Therapists in Dunwoody, GA

Photo of Tiffany Espinosa Hetzler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Tiffany Espinosa Hetzler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
As a therapist, I feel it is important to provide a non-judgmental space, where you can feel safe becoming vulnerable and processing any struggles you may be going through in life. I want to give you the support you need while also fostering independence by helping you recognize your strengths and teaching you skills to gain a sense of control and ability to cope. I have experience working with teens and adults with issues such as depression, suicidality, self-harm, trauma, anxiety, and family conflict. I have also worked closely with the Hispanic community and am able to provide therapy in Spanish.
As a therapist, I feel it is important to provide a non-judgmental space, where you can feel safe becoming vulnerable and processing any struggles you may be going through in life. I want to give you the support you need while also fostering independence by helping you recognize your strengths and teaching you skills to gain a sense of control and ability to cope. I have experience working with teens and adults with issues such as depression, suicidality, self-harm, trauma, anxiety, and family conflict. I have also worked closely with the Hispanic community and am able to provide therapy in Spanish.
(404) 856-3104 View (404) 856-3104
Photo of Steven Andrews, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dunwoody, GA
Steven Andrews
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Have you been traumatized by a religious belief or spiritual figure? Are you experiencing issues related to an LGBTQIA+ identity? Are you recovering from or in the thrall of an addiction? Do you live with autism or foster/adoption issues? At the intersection of trauma, substance use, family resilience, and queer identity, I work. I am an autistic, bisexual former foster child, who also happens to be knowledgeable about faith, spirituality, and the pervasive impact of trauma. If you have been wounded in one or more of these intersecting arenas, I would be privileged to be a part of your journey toward wholeness and healing.
Have you been traumatized by a religious belief or spiritual figure? Are you experiencing issues related to an LGBTQIA+ identity? Are you recovering from or in the thrall of an addiction? Do you live with autism or foster/adoption issues? At the intersection of trauma, substance use, family resilience, and queer identity, I work. I am an autistic, bisexual former foster child, who also happens to be knowledgeable about faith, spirituality, and the pervasive impact of trauma. If you have been wounded in one or more of these intersecting arenas, I would be privileged to be a part of your journey toward wholeness and healing.
(678) 968-0397 View (678) 968-0397
Photo of Olivia Baggett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dunwoody, GA
Olivia Baggett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Hey, Hey! I’m excited to meet you! I work with adolescents and adults experiencing a broad range of life experiences including anxiety, depression, perfectionism, launching, interpersonal conflict, familial dysfunction, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I believe therapy is for everyone and lean strongly on my ability to authentically connect with my clients.
Hey, Hey! I’m excited to meet you! I work with adolescents and adults experiencing a broad range of life experiences including anxiety, depression, perfectionism, launching, interpersonal conflict, familial dysfunction, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I believe therapy is for everyone and lean strongly on my ability to authentically connect with my clients.
(470) 748-2989 View (470) 748-2989
Photo of Taharah Shakur, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dunwoody, GA
Taharah Shakur
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
In my youthful years I was angry and didn’t possess the words or space to articulate my experience. Instead, I carried around this energy that weighed on me. Intuitively, I knew early on that my thoughts played a role in how I felt so I found solace and relief in writing them down. This introspective practice allowed me to connect to my feelings and with the help of some very patient guides sent to my life, I was able to find my voice, identify the origins of my pain, and embrace the gravity of how outside factors impacted my internal state.
In my youthful years I was angry and didn’t possess the words or space to articulate my experience. Instead, I carried around this energy that weighed on me. Intuitively, I knew early on that my thoughts played a role in how I felt so I found solace and relief in writing them down. This introspective practice allowed me to connect to my feelings and with the help of some very patient guides sent to my life, I was able to find my voice, identify the origins of my pain, and embrace the gravity of how outside factors impacted my internal state.
(678) 892-8491 View (678) 892-8491
Photo of Sara Mahan, Psychologist in Dunwoody, GA
Sara Mahan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
For toddlers, children, and teenagers, I provide testing (psychological or psychoeducational) and therapy for a range of presenting concerns such as neurodevelopmental (such as ASD, ADHD), anxiety, academic, problem behavior (e.g., aggression, self-hitting/biting, stereotypies), and more. I use results of testing to inform therapy which is individualized to best meet the needs of your child and family. I have a specialty working with toddlers, children, caregivers, and people of all ages with Autism Spectrum Disorders and/or Intellectual Disabilities for testing and therapy.
