Therapists in Roanoke, VA

Photo of Bailey Ratliff, Resident in Counseling in Roanoke, VA
Bailey Ratliff
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in life? I am here to guide you on your journey to emotional well-being and personal growth. The goal is not only to alleviate symptoms; I’m here to help you create lasting, positive changes in your life. I understand that every individual is unique. Counseling sessions are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the support and strategies that work best for you. I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and in-person counseling in Roanoke, Virginia.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in life? I am here to guide you on your journey to emotional well-being and personal growth. The goal is not only to alleviate symptoms; I’m here to help you create lasting, positive changes in your life. I understand that every individual is unique. Counseling sessions are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the support and strategies that work best for you. I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and in-person counseling in Roanoke, Virginia.
(540) 453-8278 View (540) 453-8278
Photo of Jennifer J. Slusher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Jennifer J. Slusher
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
We all have times when we feel stuck or feel like something is off. Life can be challenging, and navigating those challenges can be difficult. Processing the struggles and transitions we face with a professional is often necessary, Additionally, certain past issues or traumas need to be explored in order to move forward. I would love the opportunity to meet with you, hear your story, and see how I can help. Together, we will find the most comfortable and best approach to help you get "unstuck" and move toward a more fulfilling life.
We all have times when we feel stuck or feel like something is off. Life can be challenging, and navigating those challenges can be difficult. Processing the struggles and transitions we face with a professional is often necessary, Additionally, certain past issues or traumas need to be explored in order to move forward. I would love the opportunity to meet with you, hear your story, and see how I can help. Together, we will find the most comfortable and best approach to help you get "unstuck" and move toward a more fulfilling life.
(540) 402-9532 View (540) 402-9532
Photo of Amy Papageorge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Amy Papageorge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
Everyone has problems from time to time. Therapy can help. Choosing to seek help for depression, anxiety or other problems that are getting in the way of your happiness can be difficult and scary. My approach is direct and open, and focuses on enhancing your personal growth and ability to cope with life's problems. You are most likely to see benefits from therapy if you are motivated, honest, and willing to work at self-improvement and self-awareness. I will treat you with dignity and respect, and work with you to help you achieve your goals.
Everyone has problems from time to time. Therapy can help. Choosing to seek help for depression, anxiety or other problems that are getting in the way of your happiness can be difficult and scary. My approach is direct and open, and focuses on enhancing your personal growth and ability to cope with life's problems. You are most likely to see benefits from therapy if you are motivated, honest, and willing to work at self-improvement and self-awareness. I will treat you with dignity and respect, and work with you to help you achieve your goals.
(540) 354-2003 View (540) 354-2003
Photo of Richard Villa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Richard Villa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012
Hi there, I'm Richard, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and certified in the areas of substance abuse and mental health. I am also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, a Master Addictions Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a Certified School Counselor. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, behavioral issues, coping skills, and more. Most recently, I have been working as a Military and Family Life Counselor in Japan. My approach focuses on motivational interviewing, client centered therapy and positive psychology.
Hi there, I'm Richard, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and certified in the areas of substance abuse and mental health. I am also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, a Master Addictions Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a Certified School Counselor. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, behavioral issues, coping skills, and more. Most recently, I have been working as a Military and Family Life Counselor in Japan. My approach focuses on motivational interviewing, client centered therapy and positive psychology.
(540) 889-3455 View (540) 889-3455
Photo of Mainstream Mental Health Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Mainstream Mental Health Services
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Do worries impact your ability to focus on what matters most? Has life got you down and you’re not sure why? Maybe you do know why, but you don’t feel comfortable sharing with family and friends? Are you facing relationship challenges or maybe you're struggling with loving yourself? Mainstream Mental Health Services believes in providing goal-directed, person-centered counseling to individuals seeking support with life’s challenges. It is our mission to support our clients to develop the skills, understanding and overall ability to manage their mind and enhance their quality of life.
