Therapists in Fayetteville, NC

Photo of Renee B Wilson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Renee B Wilson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC , NCC, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304  (Online Only)
It is my pleasure to work with adolescents, adults, couples, veterans, and active-duty military, as well as with groups. I enjoy collaborating with people of diverse racial, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds who have experienced trauma either in childhood, adulthood, or through the military service and who are seeking a safe place to overcome life’s adversities, learn a new way to function, and live a victorious life. I work with issues related to ADHD, anger, anxiety, drug/alcohol use, panic, PTSD, personal growth, racial identity, self-esteem, sexual assault, stress, stressor-related disorders, and career development.
It is my pleasure to work with adolescents, adults, couples, veterans, and active-duty military, as well as with groups. I enjoy collaborating with people of diverse racial, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds who have experienced trauma either in childhood, adulthood, or through the military service and who are seeking a safe place to overcome life’s adversities, learn a new way to function, and live a victorious life. I work with issues related to ADHD, anger, anxiety, drug/alcohol use, panic, PTSD, personal growth, racial identity, self-esteem, sexual assault, stress, stressor-related disorders, and career development.
(910) 714-5052 View (910) 714-5052
Photo of Jennifer Morris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Jennifer Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, CCTS-I, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304  (Online Only)
Welcome! Every day we are faced with challenges that can be overwhelming and therapy can be a great way to re-center and have a private space to be honored and understood. I work with individuals ages 10-70 who struggle with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use as well as children struggling with family conflict and parenting challenges. I work to provide a personalized experience that empowers clients to improve their wellbeing through developing skills to improve relationships, increase connection, decrease negative stress responses and enhance spirituality.
Welcome! Every day we are faced with challenges that can be overwhelming and therapy can be a great way to re-center and have a private space to be honored and understood. I work with individuals ages 10-70 who struggle with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use as well as children struggling with family conflict and parenting challenges. I work to provide a personalized experience that empowers clients to improve their wellbeing through developing skills to improve relationships, increase connection, decrease negative stress responses and enhance spirituality.
(757) 693-9671 View (757) 693-9671
Photo of Imani N Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Imani N Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304
With approximately 14 years of combined, prior experience as a Qualified Professional (QP) and Family Case Manager in both the Georgia and North Carolina systems of Mental Health and Human Services, I've had the privilege of working with adults, children, families, and groups with compassion and professionalism. Since 2012, I've served as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing in-home, office, and community-based therapy.
With approximately 14 years of combined, prior experience as a Qualified Professional (QP) and Family Case Manager in both the Georgia and North Carolina systems of Mental Health and Human Services, I've had the privilege of working with adults, children, families, and groups with compassion and professionalism. Since 2012, I've served as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing in-home, office, and community-based therapy.
(910) 247-4721 View (910) 247-4721
Photo of Shannon S Wiggins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Shannon S Wiggins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Not accepting new clients
You are NOT WEAK. You simply realize there’s a BETTER WAY to tackle your CHALLENGES. You are NOT CRAZY. You have challenges like EVERYONE else and just want a SAFE place to WORK THEM OUT. You DO NOT want anyone’s PITY; you simply want to BETTER your LIFE. You expect ELITE care, and that’s what I provide. I work with PROFESSIONAL MILLENIALS that want the BEST out of LIFE and are MOTIVATED for change. I provide clients with PRACTICAL TOOLS they can use NOW to start FEELING BETTER FASTER. And I keep WORKING WITH YOU to ensure those changes stick. I help you LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!
You are NOT WEAK. You simply realize there’s a BETTER WAY to tackle your CHALLENGES. You are NOT CRAZY. You have challenges like EVERYONE else and just want a SAFE place to WORK THEM OUT. You DO NOT want anyone’s PITY; you simply want to BETTER your LIFE. You expect ELITE care, and that’s what I provide. I work with PROFESSIONAL MILLENIALS that want the BEST out of LIFE and are MOTIVATED for change. I provide clients with PRACTICAL TOOLS they can use NOW to start FEELING BETTER FASTER. And I keep WORKING WITH YOU to ensure those changes stick. I help you LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!