For toddlers, children, and teenagers, I provide testing (psychological or psychoeducational) and therapy for a range of presenting concerns such as neurodevelopmental (such as ASD, ADHD), anxiety, academic, problem behavior (e.g., aggression, self-hitting/biting, stereotypies), and more. I use results of testing to inform therapy which is individualized to best meet the needs of your child and family. I have a specialty working with toddlers, children, caregivers, and people of all ages with Autism Spectrum Disorders and/or Intellectual Disabilities for testing and therapy.
(678) 647-1532 View (678) 647-1532
Photo of Amekia Lawson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Amekia Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Hello! My name is Amekia, and I am a licensed professional counselor in Georgia. I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Masters's degree in Professional Counseling. I believe in using a client-centered approach and feel that it is important to establish a great rapport and relationship with each client and that we can learn from one another. I also feel that it is my job to be a support system and guide for you as you journey along the path of finding yourself again or growing.
Hello! My name is Amekia, and I am a licensed professional counselor in Georgia. I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Masters's degree in Professional Counseling. I believe in using a client-centered approach and feel that it is important to establish a great rapport and relationship with each client and that we can learn from one another. I also feel that it is my job to be a support system and guide for you as you journey along the path of finding yourself again or growing.
(229) 518-6296 View (229) 518-6296
Photo of Sunamita Tuple, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Sunamita Tuple
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
"I believe, in each of us, there is an inherent need to be understood and accepted and that psychotherapy involves building a caring relationship in which clients feel safe and at ease. My goal for our time together is to help you better understand yourself, understand patters behind the choices you make and equip you with coping skills that will enable you to more effectively deal with life stressors."
"I believe, in each of us, there is an inherent need to be understood and accepted and that psychotherapy involves building a caring relationship in which clients feel safe and at ease. My goal for our time together is to help you better understand yourself, understand patters behind the choices you make and equip you with coping skills that will enable you to more effectively deal with life stressors."
(678) 929-4679 View (678) 929-4679
Photo of Heather Wheeler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dunwoody, GA
Heather Wheeler
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Heather believes each person’s deepest desire is to be seen and known. Sometimes therapy is the first safe space to try this out. In therapy, Heather meets Adults (aged 18-80), Couples, Families, and Teens (12+) where they are in hopes to come alongside them and understand them holistically. She utilizes a Humanistic and Attachment-based approach to create a non-judgmental space, and to understand each person within their unique relational and systemic contexts. Heather hopes to see clients come to know themselves better, find hope and healing within their stories, and to encourage them to live within their values.
Heather believes each person’s deepest desire is to be seen and known. Sometimes therapy is the first safe space to try this out. In therapy, Heather meets Adults (aged 18-80), Couples, Families, and Teens (12+) where they are in hopes to come alongside them and understand them holistically. She utilizes a Humanistic and Attachment-based approach to create a non-judgmental space, and to understand each person within their unique relational and systemic contexts. Heather hopes to see clients come to know themselves better, find hope and healing within their stories, and to encourage them to live within their values.
(678) 893-5300 View (678) 893-5300
Photo of Nicolanne Smith Eustace, Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Nicolanne Smith Eustace
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
As a child and adolescent therapist, I acknowledge the joys and the challenges we as parents often experience. By working with children and their parents as a family system, there is an increase in the overall efficacy of treatment. Often, many of our struggles as a family stem from our ability to fully understand each others' experiences and view points. Learning to communicate more effectively, regulate emotions, and be more mindful in our every day lives can drastically improve our personal and familial experiences.
As a child and adolescent therapist, I acknowledge the joys and the challenges we as parents often experience. By working with children and their parents as a family system, there is an increase in the overall efficacy of treatment. Often, many of our struggles as a family stem from our ability to fully understand each others' experiences and view points. Learning to communicate more effectively, regulate emotions, and be more mindful in our every day lives can drastically improve our personal and familial experiences.
