Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
Autumn Brownlee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
On our journey it can be helpful to have someone to help us read the narratives which often define our lives. Some of those narratives keep us from experiencing what we want for ourselves now and in the future. Since graduating with a Masters in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology in 2010, I have been working as a therapist with people in various stages of life. A relationship between a therapist and client can provide someone with a deep reflection of how they live and are experienced. I believe therapy can give us the opportunity to rediscover our story in a new way. Real change is possible.
On our journey it can be helpful to have someone to help us read the narratives which often define our lives. Some of those narratives keep us from experiencing what we want for ourselves now and in the future. Since graduating with a Masters in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology in 2010, I have been working as a therapist with people in various stages of life. A relationship between a therapist and client can provide someone with a deep reflection of how they live and are experienced. I believe therapy can give us the opportunity to rediscover our story in a new way. Real change is possible.
Erynne Schoeneweis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Hello! I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, and work towards achieving your personal goals. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I will apply my knowledge and lived experience to therapy to help those of us thrive in a system that was not built for us. I tailor my person-centered counseling approach to best meet your individual needs. I also am partially trained in EMDR therapy!
Hello! I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, and work towards achieving your personal goals. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I will apply my knowledge and lived experience to therapy to help those of us thrive in a system that was not built for us. I tailor my person-centered counseling approach to best meet your individual needs. I also am partially trained in EMDR therapy!
Dr. Sofia Alvarez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that meaningful change begins by creating a strong and authentic connection. I work in a collaborative manner with clients to help them grow and heal. I welcome clients from all walks of life and backgrounds. I am a trained generalist, which means I see most presenting concerns. I work with adults & teens presenting with a variety of concerns, including but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. I teach healthy coping skills, increase insight, and help resolve difficult feelings and make peace with hardship.
I believe that meaningful change begins by creating a strong and authentic connection. I work in a collaborative manner with clients to help them grow and heal. I welcome clients from all walks of life and backgrounds. I am a trained generalist, which means I see most presenting concerns. I work with adults & teens presenting with a variety of concerns, including but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. I teach healthy coping skills, increase insight, and help resolve difficult feelings and make peace with hardship.
Savanna Stanton-Ameisen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
My ideal client would be someone motivated to engage in motivational interviewing and change work.
My ideal client would be someone motivated to engage in motivational interviewing and change work.
Allana Sleeth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Not accepting new clients
I have over a decade and a half of experience as a psychotherapist working mainly with adults. I depend on your needs to direct the type of way I work. I rely on using techniques and a therapeutic style that are compassionate, respectful, uniquely-tailored, and value the whole person. I have extensive experience working with individuals with a range of disorders and a range of symptoms such as those from depression, anxiety, psychosis, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and ADHD. I look forward to focusing on ways to assist you in finding a more contented, self-accepting and peaceful life.
I have over a decade and a half of experience as a psychotherapist working mainly with adults. I depend on your needs to direct the type of way I work. I rely on using techniques and a therapeutic style that are compassionate, respectful, uniquely-tailored, and value the whole person. I have extensive experience working with individuals with a range of disorders and a range of symptoms such as those from depression, anxiety, psychosis, PTSD, OCD, bipolar, and ADHD. I look forward to focusing on ways to assist you in finding a more contented, self-accepting and peaceful life.
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Hayley Sweitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Seeking therapy can be the first action towards relief from the everyday issues we try to sift through on our own. Making that call and advocating for ourselves to get the help we need is big step. My aim is to create a safe space that can foster individual change and help you navigate the answers they already have within themselves. I strive to create a personalized environment for people to explore their feelings and do the hard work to create the lives they desire. Therapy can be intimidating for many and I aim to meet people where they are and use the therapeutic relationship to foster growth.
Seeking therapy can be the first action towards relief from the everyday issues we try to sift through on our own. Making that call and advocating for ourselves to get the help we need is big step. My aim is to create a safe space that can foster individual change and help you navigate the answers they already have within themselves. I strive to create a personalized environment for people to explore their feelings and do the hard work to create the lives they desire. Therapy can be intimidating for many and I aim to meet people where they are and use the therapeutic relationship to foster growth.
Dr. Taylor Day
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (Online Only)
Did you know autism can be diagnosed in children as young as 14 months of age? So often parents are told to "wait and see" despite having concerns about their child's development. As a child psychologist, I have expertise in the early diagnosis and intervention of autism. I have over a decade of experience conducting gold-standard evaluations for autism and research to advance knowledge about early autism signs with over 25 peer-reviewed publications/book chapters. I offer both diagnosis and intervention services for families of young children via telehealth throughout the country (select states). Contact me for a FREE consult!
