Therapists in Lakewood, CO

Photo of Jesse Ortega, LPC Intern in Lakewood, CO
Jesse Ortega
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80232
Are you or have you ever been in a season of life where you feel isolated, stuck, overwhelmed, or just not feeling your best? You are not alone! Everyone has struggles, whether that be in relationships, friendships, marriage, or family dynamics. Facing hardships in life is not uncommon and is something you should never face alone or be ashamed of. Thus, seeking help is not a sign of weakness but instead one of the bravest actions you can take as a human being!
Are you or have you ever been in a season of life where you feel isolated, stuck, overwhelmed, or just not feeling your best? You are not alone! Everyone has struggles, whether that be in relationships, friendships, marriage, or family dynamics. Facing hardships in life is not uncommon and is something you should never face alone or be ashamed of. Thus, seeking help is not a sign of weakness but instead one of the bravest actions you can take as a human being!
(720) 772-8322 View (720) 772-8322
Photo of Lia Sedgeley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, CO
Lia Sedgeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80226
Living life can be challenging. It's my goal to offer a safe place for individuals to focus on healing, revitalizing, and becoming aware of our inner strengths for personal growth. Depression, anxiety, and uncertainty are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions we can experience. Together, we can join to reclaim the motivation, views, and joy you once had.
Living life can be challenging. It's my goal to offer a safe place for individuals to focus on healing, revitalizing, and becoming aware of our inner strengths for personal growth. Depression, anxiety, and uncertainty are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions we can experience. Together, we can join to reclaim the motivation, views, and joy you once had.
(303) 816-3881 View (303) 816-3881
Photo of Yazmine Greco in Lakewood, CO
Yazmine Greco
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Yazmine Moore (she/her/hers) obtained her Master of Social Work from the University of Denver, with a concentration in Mental Health. She holds a certificate in Trauma from the University of Denver and utilizes a trauma-informed approach when working with clients. Yazmine is also an Adult Associate Level Treatment Provider with the Colorado Sex Offender Management Board (SOMB) and specializes in providing therapeutic treatment and intervention for individuals struggling with sexual behaviors, sexual disorders and sexual offending, while utilizing a victim-centered approach.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Yazmine Moore (she/her/hers) obtained her Master of Social Work from the University of Denver, with a concentration in Mental Health. She holds a certificate in Trauma from the University of Denver and utilizes a trauma-informed approach when working with clients. Yazmine is also an Adult Associate Level Treatment Provider with the Colorado Sex Offender Management Board (SOMB) and specializes in providing therapeutic treatment and intervention for individuals struggling with sexual behaviors, sexual disorders and sexual offending, while utilizing a victim-centered approach.
(720) 707-2852 View (720) 707-2852
Photo of Bri Overmyer (E-M-D-R Trained), Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Lakewood, CO
Bri Overmyer (E-M-D-R Trained)
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Schedule instantly through my website! Link in my bio. Hello, I'm Bri, a Licensed Addiction Counselor and the owner of Learn to Breathe, LLC. I am deeply committed to supporting both adolescents and adults on their journey toward healing and well-being. My expertise lies in the treatment of co-occurring disorders, where one struggles with both mental health and substance use simultaneously. With over seven years of experience, my approach is centered on understanding the delicate balance between mental health and substance use, guiding my clients towards a path of resilience and recovery.
Schedule instantly through my website! Link in my bio. Hello, I'm Bri, a Licensed Addiction Counselor and the owner of Learn to Breathe, LLC. I am deeply committed to supporting both adolescents and adults on their journey toward healing and well-being. My expertise lies in the treatment of co-occurring disorders, where one struggles with both mental health and substance use simultaneously. With over seven years of experience, my approach is centered on understanding the delicate balance between mental health and substance use, guiding my clients towards a path of resilience and recovery.