(678) 263-7486 View (678) 263-7486
Photo of Janette Berne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Janette Berne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30350
PLEASE NOTE: OFFERING BOTH IN-PERSON AND ONLINE SESSIONS. Therapy is an investment of time, energy and money. When done well, the results can be life-changing. Having had decades of experience working with individuals and families in Atlanta, I'm in a unique position to help you discover and implement the solutions you need. Pulling from a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities, I'm able to serve many different clients. I use creative methods to engage clients under 11. Combining experience and specialized training, I can help you work through personal issues and maintain more satisfying family and personal relationships.
PLEASE NOTE: OFFERING BOTH IN-PERSON AND ONLINE SESSIONS. Therapy is an investment of time, energy and money. When done well, the results can be life-changing. Having had decades of experience working with individuals and families in Atlanta, I'm in a unique position to help you discover and implement the solutions you need. Pulling from a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities, I'm able to serve many different clients. I use creative methods to engage clients under 11. Combining experience and specialized training, I can help you work through personal issues and maintain more satisfying family and personal relationships.
(770) 651-0376 View (770) 651-0376
Photo of Wendy S Dubin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dunwoody, GA
Wendy S Dubin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
I am an experienced and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor an Marriage and Family Therapist with over thirty years of experience. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I also supervise and train other counselors who are working towards their licensure.
I am an experienced and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor an Marriage and Family Therapist with over thirty years of experience. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I also supervise and train other counselors who are working towards their licensure.
(770) 395-6496 View (770) 395-6496
Photo of Neal Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Neal Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult for us all, but does it seem tougher on you at times? Maybe there actually IS something making life more challenging. Do you sometimes have feelings of guilt, shame, hopelessness, or panic, but can't identify the causes of these? Do you suffer from sleep problems, low energy, stomach issues, or muscle tension that you can't explain? Do you have trouble concentrating or have racing thoughts that are impossible to control? These are just some of the ways that anxiety and depression affects us. Add in daily stress or unresolved trauma and it can become challenging or even impossible to cope with daily life.
Life can be difficult for us all, but does it seem tougher on you at times? Maybe there actually IS something making life more challenging. Do you sometimes have feelings of guilt, shame, hopelessness, or panic, but can't identify the causes of these? Do you suffer from sleep problems, low energy, stomach issues, or muscle tension that you can't explain? Do you have trouble concentrating or have racing thoughts that are impossible to control? These are just some of the ways that anxiety and depression affects us. Add in daily stress or unresolved trauma and it can become challenging or even impossible to cope with daily life.
(470) 274-3835 View (470) 274-3835
Photo of Ellen Atkeson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Ellen Atkeson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
All of us have experiences, feelings, and behaviors we cannot always explain, control, or understand about ourselves. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity to learn about our feelings, thoughts, behaviors, experiences, and develop healthier coping skills so that we can feel better about ourselves and interact more effectively in the world around us. In our work together I will offer you strategies to enhance your life through the use of mindfulness, behavioral, and cognitive techniques. My approach is direct, compassionate, empowering, and non-judgmental.
All of us have experiences, feelings, and behaviors we cannot always explain, control, or understand about ourselves. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity to learn about our feelings, thoughts, behaviors, experiences, and develop healthier coping skills so that we can feel better about ourselves and interact more effectively in the world around us. In our work together I will offer you strategies to enhance your life through the use of mindfulness, behavioral, and cognitive techniques. My approach is direct, compassionate, empowering, and non-judgmental.
(404) 996-1758 View (404) 996-1758
Photo of Kevin Crabtree, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Kevin Crabtree
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Hello, My name is Kevin Crabtree. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of GA. I have 17 years of experience working as a therapist in a variety of setting from at-risk children and families in rural areas, federal and state prisoners, the foster care and juvenile justice system, and military service members and their families. For many years, I've worked mostly in a solution-focused model with clients who were struggling with adjustment issues of some kind. In the military, this often included moving or deployment/ reintegration. and the challenges this created in families/ marriages and friendships.
Hello, My name is Kevin Crabtree. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of GA. I have 17 years of experience working as a therapist in a variety of setting from at-risk children and families in rural areas, federal and state prisoners, the foster care and juvenile justice system, and military service members and their families. For many years, I've worked mostly in a solution-focused model with clients who were struggling with adjustment issues of some kind. In the military, this often included moving or deployment/ reintegration. and the challenges this created in families/ marriages and friendships.