Did you know autism can be diagnosed in children as young as 14 months of age? So often parents are told to "wait and see" despite having concerns about their child's development. As a child psychologist, I have expertise in the early diagnosis and intervention of autism. I have over a decade of experience conducting gold-standard evaluations for autism and research to advance knowledge about early autism signs with over 25 peer-reviewed publications/book chapters. I offer both diagnosis and intervention services for families of young children via telehealth throughout the country (select states). Contact me for a FREE consult!
Mikki Burgess
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues or current stressors and want to navigate life’s stressors from a Christian worldview? If so, I am here to help!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues or current stressors and want to navigate life’s stressors from a Christian worldview? If so, I am here to help!
Compassionate Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
At Compassionate Counseling, we believe in you becoming the person you were meant to be. Depression, anxiety, past trauma, or life issues no longer need to hold you back from your dreams and aspirations. Our goal is to provide quality services to clients in need, and to overcome obstacles such as: •Financial Hardship •Transportation •Resistance to Therapy •Childcare Issues We are also sensitive to those who prefer a holistic approach to their care. See the photo section below for a listing of our individual counselors and their specialties.
At Compassionate Counseling, we believe in you becoming the person you were meant to be. Depression, anxiety, past trauma, or life issues no longer need to hold you back from your dreams and aspirations. Our goal is to provide quality services to clients in need, and to overcome obstacles such as: •Financial Hardship •Transportation •Resistance to Therapy •Childcare Issues We are also sensitive to those who prefer a holistic approach to their care. See the photo section below for a listing of our individual counselors and their specialties.
Madison Krull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217 (Online Only)
INSTANT availability for Aetna and self-pay clients! Are the ups and downs of life too much to handle all at once? Are your relationships suffering as a result? I strive to create a comfortable, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space where you can openly be yourself. I will show up to each session exuding curiosity, empathy, respect, and humor. Together we will understand and navigate the struggles or mental health challenges that no longer serve you. In tandem, we will develop insight, strategies, and skills to help you navigate your life with meaning and authenticity.
INSTANT availability for Aetna and self-pay clients! Are the ups and downs of life too much to handle all at once? Are your relationships suffering as a result? I strive to create a comfortable, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space where you can openly be yourself. I will show up to each session exuding curiosity, empathy, respect, and humor. Together we will understand and navigate the struggles or mental health challenges that no longer serve you. In tandem, we will develop insight, strategies, and skills to help you navigate your life with meaning and authenticity.
15 Second Videos
Madison Krull
Valiant Minds Counseling, LLC / Valerie McIntyre
Tori Romberger
Katie Hido
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
Danielle Turk
Fran Meenan
Audrey Miller
Shane Patrick McCabe
Chelsie Musisko
Carolyn Weimer
Alison Grabell
Tanja Soto
Tom Murray Sex And Relationship Therapist
Avellar Warden Psychological Associates
Sharna Olfman
Sarah Vogel
Amanda Ludwig -Becoming Whole Counseling Consulting
Courtney Orlowski (Previously Frist)
Douglas Puchko
Janelle Buchheit
Diana Lynne Shaban
Maddison Fyffe
Intentional Simplicity LLC
Kaitlyn Bonham
Jessica Trent
Natalie McCormick
Rachael Dittmar
Alex Catozella
Gabrielle Blawas
Kim Saft
Julisa Holmes
Kristen Watt at Pittsburgh Art Therapy Studio LLC
Kelli Stebler
Elizabeth Gilmore
Makin Wellness
Autumn Goodson
Rosa Ellenberger
Michael Balsan
Rachael D Goss
Mariah Cooney
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
The Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh
Makin Wellness | Online Therapy & Counseling
Madison Rice
Vanessa Pappal
Alexander Noel
Lily VanDyk
Elizabeth Wilson Bayley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Whether you’re ready to make a change, or need someone to hold space for you while you figure out the conditions needed to do so, I would be grateful to assist you on your journey to improved mental health. Feeling like one can be their authentic self is key to getting to the root of concerns like anxiety and depression—and I aim to create a space so this discovery may occur. As a Duquesne University graduate, with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy, I've worked in a variety of settings-including inpatient, mobile family therapy, and at substance abuse facilities. I am a LPC & Nationally Certified Counselor.