(910) 501-2641 View (910) 501-2641
Photo of Freedom Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Freedom Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28311  (Online Only)
Everyone experience’s struggles in their lives that can feel too overwhelming at times. Even though you are doing the best you can to cope, you just might need a little help getting things on track. I am interested in providing you with the tools to understand your issues and to reach your life goals.
Everyone experience’s struggles in their lives that can feel too overwhelming at times. Even though you are doing the best you can to cope, you just might need a little help getting things on track. I am interested in providing you with the tools to understand your issues and to reach your life goals.
(910) 493-3279 View (910) 493-3279
Photo of LaTasha Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fayetteville, NC
LaTasha Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Oftentimes we find ourselves taking the scenic route through life. It can become overwhelming dealing with one obstacle after another, not being able to put your finger on exactly what’s wrong. It’s times like this along our route that we need someone to talk to, to provide us a little help with learning to control the direction of our life. I can be that person, helping to improve your mental health while promoting well-being in a safe respectful environment, free of judgment where trust can be built and truth found.
Oftentimes we find ourselves taking the scenic route through life. It can become overwhelming dealing with one obstacle after another, not being able to put your finger on exactly what’s wrong. It’s times like this along our route that we need someone to talk to, to provide us a little help with learning to control the direction of our life. I can be that person, helping to improve your mental health while promoting well-being in a safe respectful environment, free of judgment where trust can be built and truth found.
(910) 485-6336 View (910) 485-6336
Photo of Karen Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Karen Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303  (Online Only)
As a clinician, I embrace a strength-based approach and I borrow from many different cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy theories. I believe that building a positive therapeutic relationship is of great importance in the therapeutic process and that our time together should feel supportive and safe. I utilize dialogue, psychoeducation, relaxation/ mindfulness, reframing negative thoughts and positive decision making.
As a clinician, I embrace a strength-based approach and I borrow from many different cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy theories. I believe that building a positive therapeutic relationship is of great importance in the therapeutic process and that our time together should feel supportive and safe. I utilize dialogue, psychoeducation, relaxation/ mindfulness, reframing negative thoughts and positive decision making.
(910) 387-0623 View (910) 387-0623
Photo of Inner Pathways Counseling Service, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Inner Pathways Counseling Service
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
We provide child, adolescent, family, couples, individual, and group counseling. Periodically we facilitate psycho educational groups on various topics. I have experience working with individuals with anger management, assertiveness, parenting, stress management, sexual dysfunction and self-esteem issues.
We provide child, adolescent, family, couples, individual, and group counseling. Periodically we facilitate psycho educational groups on various topics. I have experience working with individuals with anger management, assertiveness, parenting, stress management, sexual dysfunction and self-esteem issues.
(910) 218-8060 View (910) 218-8060
Photo of Lisette Deese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Lisette Deese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CSI, CCTP, CDBT
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a young child, Lisette knew that she was called to "help others." Therefore, she decided to pursue something in the human service field. She graduated in 2004, with her BS in psychology from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In 2009, she received her MSW from Fayetteville State University. Lisette believes that "Understanding the human spirit is the most important aspect to helping others." Building a therapeutic relationship with your client is a must! Empowerment is a major role that both client and therapist must display. If you believe in yourself, others will believe in you as well. That energy is undeniable!
As a young child, Lisette knew that she was called to "help others." Therefore, she decided to pursue something in the human service field. She graduated in 2004, with her BS in psychology from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In 2009, she received her MSW from Fayetteville State University. Lisette believes that "Understanding the human spirit is the most important aspect to helping others." Building a therapeutic relationship with your client is a must! Empowerment is a major role that both client and therapist must display. If you believe in yourself, others will believe in you as well. That energy is undeniable!
(919) 666-2045 View (919) 666-2045
Photo of Shironda Monique Bryant, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Shironda Monique Bryant
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Shironda M. Bryant. I attended William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey where I received a bachelors degree in Sociology (Criminal Justice) and a masters degree in Education: Counseling Services. I love to travel,sing, dance, laugh and help others. I am motivated by the fact that I think I have a way of "normalizing" therapy. I grew up hearing people equate therapy to "being crazy" and wanted to help change the perception. I am honored that I get to work in my God given Gift daily!!