(404) 882-5722 View (404) 882-5722
Photo of Jessica Northcutt, Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Jessica Northcutt
Counselor, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
It takes courage to ask for help, and I am so glad you are here. Humans are built for connection; we were never meant to carry our burdens alone. I believe that pain is inevitable in this life, so I want to create an environment that allows you to process that pain and discover your most authentic, healthiest self.
It takes courage to ask for help, and I am so glad you are here. Humans are built for connection; we were never meant to carry our burdens alone. I believe that pain is inevitable in this life, so I want to create an environment that allows you to process that pain and discover your most authentic, healthiest self.
(404) 467-5719 View (404) 467-5719
Photo of Jo DeVane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dunwoody, GA
Jo DeVane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30346
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) who specializes in partnering with individuals, couples, and families to work toward healing from eating disorders (including ARFID) and other related or co-occurring mental health and emotional concerns. I am Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 trained and have experience working at inpatient, residential, and partial hospitalization levels of care, as well as experience working with families with DFCS involvement and children in the foster care system.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) who specializes in partnering with individuals, couples, and families to work toward healing from eating disorders (including ARFID) and other related or co-occurring mental health and emotional concerns. I am Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 trained and have experience working at inpatient, residential, and partial hospitalization levels of care, as well as experience working with families with DFCS involvement and children in the foster care system.
(678) 541-8219 View (678) 541-8219
Photo of Erin Mills, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dunwoody, GA
Erin Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
I am passionate about working with people with substance abuse concerns, trauma, family conflict, and difficulty coping. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to make any difficult life experience more manageable while gently guiding my clients and their families towards the life they want and see for themselves. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults utilizing a client-centered, supportive approach. I strive to make my office a safe, judgement-free space where my clients can discuss their struggles and get the support they need.
I am passionate about working with people with substance abuse concerns, trauma, family conflict, and difficulty coping. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I strive to make any difficult life experience more manageable while gently guiding my clients and their families towards the life they want and see for themselves. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults utilizing a client-centered, supportive approach. I strive to make my office a safe, judgement-free space where my clients can discuss their struggles and get the support they need.
(470) 221-2588 View (470) 221-2588
Photo of Trenice Morton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dunwoody, GA
Trenice Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30346  (Online Only)
What if you could learn how to thrive under the conditions, circumstances, and situations life has placed you in? What if you could find yourself one day moving beyond the people, traumas, situations, setbacks, losses, mistakes, etc. and could feel as if you were truly thriving in life again? What if you could find a way to thrive not just in the end, but in each part of your healing or recovery process until you feel you've truly overcome the very thing(s) you never thought you could? As your therapist, I'm here to offer you that hope, support, guidance, and encouragement as you navigate through it all.
What if you could learn how to thrive under the conditions, circumstances, and situations life has placed you in? What if you could find yourself one day moving beyond the people, traumas, situations, setbacks, losses, mistakes, etc. and could feel as if you were truly thriving in life again? What if you could find a way to thrive not just in the end, but in each part of your healing or recovery process until you feel you've truly overcome the very thing(s) you never thought you could? As your therapist, I'm here to offer you that hope, support, guidance, and encouragement as you navigate through it all.
(470) 635-3782 View (470) 635-3782
Photo of Jenny Barwick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Jenny Barwick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Are you depressed? Do you feel alone in a room full of people? Do you find yourself wanting to cry but not knowing why? My favorite quote is, "The opposite of depression is not happiness, but vitality" and I wholeheartedly believe in it. Depression does not discriminate. I specialize in depression treatment among different populations- infertility, perinatal mood disorders, older adults, and midlife adults. Another speciality includes caregiving and different types of grief. You don't have to do this alone. I believe therapy makes the world a better place and you are brave for seeking help.
Are you depressed? Do you feel alone in a room full of people? Do you find yourself wanting to cry but not knowing why? My favorite quote is, "The opposite of depression is not happiness, but vitality" and I wholeheartedly believe in it. Depression does not discriminate. I specialize in depression treatment among different populations- infertility, perinatal mood disorders, older adults, and midlife adults. Another speciality includes caregiving and different types of grief. You don't have to do this alone. I believe therapy makes the world a better place and you are brave for seeking help.
(770) 637-7266 View (770) 637-7266
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dunwoody, GA
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(404) 941-1903 x1 View (404) 941-1903 x1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Dunwoody, GA

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Dunwoody, GA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
67% Stress
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
74% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Dunwoody, GA see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Dunwoody?

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.