Therapists in Eagan, MN

Photo of Abigail Moline, Pre-Licensed Professional in Eagan, MN
Abigail Moline
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
The heart of my practice revolves around walking with others through difficult life transitions, finding strength in moments where we feel burdened and broken, as well as working through past traumatic experiences to find internal peace and freedom. No matter what walk of life, I look forward to assisting through your journey of healing and self-discovery.
The heart of my practice revolves around walking with others through difficult life transitions, finding strength in moments where we feel burdened and broken, as well as working through past traumatic experiences to find internal peace and freedom. No matter what walk of life, I look forward to assisting through your journey of healing and self-discovery.
(952) 522-5262 View (952) 522-5262
Photo of Alexandria Ryanne Robison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eagan, MN
Alexandria Ryanne Robison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
I have been working to build my caseload in the areas of grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I work well with clients that struggle with identifying purpose and goals, and need help with direction. It is important to me to engage with my clients in an empathetic, kind, and gentle way.
I have been working to build my caseload in the areas of grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I work well with clients that struggle with identifying purpose and goals, and need help with direction. It is important to me to engage with my clients in an empathetic, kind, and gentle way.
(952) 900-4184 View (952) 900-4184
Photo of Diane R Grinnell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eagan, MN
Diane R Grinnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEdS, LICSW, LSP, LSSW
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
I am an Educational Psychologist who has 30 years of experience in clinical, hospital, and school settings. My specialty areas include children, adolescents, and adults. Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy. Specific areas I treat include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Post concussion symptoms, Adjustment Disorders, eating disorders, Bipolar Affective Disorders, Autism Spectrum and Sensory Integration Disorders, learning disorders, and chronic mental health issues. I use DBT, CBT, Behavioral Therapies, Expanded Mindfulness strategies. I am also a certified pastor.
I am an Educational Psychologist who has 30 years of experience in clinical, hospital, and school settings. My specialty areas include children, adolescents, and adults. Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy. Specific areas I treat include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Post concussion symptoms, Adjustment Disorders, eating disorders, Bipolar Affective Disorders, Autism Spectrum and Sensory Integration Disorders, learning disorders, and chronic mental health issues. I use DBT, CBT, Behavioral Therapies, Expanded Mindfulness strategies. I am also a certified pastor.
(651) 504-0109 View (651) 504-0109
Photo of Arisa Lyseng, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagan, MN
Arisa Lyseng
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! My name is Arisa Lyseng (she/her) and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I work to create a safe, encouraging, and restorative environment where we can build a strong therapeutic relationship. I use a person-centered approach in therapy to meet you where you are at and understand your worldview through your experiences. I will collaborate with you on exploring your hopes and needs. Through our work together I hope to bring in curiosity, new skills, new insight, and self-discovery for you.
Welcome! My name is Arisa Lyseng (she/her) and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I work to create a safe, encouraging, and restorative environment where we can build a strong therapeutic relationship. I use a person-centered approach in therapy to meet you where you are at and understand your worldview through your experiences. I will collaborate with you on exploring your hopes and needs. Through our work together I hope to bring in curiosity, new skills, new insight, and self-discovery for you.
(952) 592-3427 View (952) 592-3427
Photo of Annie E Emanuel, Psychologist in Eagan, MN
Annie E Emanuel
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55121
Each of us experience times in our lives in which our problems seem overwhelming. We may become stuck in the same patterns of dealing with challenges. By working collaboratively with clients through therapy or psychological assessment, my goal is to help each of my clients become "unstuck" and create positive change. Therapeutic relationships built on trust & respect are imperative to the success of any therapeutic intervention. I strive to create a warm & safe environment in which client's can feel more comfortable telling their stories & exploring the issues for which they are seeking support.
Each of us experience times in our lives in which our problems seem overwhelming. We may become stuck in the same patterns of dealing with challenges. By working collaboratively with clients through therapy or psychological assessment, my goal is to help each of my clients become "unstuck" and create positive change. Therapeutic relationships built on trust & respect are imperative to the success of any therapeutic intervention. I strive to create a warm & safe environment in which client's can feel more comfortable telling their stories & exploring the issues for which they are seeking support.
(651) 401-8737 x3 View (651) 401-8737 x3
Photo of Katie E. Heckman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eagan, MN
Katie E. Heckman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
“..Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars” -Martin Luther King, Jr. It may be a dark time in your life or you may be unable to see your own goodness buried deep inside. Possibly you just want to explore what makes you happy and alive. There are so many reasons to seek out counseling and it is because of those reasons I became a therapist. I'm naturally curious about human nature. That, along with my knowledge of mind and body, neuroscience of the brain, and over 20 years of therapy experience, I can help you find the answers you are searching for.
