734
Photo of Carol Whitescarver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Carol Whitescarver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014  (Online Only)
Carol Whitescarver is a Clinical Social Worker, independently licensed in Massachusetts, Indiana, and Arizona. She has 24 years of social work and psychotherapy practice with individuals and groups. Carol graduated from Marymount College with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Psychology, and from Fordham University with a Master’s in Social Work. She has worked in outpatient treatment programs in her community and with veterans and active-duty army members and their families, as well as in residential programs for TBI, substance abuse, and mental illness within the Veterans Health Administration.
Carol Whitescarver is a Clinical Social Worker, independently licensed in Massachusetts, Indiana, and Arizona. She has 24 years of social work and psychotherapy practice with individuals and groups. Carol graduated from Marymount College with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Psychology, and from Fordham University with a Master’s in Social Work. She has worked in outpatient treatment programs in her community and with veterans and active-duty army members and their families, as well as in residential programs for TBI, substance abuse, and mental illness within the Veterans Health Administration.
(602) 461-7699 View (602) 461-7699
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Burruel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Jennifer Burruel
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
Life can be demanding and stressful, even when things are going well. This is especially true for high achievers. High achievers have a great number of strengths that have helped them be successful. However, high achievers often struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, uneven work/life balance, role overload/conflict, and interpersonal relationship challenges. These struggles can take a toll on your health and overall quality of life. If you are a high achiever, I can help you discover how you can achieve your personal and professional goals, while living a high quality, healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling life.
Life can be demanding and stressful, even when things are going well. This is especially true for high achievers. High achievers have a great number of strengths that have helped them be successful. However, high achievers often struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, uneven work/life balance, role overload/conflict, and interpersonal relationship challenges. These struggles can take a toll on your health and overall quality of life. If you are a high achiever, I can help you discover how you can achieve your personal and professional goals, while living a high quality, healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling life.
(602) 497-2053 View (602) 497-2053
Photo of Ben Pedraza, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Ben Pedraza
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85044
*****Hablo Español, aceptando nuevos clientes **** Feeling like your life is missing something,  like you're going in circles,  or frustrated because you don't know what to do next? Do you often criticize yourself,  or expect yourself to “just get over it?” Do you sometimes feel like you want to scream? Let me tell you, I too, have lived through uncertain, challenging times and second-guessed myself, so let's talk!
*****Hablo Español, aceptando nuevos clientes **** Feeling like your life is missing something,  like you're going in circles,  or frustrated because you don't know what to do next? Do you often criticize yourself,  or expect yourself to “just get over it?” Do you sometimes feel like you want to scream? Let me tell you, I too, have lived through uncertain, challenging times and second-guessed myself, so let's talk!
(480) 409-2468 View (480) 409-2468
Photo of Kristi Estrada, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Kristi Estrada
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85022  (Online Only)
I am Kristi Estrada, MAPC, CFTP, LPC-S, and I consider myself a Gracious Community Connector, Mobilizer, Disruptor, and Servant Leader, and Wishing the Body did not Keep the Score but grateful for helping grow the movement of Trauma Restorative Care and Recovery. As a Servant Leader, I bring a profound lifelong passion for health and healing, which permeates my work as a therapist and educator. My heart lies in supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate through various distressing symptoms, always approaching each interaction with an empathic and inquisitive spirit.
I am Kristi Estrada, MAPC, CFTP, LPC-S, and I consider myself a Gracious Community Connector, Mobilizer, Disruptor, and Servant Leader, and Wishing the Body did not Keep the Score but grateful for helping grow the movement of Trauma Restorative Care and Recovery. As a Servant Leader, I bring a profound lifelong passion for health and healing, which permeates my work as a therapist and educator. My heart lies in supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate through various distressing symptoms, always approaching each interaction with an empathic and inquisitive spirit.
(623) 462-2315 View (623) 462-2315
Photo of Jennifer C Cecil, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Jennifer C Cecil
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85029
I am a Christian, trauma-based therapist. I work quickly to discover the root issues of the symptoms with which you present, in counseling. While using a Christian world view, my approach to therapy is to utilize EMDR/IFS to heal past wounds, hurts, and traumas that may be impacting you today. We meet clients where they are and integrate spirituality as they feel comfortable.