(303) 536-8980 View (303) 536-8980
Photo of Noelle Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lakewood, CO
Noelle Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226
I help my clients discover how to become the best versions of themselves through empathic listening, transparency, and acceptance. I value working collaboratively with clients and providing genuine support to achieve goals and self-growth as well as creating a safe space for everyone to feel heard and seen. I incorporate various counseling methods into each session, primarily using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to look at the relationship between our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, and Existential Theory, to bring focus to our responsibilities for decision making and explore your lived experiences authentically and honestly.
I help my clients discover how to become the best versions of themselves through empathic listening, transparency, and acceptance. I value working collaboratively with clients and providing genuine support to achieve goals and self-growth as well as creating a safe space for everyone to feel heard and seen. I incorporate various counseling methods into each session, primarily using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to look at the relationship between our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, and Existential Theory, to bring focus to our responsibilities for decision making and explore your lived experiences authentically and honestly.
(720) 545-0583 View (720) 545-0583
Photo of Reed McIntyre, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, CO
Reed McIntyre
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello, My name is Reed McIntyre and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Colorado. I have over 7 years of experience in the mental health field in a variety of settings including public schools, community mental health, inpatient, and crisis. I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, interpersonal relationships, or just having a hard time finding their way.
Hello, My name is Reed McIntyre and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Colorado. I have over 7 years of experience in the mental health field in a variety of settings including public schools, community mental health, inpatient, and crisis. I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, interpersonal relationships, or just having a hard time finding their way.
(720) 796-8034 View (720) 796-8034
Photo of Kathleen Renee Koelsch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, CO
Kathleen Renee Koelsch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
My work with clients focuses on emotional distress, relationship issues, and spiritual conflict. I also support individuals struggling with their core sense-of-self, grief, and loss of desire and pleasure.
My work with clients focuses on emotional distress, relationship issues, and spiritual conflict. I also support individuals struggling with their core sense-of-self, grief, and loss of desire and pleasure.
(720) 784-8152 View (720) 784-8152
Photo of Mandy Vigil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, CO
Mandy Vigil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Schedule today through my website! > Link in bio. There are many reasons people seek out therapy. Often life can seem out of control, chaotic, and impossible to navigate. Other times people may feel stuck, lost, or overwhelmed with the turns life has taken. Life struggles are inevitable and sometimes people need additional support. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has worked with diverse populations ranging from children, adolescents to adults and families within settings such as outpatient facilities and clinics. I utilize a client centered, strength-based approach.
Schedule today through my website! > Link in bio. There are many reasons people seek out therapy. Often life can seem out of control, chaotic, and impossible to navigate. Other times people may feel stuck, lost, or overwhelmed with the turns life has taken. Life struggles are inevitable and sometimes people need additional support. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has worked with diverse populations ranging from children, adolescents to adults and families within settings such as outpatient facilities and clinics. I utilize a client centered, strength-based approach.
(720) 664-6966 View (720) 664-6966
Photo of Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, CO
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LAC, PMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 650-2525 View (720) 650-2525
Photo of Jennifer Head, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, CO
Jennifer Head
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80214  (Online Only)
I serve the states of: Colorado, Montana, and Kansas. When struggling with anxiety or stress small tasks, feel like mountains. Activities that used to bring you joy have become similar to your list of chores. A strong support system is crucial, people that care about your well-being and want to see you reach your goals. Therapy can be a powerful addition to your life. It provides a safe space for conversations to flow, in turn promoting validation, skill-building, goal-realization, and emotional-processing. Therapy has the ability to open the door for countless interpersonal and intrapersonal growth opportunities.
I serve the states of: Colorado, Montana, and Kansas. When struggling with anxiety or stress small tasks, feel like mountains. Activities that used to bring you joy have become similar to your list of chores. A strong support system is crucial, people that care about your well-being and want to see you reach your goals. Therapy can be a powerful addition to your life. It provides a safe space for conversations to flow, in turn promoting validation, skill-building, goal-realization, and emotional-processing. Therapy has the ability to open the door for countless interpersonal and intrapersonal growth opportunities.
(720) 702-4945 View (720) 702-4945
Photo of Lena Costalas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lakewood, CO
Lena Costalas
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80232
As a holistic therapist, I am dedicated to help my clients through mind, body, and spirit.
