Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness in Winston Salem, NC
Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness
MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional heath and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional heath and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
(336) 750-6824 View (336) 750-6824
Photo of Chaka Burnett, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Chaka Burnett
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Hello - I’m glad our paths have crossed! My name is Chaka (yes, like Chaka Khan), and my goal is to work with you to overcome obstacles and issues that are interfering with your progress and passion in life. Resolving conflict, repairing relationships, healing from past trauma, building self-esteem, reversing dysfunctional patterns all assist in reaching this goal. I truly believe that, although people get hurt in relationships, it is also through relationships that people can heal. Change is not easy, but it is attainable and sustainable. As you embark on your healing journey, I will be here to see you through it.
Hello - I’m glad our paths have crossed! My name is Chaka (yes, like Chaka Khan), and my goal is to work with you to overcome obstacles and issues that are interfering with your progress and passion in life. Resolving conflict, repairing relationships, healing from past trauma, building self-esteem, reversing dysfunctional patterns all assist in reaching this goal. I truly believe that, although people get hurt in relationships, it is also through relationships that people can heal. Change is not easy, but it is attainable and sustainable. As you embark on your healing journey, I will be here to see you through it.
(336) 742-1171 View (336) 742-1171
Photo of Erin Jeffords Bonsall, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Erin Jeffords Bonsall
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I believe in the connection between our minds and bodies. The essence of taking care of ourselves involves processing emotions in a healthy way.
I believe in the connection between our minds and bodies. The essence of taking care of ourselves involves processing emotions in a healthy way.
(336) 747-3568 View (336) 747-3568
Photo of Katherine S Rives, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Katherine S Rives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Would you like to gain a better understanding of yourself, patterns of behaviors/ cycles of thinking- with the intention of creating a more fulfilling life? We will work together to establish a treatment plan that fits your goals and needs.
Would you like to gain a better understanding of yourself, patterns of behaviors/ cycles of thinking- with the intention of creating a more fulfilling life? We will work together to establish a treatment plan that fits your goals and needs.
(336) 360-3783 View (336) 360-3783
Photo of Megan Oakes, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Megan Oakes
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
So, you’ve made the choice to look for a therapist, but the options out there are vast and overwhelming. You’re looking for someone who is real; a therapist that isn’t just knowledgeable but has lived a life full of experiences where they too have faced life’s challenges head-on. You're hoping to find someone who is relatable and down to earth; someone who is just as human as you are. Hi, my name is Megan, and I’m really glad you’re here.
So, you’ve made the choice to look for a therapist, but the options out there are vast and overwhelming. You’re looking for someone who is real; a therapist that isn’t just knowledgeable but has lived a life full of experiences where they too have faced life’s challenges head-on. You're hoping to find someone who is relatable and down to earth; someone who is just as human as you are. Hi, my name is Megan, and I’m really glad you’re here.
(336) 502-8904 View (336) 502-8904
Photo of Claudia Danielle Robeson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Claudia Danielle Robeson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Are you feeling overwhelmed or do you know you have been in survival mode for a long time? Past life experiences such as childhood trauma, relationships (romantic/platonic) loss or abuse can create barriers. This leaves most people to deal with their feelings of guilt, shame, and disappointment alone. You deserve a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings and a great therapist to help you process your experiences and move towards your goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or do you know you have been in survival mode for a long time? Past life experiences such as childhood trauma, relationships (romantic/platonic) loss or abuse can create barriers. This leaves most people to deal with their feelings of guilt, shame, and disappointment alone. You deserve a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings and a great therapist to help you process your experiences and move towards your goals.
(336) 818-5546 View (336) 818-5546
Photo of Lisa A. Rainwater, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Lisa A. Rainwater
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, PhD, CCMHC, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Hello and welcome. You may be an individual or a couple seeking to understand how past attachments, fulfillments, and traumas inform your present with the hope of repairing and improving your relationship to Self and others. Or, you may feel lost and want to explore how to live life with intention, meaning, and authenticity. I help clients explore their attachment styles, grief, losses, and traumas with curiosity, mindfulness, and loving-kindness. It is a privilege to walk alongside clients, witnessing them blossom within this confidential, safe space of existential reflection, forgiveness, acceptance, and rebirth.