“..Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars” -Martin Luther King, Jr. It may be a dark time in your life or you may be unable to see your own goodness buried deep inside. Possibly you just want to explore what makes you happy and alive. There are so many reasons to seek out counseling and it is because of those reasons I became a therapist. I'm naturally curious about human nature. That, along with my knowledge of mind and body, neuroscience of the brain, and over 20 years of therapy experience, I can help you find the answers you are searching for.
(651) 237-8927 View (651) 237-8927
Photo of Emily Schmidt, Counselor in Eagan, MN
Emily Schmidt
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
Counseling is about a collaborative process to propel clients towards healthier, more grounded, and at peace versions of themselves. I work with adults on a variety of issues including stage of life transitions, perfectionism/people pleasing, anxiety, boundary setting, and communication skills. The counseling process is often times about helping clients uncover and discover the tools they already posses to tackle life's challenges.
Counseling is about a collaborative process to propel clients towards healthier, more grounded, and at peace versions of themselves. I work with adults on a variety of issues including stage of life transitions, perfectionism/people pleasing, anxiety, boundary setting, and communication skills. The counseling process is often times about helping clients uncover and discover the tools they already posses to tackle life's challenges.
(651) 383-1843 View (651) 383-1843
Photo of Leslie Levine Adler, Psychologist in Eagan, MN
Leslie Levine Adler
Psychologist, PhD, LP, EMDR, Consult
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122  (Online Only)
I am semi-retired, currently taking a few clients short-term on teletherapy, that is up to 8 sessions. Sessions are self-pay. For clients dealing with an acute situation or a past recent trauma, this can work very well. In our initial conversation, we will discuss whether short-term therapy would be appropriate for you. I use primarily EMDR and trauma informed therapy. In addition, I apply a strength-based model rooted in attachment theory and lessons learned from mindfulness, CBT and ACT. These are all therapies to empower the individual to cope with symptoms without being defined by them.
I am semi-retired, currently taking a few clients short-term on teletherapy, that is up to 8 sessions. Sessions are self-pay. For clients dealing with an acute situation or a past recent trauma, this can work very well. In our initial conversation, we will discuss whether short-term therapy would be appropriate for you. I use primarily EMDR and trauma informed therapy. In addition, I apply a strength-based model rooted in attachment theory and lessons learned from mindfulness, CBT and ACT. These are all therapies to empower the individual to cope with symptoms without being defined by them.
(952) 592-8047 View (952) 592-8047
Photo of Andrea Overall Rick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eagan, MN
Andrea Overall Rick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
Therapy is a very personal process and it's important to find the right therapist to guide you in your journey. My clinical approach is to create an accepting and supportive space for people to build on their own strength, resiliency and enhance their ability to live healthy and happy lives. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults and families who are struggling with traumatic experiences, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and challenging family dynamics.
Therapy is a very personal process and it's important to find the right therapist to guide you in your journey. My clinical approach is to create an accepting and supportive space for people to build on their own strength, resiliency and enhance their ability to live healthy and happy lives. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults and families who are struggling with traumatic experiences, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and challenging family dynamics.
(952) 295-3924 View (952) 295-3924
Photo of Allie Wood, Pre-Licensed Professional in Eagan, MN
Allie Wood
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
I am a mental health intern on the LPCC track at Adler Graduate School. My areas of interest are complex trauma, PTSD, Spiritual Abuse, women’s issues, and narcissistic abuse. As children, dreams, hopes, and goals often come naturally. Life has a way of taking our dreams and leaving us searching for purpose. I believe therapy is a self-exploration journey with me beside you as a safe, supportive guide. We will work together to determine the best path for your journey. I utilize mindfulness, brain spotting and trauma work to help you reconnect with your body and help you feel at home in yourself.
I am a mental health intern on the LPCC track at Adler Graduate School. My areas of interest are complex trauma, PTSD, Spiritual Abuse, women’s issues, and narcissistic abuse. As children, dreams, hopes, and goals often come naturally. Life has a way of taking our dreams and leaving us searching for purpose. I believe therapy is a self-exploration journey with me beside you as a safe, supportive guide. We will work together to determine the best path for your journey. I utilize mindfulness, brain spotting and trauma work to help you reconnect with your body and help you feel at home in yourself.
(952) 260-0158 View (952) 260-0158
Photo of Michael Proebstle, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Eagan, MN
Michael Proebstle
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Confused, worried, hurting, sad, broken trust, feeling lost? Not feeling okay? Find HOPE here for your life and struggles with anger, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or other problems we all face from time to time. Hope, peace, and healing in the midst of your pain can be found through a compassionate experience in therapy. Working on my own hurts including loss and attachment issues, I know that there is hope for peace, recovery and healing despite deep wounds from the past. I love watching people's lives transition from hurt to hope. Regardless of your struggles, abundant peace is awaiting you.