As a holistic therapist, I am dedicated to help my clients through mind, body, and spirit.
(303) 402-5660 View (303) 402-5660
Photo of Michael Heckendorn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, CO
Michael Heckendorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
My name is Michael Heckendorn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Colorado and a nationally certified counselor (NCC) through the National Board of Certified Counselors. I have nearly a decade of experience in the mental health field in a variety of settings, e.g., community mental health, universities, schools, and private practice. I specialize in adolescent and young adult complexities, helping people find their footing in often difficult times. Whether it be navigating anxiety or depression, or deciding what to do after a major life transition, I want to walk alongside my clients on their journey.
My name is Michael Heckendorn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Colorado and a nationally certified counselor (NCC) through the National Board of Certified Counselors. I have nearly a decade of experience in the mental health field in a variety of settings, e.g., community mental health, universities, schools, and private practice. I specialize in adolescent and young adult complexities, helping people find their footing in often difficult times. Whether it be navigating anxiety or depression, or deciding what to do after a major life transition, I want to walk alongside my clients on their journey.
(855) 906-3015 View (855) 906-3015
Photo of Mickey Myers, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Lakewood, CO
Mickey Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226
I love making authentic connections by sharing the moments that make us human, from our deepest pain to our greatest joy. I strive to empower my clients to take charge of their own personal journey, because I believe that we are all innately capable of healing. As your therapist, my role is to guide you on this journey with compassion, humor, and creativity. I hope to reconnect my clients with themselves, their community, and our planet, because healing does not happen in isolation.
I love making authentic connections by sharing the moments that make us human, from our deepest pain to our greatest joy. I strive to empower my clients to take charge of their own personal journey, because I believe that we are all innately capable of healing. As your therapist, my role is to guide you on this journey with compassion, humor, and creativity. I hope to reconnect my clients with themselves, their community, and our planet, because healing does not happen in isolation.
(720) 615-2751 View (720) 615-2751
Photo of Jaquar Lovett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lakewood, CO
Jaquar Lovett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFTC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80235
Hello, My name is Jaquar Lovett. I'm a therapist that is experienced in helping clients on an individual and group level. Over the past decade I have worked in mental health helping people with different difficulties. I graduated with my master's in counseling and therapy with recognition in 3 different honor societies. In addition to my practice I also do assessments and services for state facilities. I've been trained to work with families, relationships, groups, and individuals of any age. My ideal clients are people that have noticed change is needed and want to their lives healthier.
Hello, My name is Jaquar Lovett. I'm a therapist that is experienced in helping clients on an individual and group level. Over the past decade I have worked in mental health helping people with different difficulties. I graduated with my master's in counseling and therapy with recognition in 3 different honor societies. In addition to my practice I also do assessments and services for state facilities. I've been trained to work with families, relationships, groups, and individuals of any age. My ideal clients are people that have noticed change is needed and want to their lives healthier.
(720) 743-4926 View (720) 743-4926
Photo of Cortnney Faulkner - Mountain Thrive Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, CO
Cortnney Faulkner - Mountain Thrive Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
With a deep commitment to integrating mind-body connections in therapy, I strive to create a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental space for clients to navigate challenges, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. I guide clients in the exploration of their thoughts, emotions, and physical experiences to foster a sense of balance. I use an integrative style, utilizing different evidence-based techniques. With your guidance, I can help you create goals that you or your child hope to achieve, and create a plan to reach these goals.
With a deep commitment to integrating mind-body connections in therapy, I strive to create a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental space for clients to navigate challenges, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. I guide clients in the exploration of their thoughts, emotions, and physical experiences to foster a sense of balance. I use an integrative style, utilizing different evidence-based techniques. With your guidance, I can help you create goals that you or your child hope to achieve, and create a plan to reach these goals.