I am a Christian, trauma-based therapist. I work quickly to discover the root issues of the symptoms with which you present, in counseling. While using a Christian world view, my approach to therapy is to utilize EMDR/IFS to heal past wounds, hurts, and traumas that may be impacting you today. We meet clients where they are and integrate spirituality as they feel comfortable.
(602) 483-6565 View (602) 483-6565
Photo of Kayleigh Lindsay, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Kayleigh Lindsay
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Feeling anxious or depressed are very real emotions that can prevent us from living our best, most enjoyable life. There is a clear pathway to heal after traumatic events or highly stressful situations. You deserve self-awareness, confidence, and a sense of fulfillment. I can guide you to setting the stage for the full healing that you deserve. The results can & will last a lifetime.
Feeling anxious or depressed are very real emotions that can prevent us from living our best, most enjoyable life. There is a clear pathway to heal after traumatic events or highly stressful situations. You deserve self-awareness, confidence, and a sense of fulfillment. I can guide you to setting the stage for the full healing that you deserve. The results can & will last a lifetime.
(520) 502-6541 View (520) 502-6541
Photo of Lisa Marie Persaud, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Lisa Marie Persaud
Counselor, MS, M Phil, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
Throughout our life’s journey, we may encounter various stresses that challenge us—experiences of grief, depression, and anxiety may frequent as we navigate this terrain on our path to mental health and well-being. Engaging in the process of counseling can be intimidating as you move through feelings of sadness, despair, loneliness, and periods of expansion and contraction. As an Existential- Integrative Therapist, it would be my honor to walk with you as you transcend these challenges and reclaim your autonomy, experiencing wholeness, enhanced connectedness to self and others, and rediscover meaning and purpose in life.
Throughout our life’s journey, we may encounter various stresses that challenge us—experiences of grief, depression, and anxiety may frequent as we navigate this terrain on our path to mental health and well-being. Engaging in the process of counseling can be intimidating as you move through feelings of sadness, despair, loneliness, and periods of expansion and contraction. As an Existential- Integrative Therapist, it would be my honor to walk with you as you transcend these challenges and reclaim your autonomy, experiencing wholeness, enhanced connectedness to self and others, and rediscover meaning and purpose in life.
(602) 529-3745 View (602) 529-3745
Photo of Ina E Hilgers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Ina E Hilgers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am a Behavioral Health Psychologist and LPC, that works with adults, adolescents, and children that have experienced trauma. Sometimes, our traumatic experiences can leave a wound that interferes with our ability to connect with ourselves, others, and the world. Often, we can feel incredibly isolated and misunderstood in our pain. Working with trauma includes building safety with the person, providing warmth and stability in the environment, and consistency in their treatment. While you may feel like there is no hope, there are gentle and effective ways, that we can work together to find, that will support your healing.
I am a Behavioral Health Psychologist and LPC, that works with adults, adolescents, and children that have experienced trauma. Sometimes, our traumatic experiences can leave a wound that interferes with our ability to connect with ourselves, others, and the world. Often, we can feel incredibly isolated and misunderstood in our pain. Working with trauma includes building safety with the person, providing warmth and stability in the environment, and consistency in their treatment. While you may feel like there is no hope, there are gentle and effective ways, that we can work together to find, that will support your healing.
(480) 531-6611 View (480) 531-6611
Photo of Lavoyche Phelps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Lavoyche Phelps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Well hello there , my name is Lavoyche, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. We all have experienced trauma in some form of fashion, which can render us hopeless and helpless. You may experience depression, anxiety, self harm, and suicidal ideations that overwhelm your life. We often become prisoners in our own prison unable to realize that we hold the keys to release us from that prison. I will help you identify tools to move forward from your past trauma, how to take back your life, and live freely .
Well hello there , my name is Lavoyche, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. We all have experienced trauma in some form of fashion, which can render us hopeless and helpless. You may experience depression, anxiety, self harm, and suicidal ideations that overwhelm your life. We often become prisoners in our own prison unable to realize that we hold the keys to release us from that prison. I will help you identify tools to move forward from your past trauma, how to take back your life, and live freely .