Confused, worried, hurting, sad, broken trust, feeling lost? Not feeling okay? Find HOPE here for your life and struggles with anger, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or other problems we all face from time to time. Hope, peace, and healing in the midst of your pain can be found through a compassionate experience in therapy. Working on my own hurts including loss and attachment issues, I know that there is hope for peace, recovery and healing despite deep wounds from the past. I love watching people's lives transition from hurt to hope. Regardless of your struggles, abundant peace is awaiting you.
(612) 712-6967 View (612) 712-6967
Photo of Austin Jacobsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eagan, MN
Austin Jacobsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Austin believes that we are all searching for our own meaning in life, and that we make our own meaning. Stemming from a person-centered standpoint, he meets people where they are, holding space and walking with clients down their own paths as a guest in their personal journey. He combines an Adlerian and existential framework with cognitive behavioral, EMDR, and solution focused techniques to assist clients in making meaningful changes in their lives, tapping into the client’s inner strengths along the way. Austin also uses revolutionary methods incorporating technology and virtual reality into session.
Austin believes that we are all searching for our own meaning in life, and that we make our own meaning. Stemming from a person-centered standpoint, he meets people where they are, holding space and walking with clients down their own paths as a guest in their personal journey. He combines an Adlerian and existential framework with cognitive behavioral, EMDR, and solution focused techniques to assist clients in making meaningful changes in their lives, tapping into the client’s inner strengths along the way. Austin also uses revolutionary methods incorporating technology and virtual reality into session.
(952) 900-5901 View (952) 900-5901
Photo of Bridget Couderc, Counselor in Eagan, MN
Bridget Couderc
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and DBT-Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. DBT is a mindfulness-based therapy model designed to teach people how to cope with stress, live in the moment, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. At times, I utilize additional modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), motivational interviewing and Art Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and DBT-Prolonged Exposure for PTSD. DBT is a mindfulness-based therapy model designed to teach people how to cope with stress, live in the moment, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. At times, I utilize additional modalities including CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), motivational interviewing and Art Therapy.
(651) 364-3326 View (651) 364-3326
Photo of Dr Brecke Counseling Group - Cicely Matz LPCC, Counselor in Eagan, MN
Dr Brecke Counseling Group - Cicely Matz LPCC
Counselor, LPCC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55123
Over the years I have been in practice I have found that client’s often come to therapy because, simply put, they need real feedback. One of my biggest goals as a therapist is to offer clients information and a clinically informed perspective that goes beyond what they can google on their own. One comment I have received more than any other in my career is that client’s are appreciative that I offer a genuinely alternative perspective rather than only asking questions. I have had the privilege of working with many people from many backgrounds and because of this often I am able to offer a very versatile perspective to clients.
Over the years I have been in practice I have found that client’s often come to therapy because, simply put, they need real feedback. One of my biggest goals as a therapist is to offer clients information and a clinically informed perspective that goes beyond what they can google on their own. One comment I have received more than any other in my career is that client’s are appreciative that I offer a genuinely alternative perspective rather than only asking questions. I have had the privilege of working with many people from many backgrounds and because of this often I am able to offer a very versatile perspective to clients.
(952) 522-4853 View (952) 522-4853
Photo of Dr Brecke Counseling Group, Counselor in Eagan, MN
Dr Brecke Counseling Group
Counselor, DMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55123
Welcome to Dr Brecke Counseling Group! Please check out the most detailed info on our website at www.breckecounseling.com. We are all fully licensed clinicians with a variety of specialties to meet most mental health needs. We treat adolescents, adults, couples and families. The clinic is offering tele-therapy and in-office visits with afternoon and evenings available. We are a unique as we are owner operated and offer a personal, attentive experience from the first click on our "apppointment request" botton. The phone is not answered due to high number of unsolicited sales calls. Please click on our website link to get started.
Welcome to Dr Brecke Counseling Group! Please check out the most detailed info on our website at www.breckecounseling.com. We are all fully licensed clinicians with a variety of specialties to meet most mental health needs. We treat adolescents, adults, couples and families. The clinic is offering tele-therapy and in-office visits with afternoon and evenings available. We are a unique as we are owner operated and offer a personal, attentive experience from the first click on our "apppointment request" botton. The phone is not answered due to high number of unsolicited sales calls. Please click on our website link to get started.
(651) 409-9887 View (651) 409-9887
Photo of Jack Sparks, Pre-Licensed Professional in Eagan, MN
Jack Sparks