Hello and welcome. You may be an individual or a couple seeking to understand how past attachments, fulfillments, and traumas inform your present with the hope of repairing and improving your relationship to Self and others. Or, you may feel lost and want to explore how to live life with intention, meaning, and authenticity. I help clients explore their attachment styles, grief, losses, and traumas with curiosity, mindfulness, and loving-kindness. It is a privilege to walk alongside clients, witnessing them blossom within this confidential, safe space of existential reflection, forgiveness, acceptance, and rebirth.
(336) 564-6513 View (336) 564-6513
Photo of Sydney Elder, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Sydney Elder
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
You deserve to feel heard and understood. Life transitions, relationship challenges, and exploring your identity can be overwhelming and make us feel alone. Starting at a new school, beginning a new job, or moving to a new place can be exciting and also bring up things within ourselves that may be unexpected or distressing. You may be asking yourself: What makes me feel most like myself? What are other people thinking? It can feel impossible to determine if you're where you "should" be as you navigate everything else that comes with being a teenager, college student, or young adult.
You deserve to feel heard and understood. Life transitions, relationship challenges, and exploring your identity can be overwhelming and make us feel alone. Starting at a new school, beginning a new job, or moving to a new place can be exciting and also bring up things within ourselves that may be unexpected or distressing. You may be asking yourself: What makes me feel most like myself? What are other people thinking? It can feel impossible to determine if you're where you "should" be as you navigate everything else that comes with being a teenager, college student, or young adult.
(336) 933-4719 x1 View (336) 933-4719 x1
Photo of Robert Casares, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Robert Casares
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Not accepting new clients
Many of my clients come to counseling wanting to work through struggles, strengthen relationships, or process painful experiences. As a counselor, I strive to respond to the unique needs of my clients with genuineness, respect, and support. Over the past eight years, I have provided counseling to individuals, couples, and families for issues related to anxiety, depression, relational conflict, parenting struggles, managing stress, navigating career transitions, and coping with loss.
Many of my clients come to counseling wanting to work through struggles, strengthen relationships, or process painful experiences. As a counselor, I strive to respond to the unique needs of my clients with genuineness, respect, and support. Over the past eight years, I have provided counseling to individuals, couples, and families for issues related to anxiety, depression, relational conflict, parenting struggles, managing stress, navigating career transitions, and coping with loss.
(336) 652-3485 View (336) 652-3485
Photo of Courtney Deakle in Winston Salem, NC
Courtney Deakle
LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Welcome! If you are looking for a couples counselor to support you and your partner through a hard place in your relationship, I would love to help. I use a combination of Emotionally Focused couples counseling and Gottman Method couples counseling. Using well-researched and time-tested strategies, I will work with you and your partner to help you reconnect, and create a life together that is meaningful, joyful, and hopeful for both of you. I also work with families and individuals on a variety of mental health issues, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD/trauma.
Welcome! If you are looking for a couples counselor to support you and your partner through a hard place in your relationship, I would love to help. I use a combination of Emotionally Focused couples counseling and Gottman Method couples counseling. Using well-researched and time-tested strategies, I will work with you and your partner to help you reconnect, and create a life together that is meaningful, joyful, and hopeful for both of you. I also work with families and individuals on a variety of mental health issues, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD/trauma.
(336) 490-9103 View (336) 490-9103
Photo of Shanetra Lumar, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Shanetra Lumar
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Do you ever wonder what your life would have been like if that awful thing didn’t happen to you? Do you ever feel like no one understands what you’re going through? How about if one more bad thing happens, I might just fall apart? Life has a weird way of showing us that we are not in control. You may be someone who feels this is not how I envisioned my life would be or you may be feeling guilty about bad thoughts you’ve had or things you’ve said or done. I would like to assist you on the journey to the other side where you can experience peace, love and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
Do you ever wonder what your life would have been like if that awful thing didn’t happen to you? Do you ever feel like no one understands what you’re going through? How about if one more bad thing happens, I might just fall apart? Life has a weird way of showing us that we are not in control. You may be someone who feels this is not how I envisioned my life would be or you may be feeling guilty about bad thoughts you’ve had or things you’ve said or done. I would like to assist you on the journey to the other side where you can experience peace, love and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
(336) 975-8410 View (336) 975-8410
Photo of Tonjia Kiara Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Tonjia Kiara Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
Today is your day to make the decision to be a better you! Are you just existing and not living? Do you feel like something is missing? Do you feel like you are free falling? Is there an elephant in the room that you have not addressed? Are you losing a battle with your mind everyday? Do you feel stuck? Allow me to help guide you through these things. Just know that you are not alone and even the toughest warriors need strategy to fight through the war. Together, we can face these battles and find victory in blooming into the person you are meant to be.