(520) 210-5410 View (520) 210-5410
Photo of Carmen L Lucia Psyd, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Carmen L Lucia Psyd
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed psychologist with experience working with adult individuals, providing psychotherapy for a wide range of concerns, such as: mood concerns, women's issues, self-esteem, relationships, career/work stress. I specialize in grief/loss and feel passionate about the challenges inherent in all forms of transition, adjustment to change, and how that impacts a person's evolution. I believe in the power of growth from experiences of pain and struggle as well as the importance of engaging mindfully in becoming the person you seek to be.
I am a licensed psychologist with experience working with adult individuals, providing psychotherapy for a wide range of concerns, such as: mood concerns, women's issues, self-esteem, relationships, career/work stress. I specialize in grief/loss and feel passionate about the challenges inherent in all forms of transition, adjustment to change, and how that impacts a person's evolution. I believe in the power of growth from experiences of pain and struggle as well as the importance of engaging mindfully in becoming the person you seek to be.
(480) 409-3598 View (480) 409-3598
Photo of Brittany McCord, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Brittany McCord
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I believe that every person has a natural drive towards growth and healing. It's what brought you to this page! I’m passionate about helping people to understand their emotions and reconnect with and trust their bodies again. I believe that emotions are this incredible built-in compass to help us navigate life in a way that is meaningful and in alignment with our truest selves. However, we have learned to disconnect from our emotions due to trauma, various cultural and familial messages around emotions, and because some emotions are too overwhelming to do alone so we disconnect to survive. Wherever you are at, there is hope.
I believe that every person has a natural drive towards growth and healing. It's what brought you to this page! I’m passionate about helping people to understand their emotions and reconnect with and trust their bodies again. I believe that emotions are this incredible built-in compass to help us navigate life in a way that is meaningful and in alignment with our truest selves. However, we have learned to disconnect from our emotions due to trauma, various cultural and familial messages around emotions, and because some emotions are too overwhelming to do alone so we disconnect to survive. Wherever you are at, there is hope.
(480) 568-3890 View (480) 568-3890
Photo of Breanna Wandrych, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Breanna Wandrych
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in gender and neurodivergent affirming therapy for Autistic and ADHD, LGBTQ+ adults. My focus is on supporting those in Gen Z and Millennial generations who are starting to realize that their perfectionism is holding them back and want to better align with their most authentic selves. I invite you to step into a space where you can express yourself and explore your inner world where the multitudes you contain are not just accepted but cherished. If you possess a natural curiosity about yourself and the world, we will likely work wonderfully together.
I specialize in gender and neurodivergent affirming therapy for Autistic and ADHD, LGBTQ+ adults. My focus is on supporting those in Gen Z and Millennial generations who are starting to realize that their perfectionism is holding them back and want to better align with their most authentic selves. I invite you to step into a space where you can express yourself and explore your inner world where the multitudes you contain are not just accepted but cherished. If you possess a natural curiosity about yourself and the world, we will likely work wonderfully together.
(602) 833-0439 View (602) 833-0439
Photo of Mar M Navarro, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Mar M Navarro
Counselor, LPC-S, TAD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
It is a privilege and an honor for me to be able to be part of your healing process and growth. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Behavioral Health working with children, families, and adults. I'm an attachment and trauma-based counselor and bilingual in English and Spanish. My focus is to work with patients and identify and alleviate root causes associated with social, emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges in various stages of development. I utilize a solution focused, strength-based approach to make progress towards the goals that we create together.
It is a privilege and an honor for me to be able to be part of your healing process and growth. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Behavioral Health working with children, families, and adults. I'm an attachment and trauma-based counselor and bilingual in English and Spanish. My focus is to work with patients and identify and alleviate root causes associated with social, emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges in various stages of development. I utilize a solution focused, strength-based approach to make progress towards the goals that we create together.
(928) 683-4004 View (928) 683-4004
Photo of Melissa Korkes, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Melissa Korkes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
Dr. Melissa Korkes (she/her) is a licensed psychologist who has experience working in forensic settings, community mental health, and private practice. I have had the honor of working with individuals who present with serious mental health, trauma, sex addiction, sexual offending behaviors, betrayal trauma, grief, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Dr. Melissa Korkes (she/her) is a licensed psychologist who has experience working in forensic settings, community mental health, and private practice. I have had the honor of working with individuals who present with serious mental health, trauma, sex addiction, sexual offending behaviors, betrayal trauma, grief, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
(602) 206-1844 View (602) 206-1844

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
70% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Phoenix, AZ see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Phoenix?

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.