Hello. My name is Shironda M. Bryant. I attended William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey where I received a bachelors degree in Sociology (Criminal Justice) and a masters degree in Education: Counseling Services. I love to travel,sing, dance, laugh and help others. I am motivated by the fact that I think I have a way of "normalizing" therapy. I grew up hearing people equate therapy to "being crazy" and wanted to help change the perception. I am honored that I get to work in my God given Gift daily!!
(910) 613-9814 View (910) 613-9814
Photo of MaLena Goodnight, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
MaLena Goodnight
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28301  (Online Only)
MaLena Goodnight is an independently-licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina and a Marine Corps veteran. She has a passion for supporting military members, veterans, and their families. MaLena is also a trained Reiki master and offers an affirming, safe space for individuals and couples. She has provided mental health care for more than 14 years. She will be providing therapeutic care from ages 14-65+ for individuals seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or other sexuality issues. She is a strong ally, lifestyle-friendly, and kink-aware.
MaLena Goodnight is an independently-licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina and a Marine Corps veteran. She has a passion for supporting military members, veterans, and their families. MaLena is also a trained Reiki master and offers an affirming, safe space for individuals and couples. She has provided mental health care for more than 14 years. She will be providing therapeutic care from ages 14-65+ for individuals seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, and/or other sexuality issues. She is a strong ally, lifestyle-friendly, and kink-aware.
(910) 469-1789 View (910) 469-1789
Photo of Kari Whirry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fayetteville, NC
Kari Whirry
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28305  (Online Only)
As a clinical social worker, I believe in meeting clients where they are. I strive to provide a therapeutic environment that helps you achieve your goals and become the best version of yourself. I have a casual approach to therapy and believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I want to work collaboratively, combining our shared expertise to help you become the most healthy version of yourself.
As a clinical social worker, I believe in meeting clients where they are. I strive to provide a therapeutic environment that helps you achieve your goals and become the best version of yourself. I have a casual approach to therapy and believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I want to work collaboratively, combining our shared expertise to help you become the most healthy version of yourself.
(910) 877-8990 View (910) 877-8990
Photo of Jason Timothy Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Jason Timothy Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Asking for help can be difficult, but it's something we all need to do at some point in our lives. It can take a great deal of courage to make that first call, but I'm here to help. I'm not here to judge, and I will never lead you on. I am offering a new perspective on your challenges and I am willing to just listen if that's what you need. You are the expert on YOU- I'm just here to help mobilize those strengths that you already possess and have used in the past to overcome life's difficulties. So whatever it is that you are facing, let's face it together and complete the mission. I've got your back.
Asking for help can be difficult, but it's something we all need to do at some point in our lives. It can take a great deal of courage to make that first call, but I'm here to help. I'm not here to judge, and I will never lead you on. I am offering a new perspective on your challenges and I am willing to just listen if that's what you need. You are the expert on YOU- I'm just here to help mobilize those strengths that you already possess and have used in the past to overcome life's difficulties. So whatever it is that you are facing, let's face it together and complete the mission. I've got your back.
(910) 580-4973 View (910) 580-4973
Photo of Odyessey Webb, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Odyessey Webb
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304
We all can experience a range of emotions, from fear and excitement to exhilaration and anticipation as we navigate the twists and turns of the ride. Whether you or a family member are grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, family-related concerns, or other emotional and psychological obstacles, rest assured that I am here to offer my support. My unwavering commitment to assisting others has always been a driving force in my life. My mission is to address your Behavioral Health and Counseling needs with genuine empathy and steadfast commitment to providing high-quality care.
We all can experience a range of emotions, from fear and excitement to exhilaration and anticipation as we navigate the twists and turns of the ride. Whether you or a family member are grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, family-related concerns, or other emotional and psychological obstacles, rest assured that I am here to offer my support. My unwavering commitment to assisting others has always been a driving force in my life. My mission is to address your Behavioral Health and Counseling needs with genuine empathy and steadfast commitment to providing high-quality care.
(910) 485-6336 View (910) 485-6336
Photo of Brittany Kai, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Brittany Kai
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPCC, LCMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314
I specialize in women’s health and wellness, with a passion for maternal mental health. I believe there is a strong need for more parental support, no matter what the family unit looks like. From family planning to pregnancy to infancy - all the way until the kiddos "leave the nest", the journey carries unique highs and lows. Having outside support can help!