(720) 943-7911 View (720) 943-7911
Photo of Megan Phippen - Somatic Sex And Relationship Therapist, Counselor in Lakewood, CO
Megan Phippen - Somatic Sex And Relationship Therapist
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
Are you longing for a deeper understanding of yourself, your sexuality, and your relationships? Are you ready to heal old wounds, explore your expression, and cultivate relationships that thrive? As a Somatic Sex and Relationship Counselor, I specialize in empowering individuals and couples who are hungry for more in life- more intimacy, more pleasure, and more authentic connection! Whether you're dealing with desire differences, healing from trauma, navigating relationship conflicts, or seeking to deepen your connection with yourself or a partner, together we will create a safe space for your exploration and transformation.
Are you longing for a deeper understanding of yourself, your sexuality, and your relationships? Are you ready to heal old wounds, explore your expression, and cultivate relationships that thrive? As a Somatic Sex and Relationship Counselor, I specialize in empowering individuals and couples who are hungry for more in life- more intimacy, more pleasure, and more authentic connection! Whether you're dealing with desire differences, healing from trauma, navigating relationship conflicts, or seeking to deepen your connection with yourself or a partner, together we will create a safe space for your exploration and transformation.
(720) 744-3464 View (720) 744-3464
Photo of Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Management, Counselor in Lakewood, CO
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Management
Counselor, MSW, MA, LCSW, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website link in bio! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website link in bio! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 796-4704 View (720) 796-4704
Photo of Katie Hersom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, CO
Katie Hersom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80401
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, school counselor, and psychotherapist with a passion for working with clients across all ages and backgrounds. I have experience working with clients ages eight and up regarding topics such as social anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, transitions, general anxiety, perinatal therapy, grief and loss, and stress management.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, school counselor, and psychotherapist with a passion for working with clients across all ages and backgrounds. I have experience working with clients ages eight and up regarding topics such as social anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, transitions, general anxiety, perinatal therapy, grief and loss, and stress management.
(720) 782-6034 View (720) 782-6034
Photo of McKenna Mesak, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Lakewood, CO
McKenna Mesak
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
Are you hoping to engage in self-exploration & dig DEEPER into why you are the way you are? My clients often struggle with feeling connected to others AND themselves. They are motivated to address unhelpful patterns that they are currently stuck in & feel open to processing past traumas and setbacks that may be impacting HOW they show up with family, friends, co-workers & romantic partners. I firmly believe that therapy provides a safe space to courageously tackle what feels overwhelming & scary to navigate on their own, with the knowledge & tools of an unbiased, genuinely caring professional counselor.
Are you hoping to engage in self-exploration & dig DEEPER into why you are the way you are? My clients often struggle with feeling connected to others AND themselves. They are motivated to address unhelpful patterns that they are currently stuck in & feel open to processing past traumas and setbacks that may be impacting HOW they show up with family, friends, co-workers & romantic partners. I firmly believe that therapy provides a safe space to courageously tackle what feels overwhelming & scary to navigate on their own, with the knowledge & tools of an unbiased, genuinely caring professional counselor.
(720) 797-5051 View (720) 797-5051
Photo of Liliana Baylon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lakewood, CO
Liliana Baylon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, RPT-S, SPT, EMDR, EFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80214
Are you and your significan other feeling disconnected, struggling to communicate, or facing challenges? It's time to consider couples therapy a powerful tool to process, grow, and strengthen your bond. Couples therapy provides a safe and supportive space where both partners can express their thoughts and emotions openly, with the guidance of a trained professional. It offers an opportunity to understand each other's needs better, improve communication skills, and develop effective conflict-resolution strategies. Call to schedule an appoinment
Are you and your significan other feeling disconnected, struggling to communicate, or facing challenges? It's time to consider couples therapy a powerful tool to process, grow, and strengthen your bond. Couples therapy provides a safe and supportive space where both partners can express their thoughts and emotions openly, with the guidance of a trained professional. It offers an opportunity to understand each other's needs better, improve communication skills, and develop effective conflict-resolution strategies. Call to schedule an appoinment
(303) 647-9508 View (303) 647-9508

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lakewood, CO

700+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Lakewood, CO who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
79% Trauma and PTSD
78% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
72% Stress
71% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
72% Cigna and Evernorth
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Lakewood, CO see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
17% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lakewood?

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.