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients ages 12 and up. I have special passions for treating folks struggling with disordered eating patterns, negative self talk, symptoms of post traumatic stress, self harm, and suicidal ideation: if you feel like life isn't worth living, I want to explore that with you. Instead of shutting it down, let's built a life you DO experience as worth living. As a transgender and autistic therapist I love to work with clients looking to explore and process gender, sexual orientation, and/or neurodivergence.
I work with clients ages 12 and up. I have special passions for treating folks struggling with disordered eating patterns, negative self talk, symptoms of post traumatic stress, self harm, and suicidal ideation: if you feel like life isn't worth living, I want to explore that with you. Instead of shutting it down, let's built a life you DO experience as worth living. As a transgender and autistic therapist I love to work with clients looking to explore and process gender, sexual orientation, and/or neurodivergence.
(952) 260-8995 View (952) 260-8995
Photo of Katie Lowe, Pre-Licensed Professional in Eagan, MN
Katie Lowe
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagan, MN 55122  (Online Only)
I am a marriage and family therapist in training attending Colorado Christian University and working under the supervision of LPCC Jenny Beall. I work with teens and adults seeking counseling for issues related to: general stress, anxiety, life transitions, career/academic stress, premarital counseling, and communication. Specific clients I enjoy working with are ministry staff, teenagers, college students, and young adults who are searching for healing, stress management, or help setting and meeting goals.
I am a marriage and family therapist in training attending Colorado Christian University and working under the supervision of LPCC Jenny Beall. I work with teens and adults seeking counseling for issues related to: general stress, anxiety, life transitions, career/academic stress, premarital counseling, and communication. Specific clients I enjoy working with are ministry staff, teenagers, college students, and young adults who are searching for healing, stress management, or help setting and meeting goals.
(952) 592-3980 View (952) 592-3980
Photo of Leslie Boyle-Milroy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Eagan, MN
Leslie Boyle-Milroy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, & families to build healthier, happier relationships with themselves and others and boost confidence and sense of self. I am also a Certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) Tapping Practitioner. I have expertise working with individuals managing stress and burnout. I work with my clients to help them design the lives they want - what barriers stand in their way? What strengths are already in place? I have a background in design, which informs my systemic focus & belief that we must look at mental health & relationship problems holistically. I work primarily with adults & teens.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, & families to build healthier, happier relationships with themselves and others and boost confidence and sense of self. I am also a Certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) Tapping Practitioner. I have expertise working with individuals managing stress and burnout. I work with my clients to help them design the lives they want - what barriers stand in their way? What strengths are already in place? I have a background in design, which informs my systemic focus & belief that we must look at mental health & relationship problems holistically. I work primarily with adults & teens.
(952) 900-4463 View (952) 900-4463
Photo of Greta Smylie, Counselor in Eagan, MN
Greta Smylie
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
I approach therapeutic work grounded in the belief that a person's desire to feel safe in therapy is crucial to their success in therapy. I believe that helping people live the life they imagined often requires an eclectic therapeutic approach. I work from the belief that each client has different needs that require different approaches. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered, systemic, and humanistic approaches. I firmly believes that living the life you desire is an ever-changing process. I am here to help guide you through your process and assist you in meeting your goals in therapy.
I approach therapeutic work grounded in the belief that a person's desire to feel safe in therapy is crucial to their success in therapy. I believe that helping people live the life they imagined often requires an eclectic therapeutic approach. I work from the belief that each client has different needs that require different approaches. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered, systemic, and humanistic approaches. I firmly believes that living the life you desire is an ever-changing process. I am here to help guide you through your process and assist you in meeting your goals in therapy.
(763) 225-3544 View (763) 225-3544
Photo of Emily Pavlik, Marriage & Family Therapist in Eagan, MN
Emily Pavlik
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Eagan, MN 55122
Waitlist for new clients
We don't always get to choose what life brings us. I work to help clients positively adapt and grow from the circumstances that they are given. This is accomplished by teaming up with clients to develop healthy ways to work through difficult situations. My goal is to create serenity and harmony for individuals and within relationships through using a non-judgemental, proactive, and direct approach.
We don't always get to choose what life brings us. I work to help clients positively adapt and grow from the circumstances that they are given. This is accomplished by teaming up with clients to develop healthy ways to work through difficult situations. My goal is to create serenity and harmony for individuals and within relationships through using a non-judgemental, proactive, and direct approach.
(651) 964-2146 View (651) 964-2146

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Eagan, MN

100+

Average cost per session

$170

Therapists in Eagan, MN who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
68% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% UCare
74% HealthPartners of MN and WI

How Therapists in Eagan, MN see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Eagan?

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.