Do worries impact your ability to focus on what matters most? Has life got you down and you’re not sure why? Maybe you do know why, but you don’t feel comfortable sharing with family and friends? Are you facing relationship challenges or maybe you're struggling with loving yourself? Mainstream Mental Health Services believes in providing goal-directed, person-centered counseling to individuals seeking support with life’s challenges. It is our mission to support our clients to develop the skills, understanding and overall ability to manage their mind and enhance their quality of life.
(540) 966-5808 View (540) 966-5808
Photo of Dana Deivert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Dana Deivert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
Life is full of transitions and adjustments. Often, there are many aspects of life outside of our control, which can feel incredibly difficult to manage. We cannot control all of the things that happen to us, but we can begin our journey in processing and moving through it. Trust can take time to establish. Let’s build a place of safety to allow healing to begin. My practice is to walk alongside you from a stance of non-judgement and acceptance. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and attachment related issues. I also have experience working with military personnel.
Life is full of transitions and adjustments. Often, there are many aspects of life outside of our control, which can feel incredibly difficult to manage. We cannot control all of the things that happen to us, but we can begin our journey in processing and moving through it. Trust can take time to establish. Let’s build a place of safety to allow healing to begin. My practice is to walk alongside you from a stance of non-judgement and acceptance. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and attachment related issues. I also have experience working with military personnel.
(540) 274-2626 View (540) 274-2626
Photo of Jessica Conway, Marriage & Family Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Jessica Conway
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
Waitlist for new clients
It's great news that you're here! My name is Jes Conway and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience working with individuals and couples in a wide range of settings. Whether you are seeking to address a specific problem/situation or you are interested in taking a general personal inventory, you're acknowledging that you would like things to be different. What we often don't realize is that change requires taking action, and that in itself is a skill to learn and practice. I am excited to meet you and to see how I might be of service.
It's great news that you're here! My name is Jes Conway and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience working with individuals and couples in a wide range of settings. Whether you are seeking to address a specific problem/situation or you are interested in taking a general personal inventory, you're acknowledging that you would like things to be different. What we often don't realize is that change requires taking action, and that in itself is a skill to learn and practice. I am excited to meet you and to see how I might be of service.
(540) 385-4584 View (540) 385-4584
Photo of Deneen Logan Evans, Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Deneen Logan Evans
Counselor, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012
Dr. Deneen Evans has over 30 years experience partnering with diverse clients. Her practice is based on principles of social justice, diversity and inclusion and she empowers clients to restore their mental wellness by identifying their strengths and resources. Dr. Evans enjoys working with teenagers, women and families and has experience with issues related to depression, anxiety, grief, disability, racial identity and trauma.
Dr. Deneen Evans has over 30 years experience partnering with diverse clients. Her practice is based on principles of social justice, diversity and inclusion and she empowers clients to restore their mental wellness by identifying their strengths and resources. Dr. Evans enjoys working with teenagers, women and families and has experience with issues related to depression, anxiety, grief, disability, racial identity and trauma.
(540) 274-2604 View (540) 274-2604
Photo of David Gofman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
David Gofman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24011
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, dual licensed in VA and CT. I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with a variety of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, perfectionism, stress, chronic pain, and relationship issues. I am a certified Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teacher, and offer evidence-based approaches to help you navigate your life circumstances more skillfully, and to get to a place where you can live your life on your terms.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, dual licensed in VA and CT. I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with a variety of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, perfectionism, stress, chronic pain, and relationship issues. I am a certified Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teacher, and offer evidence-based approaches to help you navigate your life circumstances more skillfully, and to get to a place where you can live your life on your terms.
(571) 520-8690 View (571) 520-8690
Photo of James Dayton Olsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
James Dayton Olsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
I am a young therapist, and I am very passionate about my profession and the lives of my patients. I hail from Fredericksburg, VA, but am proud to call the Southwestern portion of the state my home. I have a diverse background, having worked in substance abuse, community clinics, and a private practice. I perform most forms of traditional talk therapy, though I am not very concerned with theories of counseling (they don't matter much anyways :) ). I strive to develop close, meaningful connections with my patients, and these relationships are the driving force in my work.