Today is your day to make the decision to be a better you! Are you just existing and not living? Do you feel like something is missing? Do you feel like you are free falling? Is there an elephant in the room that you have not addressed? Are you losing a battle with your mind everyday? Do you feel stuck? Allow me to help guide you through these things. Just know that you are not alone and even the toughest warriors need strategy to fight through the war. Together, we can face these battles and find victory in blooming into the person you are meant to be.
(336) 585-8653 View (336) 585-8653
Photo of Tiffany Cagle-Schrift, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Tiffany Cagle-Schrift
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, BCN, QEEG-DL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Accepting day & evening clients. I work with a variety of clientele utilizing a person-centered approach, which means our sessions will start with you and your needs. Together, we will explore the issues that you bring to counseling in a holistic way, with emphasis on emotional and personal history perspectives. In our work together, it is expected that you will participate in the formation and completion of counseling goals so that our sessions will be meaningful and helpful to you. I have worked closely with clients with varying needs bringing enthusiasm, compassion and cross-cultural understanding to our work towards healing.
Accepting day & evening clients. I work with a variety of clientele utilizing a person-centered approach, which means our sessions will start with you and your needs. Together, we will explore the issues that you bring to counseling in a holistic way, with emphasis on emotional and personal history perspectives. In our work together, it is expected that you will participate in the formation and completion of counseling goals so that our sessions will be meaningful and helpful to you. I have worked closely with clients with varying needs bringing enthusiasm, compassion and cross-cultural understanding to our work towards healing.
(336) 396-5819 View (336) 396-5819
Photo of Hannah Grace Prevatt, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Hannah Grace Prevatt
Counselor, MS EdS, LCHMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27127
ABC of NC is a non-profit dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based diagnostic, therapeutic, and educational services to people with autism spectrum disorder; ensuring service accessibility to individuals from any economic background; offering support and hope to families; and advocating for inclusion and acceptance.
ABC of NC is a non-profit dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based diagnostic, therapeutic, and educational services to people with autism spectrum disorder; ensuring service accessibility to individuals from any economic background; offering support and hope to families; and advocating for inclusion and acceptance.
(336) 863-8487 View (336) 863-8487
Photo of Intentionally Transformed, Pastoral Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Intentionally Transformed
Pastoral Counselor, MA, CLC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I suffered the loss of two of my children and my heart was broken. I needed help. Have you suffered a loss and need to share with someone how you feel or maybe you don't really know how you feel? Let's talk! Many people suffer with challenges from life experiences such as death, loss, mental health, finances, careers, marriage and family. As a Christian Counselor and Life Coach, I will work collaboratively with you to integrate all aspects of the human experience - mind. body and spirit. Our time of sharing may include learning the art of thoughtful conflict and how to intentionally transform your life.
I suffered the loss of two of my children and my heart was broken. I needed help. Have you suffered a loss and need to share with someone how you feel or maybe you don't really know how you feel? Let's talk! Many people suffer with challenges from life experiences such as death, loss, mental health, finances, careers, marriage and family. As a Christian Counselor and Life Coach, I will work collaboratively with you to integrate all aspects of the human experience - mind. body and spirit. Our time of sharing may include learning the art of thoughtful conflict and how to intentionally transform your life.
(336) 502-5630 View (336) 502-5630
Photo of Claudia Davies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Claudia Davies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27107  (Online Only)
Hello there and welcome to my safe space. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I have several years of clinical experience working with individuals, families and groups of various ages, race, nationalities, and ethnicities. I have experience working in outpatient, psychiatric behavioral health, and hospice settings. Therapy is a partnership, and as partners, together, we will determine what therapeutic intervention(s) is best for you. My goal is to use what I know, to do what I can, to help you navigate and cope with life in whatever capacity that may look like for you.