I specialize in women’s health and wellness, with a passion for maternal mental health. I believe there is a strong need for more parental support, no matter what the family unit looks like. From family planning to pregnancy to infancy - all the way until the kiddos "leave the nest", the journey carries unique highs and lows. Having outside support can help!
(910) 812-3077 View (910) 812-3077
Photo of Healing Selves Therapeutics, PLLC , Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Healing Selves Therapeutics, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305
We are Licensed Professionals Providing: Psychotherapy, Substance Use Counseling, Trauma Processing, EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, and Consultation. We specialize in dissociative disorders, trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and Depression.
We are Licensed Professionals Providing: Psychotherapy, Substance Use Counseling, Trauma Processing, EMDR, Clinical Hypnosis, and Consultation. We specialize in dissociative disorders, trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and Depression.
(336) 361-2717 View (336) 361-2717
Photo of Mayra E Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Mayra E Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304  (Online Only)
I am committed to helping individuals with complex traumas, substance misuse, and situations that negatively impact our lives. My work focuses on using psychodynamic, humanistic, and behavioral approaches to assist my clients with a variety of diagnoses. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to assist my clients in reaching their goals. I am passionate about working with my client while remaining ethical. As a bilingual Mexican with a military background, I genuinely believe that we all come from different roots and are united by trying to achieve a life of fulfillment through the various challenges we face.
I am committed to helping individuals with complex traumas, substance misuse, and situations that negatively impact our lives. My work focuses on using psychodynamic, humanistic, and behavioral approaches to assist my clients with a variety of diagnoses. I believe in taking a collaborative approach to assist my clients in reaching their goals. I am passionate about working with my client while remaining ethical. As a bilingual Mexican with a military background, I genuinely believe that we all come from different roots and are united by trying to achieve a life of fulfillment through the various challenges we face.
(910) 629-5092 View (910) 629-5092
Photo of Jenny Massol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Jenny Massol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
If you're looking for guidance and support with challenging situations I can assist you to achieve your goals. By using a variety of techniques that will help you change negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
If you're looking for guidance and support with challenging situations I can assist you to achieve your goals. By using a variety of techniques that will help you change negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(910) 370-1028 View (910) 370-1028
Photo of Donald Sanders, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Fayetteville, NC
Donald Sanders
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28306  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone may experience unfortunate circumstances during their lifetime. When this happens, we may need a helping hand in managing our difficulties. It takes a brave person to ask for assistance but this is the first step in the healing process. If you would like for me to be that helping hand, please contact me. I offer Tele-Counseling at various times in order to meet the busy schedules that many people have in their lives. Please feel free to email me and request an appointment.
I believe that everyone may experience unfortunate circumstances during their lifetime. When this happens, we may need a helping hand in managing our difficulties. It takes a brave person to ask for assistance but this is the first step in the healing process. If you would like for me to be that helping hand, please contact me. I offer Tele-Counseling at various times in order to meet the busy schedules that many people have in their lives. Please feel free to email me and request an appointment.
(919) 726-0353 View (919) 726-0353
Photo of Katarina Galyen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayetteville, NC
Katarina Galyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28314
I love working with those who are truly seeking lasting change. I have worked with people from ages 5-80 from a variety of backgrounds. I have specific training in perinatal and maternal mental health, autism, ADHD, religious trauma, complex trauma, infertility, adoption, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, child and infant loss, LGBTQIA+, play therapy for neurodivergence, and holistic health integration. I am also a lived-experience provider. :-)
I love working with those who are truly seeking lasting change. I have worked with people from ages 5-80 from a variety of backgrounds. I have specific training in perinatal and maternal mental health, autism, ADHD, religious trauma, complex trauma, infertility, adoption, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, child and infant loss, LGBTQIA+, play therapy for neurodivergence, and holistic health integration. I am also a lived-experience provider. :-)
(910) 292-5700 View (910) 292-5700

See more therapy options for Fayetteville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Fayetteville, NC

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Fayetteville, NC who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Coping Skills
74% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues
70% Trauma and PTSD
68% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% Aetna
64% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Fayetteville, NC see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
12% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Fayetteville?

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.