I am a young therapist, and I am very passionate about my profession and the lives of my patients. I hail from Fredericksburg, VA, but am proud to call the Southwestern portion of the state my home. I have a diverse background, having worked in substance abuse, community clinics, and a private practice. I perform most forms of traditional talk therapy, though I am not very concerned with theories of counseling (they don't matter much anyways :) ). I strive to develop close, meaningful connections with my patients, and these relationships are the driving force in my work.
(540) 516-4730 View (540) 516-4730
Photo of Mackenzie Coulson, Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Mackenzie Coulson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
(276) 859-5673 View (276) 859-5673
Photo of Manns Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Manns Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24019
Are you finding yourself “lost” after a “loss”? You could make use of grief counseling to return to a new and different life. Many times losses come with different looks such with depression with physical and emotional issues. We have treatment programs that can deal with depression and anxiety. Anger Management for Women and Men,Depression and Diabetes, and Men and Depression
Are you finding yourself “lost” after a “loss”? You could make use of grief counseling to return to a new and different life. Many times losses come with different looks such with depression with physical and emotional issues. We have treatment programs that can deal with depression and anxiety. Anger Management for Women and Men,Depression and Diabetes, and Men and Depression
(540) 692-9994 View (540) 692-9994
Photo of Heather H Massey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Heather H Massey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011
To put it bluntly, I am here for you. I want to hear about what is hurting you and stopping you from moving forward in a happy and positive way in your life. I want your input on what the problem is and what plan will work with you personally. We will gather all our information and decide on a plan of action to get you back to where you want to be as quickly as possible and develop a way to keep you there.
To put it bluntly, I am here for you. I want to hear about what is hurting you and stopping you from moving forward in a happy and positive way in your life. I want your input on what the problem is and what plan will work with you personally. We will gather all our information and decide on a plan of action to get you back to where you want to be as quickly as possible and develop a way to keep you there.
(540) 784-1876 View (540) 784-1876
Photo of Cynthia 'cyndi' Richards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Cynthia 'cyndi' Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
In choosing a mental health professional, you want to ensure that the person has the training and experience to assist you with getting the results you desire. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I have 21 years of experience in the behavioral healthcare field. I work closely with children, adolescents, adults, and families, with a broad range of crisis, mental health and stressful life situations. We work together so that you may find new hope, solutions, and resolutions to see improved life situations and experience improved relationships. I am also an LCSW clinical supervisor and provide clinical supervision.
In choosing a mental health professional, you want to ensure that the person has the training and experience to assist you with getting the results you desire. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and I have 21 years of experience in the behavioral healthcare field. I work closely with children, adolescents, adults, and families, with a broad range of crisis, mental health and stressful life situations. We work together so that you may find new hope, solutions, and resolutions to see improved life situations and experience improved relationships. I am also an LCSW clinical supervisor and provide clinical supervision.
(540) 253-1624 View (540) 253-1624
Photo of Nikki Stup, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Nikki Stup
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
I believe counseling is a partnership between myself and the individuals I work with. I go into each session with hope and confidence that those seeking change will achieve it. I enjoy working with people of many ages and backgrounds and look forward to addressing issues related to behavioral disorders, anxiety/depression, stress, relationships, grief/loss, life transitions, and many more. My goal is to walk beside individuals as they work through life challenges.
I believe counseling is a partnership between myself and the individuals I work with. I go into each session with hope and confidence that those seeking change will achieve it. I enjoy working with people of many ages and backgrounds and look forward to addressing issues related to behavioral disorders, anxiety/depression, stress, relationships, grief/loss, life transitions, and many more. My goal is to walk beside individuals as they work through life challenges.
(540) 779-8411 View (540) 779-8411
Photo of Althea Dent, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Althea Dent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
I desire to create an atmosphere that is comfortable and accepting and develop with my clients a collaborative therapeutic relationship. My primary goal is to come alongside the client and assist in managing issues that can cause one to feel stuck, overwhelmed or paralyzed while helping clients to move toward a more effective and rewarding life. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral, brief and solution focused therapies and techniques among other tools to develop an integrative approach that is tailored to each client individually. I also do work with engaged, dating and married couples using as customized couples assessment.