Hello there and welcome to my safe space. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I have several years of clinical experience working with individuals, families and groups of various ages, race, nationalities, and ethnicities. I have experience working in outpatient, psychiatric behavioral health, and hospice settings. Therapy is a partnership, and as partners, together, we will determine what therapeutic intervention(s) is best for you. My goal is to use what I know, to do what I can, to help you navigate and cope with life in whatever capacity that may look like for you.
(336) 439-8786 View (336) 439-8786
Photo of Brittany Corcoran, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Brittany Corcoran
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor , LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
I believe we all have a path and purpose in life. Sometime we need help to overcome obstacles that block our way. I counsel all people, but I specialize in working with those who wish to explore their relationship with drugs and/or alcohol and their supports, survivors of sexual assault or trauma, and life transitions. At the heart of my practice is a genuine care for others, authenticity, and a little humor. I use Person-centered approaches, Mindfulness based techniques, and evidence-based modalities like CBT.
I believe we all have a path and purpose in life. Sometime we need help to overcome obstacles that block our way. I counsel all people, but I specialize in working with those who wish to explore their relationship with drugs and/or alcohol and their supports, survivors of sexual assault or trauma, and life transitions. At the heart of my practice is a genuine care for others, authenticity, and a little humor. I use Person-centered approaches, Mindfulness based techniques, and evidence-based modalities like CBT.
(336) 920-7393 View (336) 920-7393
Photo of Anna Costa, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Anna Costa
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101  (Online Only)
Thank you for considering working with me as your counselor. I work individually and in groups with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I approach counseling from a person-centered theoretical background, meaning I believe that each person has within themselves the tools to grow, change, heal and improve. It is my goal to help individuals access those personal resources and grow in their personal self-efficacy. Self-awareness and self-efficacy, while goals in the counseling relationship, are difficult to achieve and will take time, energy, and client engagement. Clients will feel that they are able to face life's challenges.
Thank you for considering working with me as your counselor. I work individually and in groups with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I approach counseling from a person-centered theoretical background, meaning I believe that each person has within themselves the tools to grow, change, heal and improve. It is my goal to help individuals access those personal resources and grow in their personal self-efficacy. Self-awareness and self-efficacy, while goals in the counseling relationship, are difficult to achieve and will take time, energy, and client engagement. Clients will feel that they are able to face life's challenges.
(336) 559-4108 View (336) 559-4108
Photo of M. Elizabeth Doub, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
M. Elizabeth Doub
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC, RYT200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
How can I help? I’m excited to work with motivated Clients moving towards their own unique goals-whether that is dealing with the stress of everyday life, coping with overwhelming emotions, healing past traumas, building self-esteem and communication skills, or fostering safe relationships. I teach and practice strategies proven to reduce distress and increase healthy functioning - using mindfulness, play, and person centered methods (among others) in our work together. I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I can't wait to meet you!
How can I help? I’m excited to work with motivated Clients moving towards their own unique goals-whether that is dealing with the stress of everyday life, coping with overwhelming emotions, healing past traumas, building self-esteem and communication skills, or fostering safe relationships. I teach and practice strategies proven to reduce distress and increase healthy functioning - using mindfulness, play, and person centered methods (among others) in our work together. I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I can't wait to meet you!
(336) 794-6877 View (336) 794-6877
Photo of Dr. Joshua Ziesel, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
Dr. Joshua Ziesel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
It can be frustrating to realize that you are "stuck" but have no idea how to become "unstuck." Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your relationships with others, dealing with overwhelming negative emotions, or wrestling with your own identity, therapy can be an incredibly helpful way to make the changes you need to start feeling better. As your therapist, I will strive to create an environment in which we can explore the parts of your life that are causing difficulty and identify strategies to provide relief and help you thrive.
It can be frustrating to realize that you are "stuck" but have no idea how to become "unstuck." Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your relationships with others, dealing with overwhelming negative emotions, or wrestling with your own identity, therapy can be an incredibly helpful way to make the changes you need to start feeling better. As your therapist, I will strive to create an environment in which we can explore the parts of your life that are causing difficulty and identify strategies to provide relief and help you thrive.
(336) 551-9521 View (336) 551-9521

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

500+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Winston Salem, NC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
90% Depression
76% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
72% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Aetna
48% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Winston Salem, NC see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Winston Salem?

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.