I desire to create an atmosphere that is comfortable and accepting and develop with my clients a collaborative therapeutic relationship. My primary goal is to come alongside the client and assist in managing issues that can cause one to feel stuck, overwhelmed or paralyzed while helping clients to move toward a more effective and rewarding life. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral, brief and solution focused therapies and techniques among other tools to develop an integrative approach that is tailored to each client individually. I also do work with engaged, dating and married couples using as customized couples assessment.
(540) 361-6591 View (540) 361-6591
Photo of Chad Wills, Psychologist in Roanoke, VA
Chad Wills
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
Not accepting new clients
I am focused on providing you with the best care possible. I am a doctoral level clinician and I enjoy applying what I have learned with a down to earth common sense style. I firmly believe in the power of hope. I am open to working with all people. I specialize in evaluation and treatment of ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, relationship issues, social issues, family therapy, parenting, grief and loss, as well as other common developmental concerns across the lifespan.
I am focused on providing you with the best care possible. I am a doctoral level clinician and I enjoy applying what I have learned with a down to earth common sense style. I firmly believe in the power of hope. I am open to working with all people. I specialize in evaluation and treatment of ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, relationship issues, social issues, family therapy, parenting, grief and loss, as well as other common developmental concerns across the lifespan.
(540) 251-0675 View (540) 251-0675
Mindful Healing Inc
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
We are currently accepting clients ages 18 and up. Our therapists are experienced and have a passion to help others who have experienced traumatic events or stressful life situations. It is our goal to help with finding healthy perceptions of themselves, and to strengthen interpersonal relationships. We offer in person, and online counseling. We look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
We are currently accepting clients ages 18 and up. Our therapists are experienced and have a passion to help others who have experienced traumatic events or stressful life situations. It is our goal to help with finding healthy perceptions of themselves, and to strengthen interpersonal relationships. We offer in person, and online counseling. We look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(540) 318-2402 View (540) 318-2402
Photo of Meade Eggleston, Psychologist in Roanoke, VA
Meade Eggleston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
Do you feel stuck and want help moving forward? I enjoy helping people who are struggling with addiction. If you have an addiction, I can also help with related problems like anxiety, PTSD and trauma, and anger. You do not have to do this alone. We can work together to help you build insight into why you struggle and then connect to the knowledge, skills, and resources to do things differently. I value building a safe, open environment for therapy that supports integrity, wellness, and joy. I firmly believe recovery is possible.
Do you feel stuck and want help moving forward? I enjoy helping people who are struggling with addiction. If you have an addiction, I can also help with related problems like anxiety, PTSD and trauma, and anger. You do not have to do this alone. We can work together to help you build insight into why you struggle and then connect to the knowledge, skills, and resources to do things differently. I value building a safe, open environment for therapy that supports integrity, wellness, and joy. I firmly believe recovery is possible.
(540) 524-2055 View (540) 524-2055
Photo of Tom O'Neill Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Tom O'Neill Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
“Taking refuge” is a phrase in Buddhism that invites a world-weary self to find relief. From the confusion of life’s dramas and the pull to get swept up in them. Taking refuge requires building trustworthiness through a softening that happens over time in relationship. That is one reason psychotherapy is effective: The trustworthiness built by therapist and client allows for a depth of self to be known and expressed. Such encounters in turn build trustworthiness within oneself, for as our capacities enlarge, we enlarge. In finding solace within, we learn to live less fearfully, participate in relationship with authority and ease.
“Taking refuge” is a phrase in Buddhism that invites a world-weary self to find relief. From the confusion of life’s dramas and the pull to get swept up in them. Taking refuge requires building trustworthiness through a softening that happens over time in relationship. That is one reason psychotherapy is effective: The trustworthiness built by therapist and client allows for a depth of self to be known and expressed. Such encounters in turn build trustworthiness within oneself, for as our capacities enlarge, we enlarge. In finding solace within, we learn to live less fearfully, participate in relationship with authority and ease.
(540) 253-1763 View (540) 253-1763

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Roanoke, VA

200+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Roanoke, VA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
70% Stress
69% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Anthem | Elevance
72% Aetna
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Roanoke, VA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Roanoke?

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.