Whether you’re ready to make a change, or need someone to hold space for you while you figure out the conditions needed to do so, I would be grateful to assist you on your journey to improved mental health. Feeling like one can be their authentic self is key to getting to the root of concerns like anxiety and depression—and I aim to create a space so this discovery may occur. As a Duquesne University graduate, with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy, I've worked in a variety of settings-including inpatient, mobile family therapy, and at substance abuse facilities. I am a LPC & Nationally Certified Counselor.
Valiant Minds Counseling, LLC / Valerie McIntyre
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ADDCCSP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
As an experienced licensed professional counselor and founder of Valiant Minds Counseling, LLC, I specialize in treating anxiety, ADHD, and OCD. My ideal client is someone ready to explore their core issues and work towards a fulfilling life. They seek to understand their struggles, develop resilience, and achieve personal goals. Admitting the need for help and seeking a fresh perspective are crucial steps they're willing to take. My role is to support them in building the mental muscle to overcome challenges, leveraging my expertise in a compassionate, supportive environment..
As an experienced licensed professional counselor and founder of Valiant Minds Counseling, LLC, I specialize in treating anxiety, ADHD, and OCD. My ideal client is someone ready to explore their core issues and work towards a fulfilling life. They seek to understand their struggles, develop resilience, and achieve personal goals. Admitting the need for help and seeking a fresh perspective are crucial steps they're willing to take. My role is to support them in building the mental muscle to overcome challenges, leveraging my expertise in a compassionate, supportive environment..
Mark S. Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I work with teenagers and adults who are struggling with depression or anxiety. I can support you to change behaviors to feel better, change patterns of thinking to improve your feelings, develop closer and more satisfying relationships, and much more. I use approaches that have been shown to be effective such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I work with teenagers and adults who are struggling with depression or anxiety. I can support you to change behaviors to feel better, change patterns of thinking to improve your feelings, develop closer and more satisfying relationships, and much more. I use approaches that have been shown to be effective such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Christine Kobik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I believe that every person has the innate ability to heal, grow, and overcome even the most challenging of situations. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships. I use mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and have completed the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s two year training program. My goal is to help you to find your own inner path to healing so that you will always know how to take care of yourself no matter what may come your way.
I believe that every person has the innate ability to heal, grow, and overcome even the most challenging of situations. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships. I use mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and have completed the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s two year training program. My goal is to help you to find your own inner path to healing so that you will always know how to take care of yourself no matter what may come your way.
Angelica Victoria Daniele
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, NCC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Sometimes you feel like something is off, but you're unsure what it is. Your head is clouded with too many thoughts or information to make clear decisions about your career, relationships, or health. You ask for advice from others, but their insight doesn't help. You research different ideas, but the internet is saturated. You feel stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed. You hope and pray that the answers will just come to you. And the truth is, when we become so self-aware that we wholeheartedly trust our intuition, those answers CAN come to you instantly, with no doubt, no fear, and no guilt. You just need a mirror to reflect your power!
Sometimes you feel like something is off, but you're unsure what it is. Your head is clouded with too many thoughts or information to make clear decisions about your career, relationships, or health. You ask for advice from others, but their insight doesn't help. You research different ideas, but the internet is saturated. You feel stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed. You hope and pray that the answers will just come to you. And the truth is, when we become so self-aware that we wholeheartedly trust our intuition, those answers CAN come to you instantly, with no doubt, no fear, and no guilt. You just need a mirror to reflect your power!
Leilany Davila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I treat Anxiety, depression, lack of self-acceptance, and grief problems. I help with the management of anxiety symptoms and depression, helping you to develop coping skills to manage your every day. I help clients identify and challenge cognitive distortions and replace them with positive affirmations. I will teach some mindfulness meditation to help you when anxious & help you obtain a better understanding of your mental health to cope with your emotions.
I treat Anxiety, depression, lack of self-acceptance, and grief problems. I help with the management of anxiety symptoms and depression, helping you to develop coping skills to manage your every day. I help clients identify and challenge cognitive distortions and replace them with positive affirmations. I will teach some mindfulness meditation to help you when anxious & help you obtain a better understanding of your mental health to cope with your emotions.
Terri Fessler LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Not accepting new clients
I believe each of us has a gift of Self to unwrap and embrace along life's journey, especially when we've lived through a life threatening event or a series of chronic traumas. I know first hand how impossible connecting to ourselves can seem afterward. We grieve the loss of a sense of safety and often believe that our identity has changed to what has happened to us. We fear life will always be tarnished and feel set apart by our shame. Through my own life journey and my experiences as a Trauma therapist I have witnessed the reclaiming of Self that arises from the ashes of violence when healing begins to happen!
I believe each of us has a gift of Self to unwrap and embrace along life's journey, especially when we've lived through a life threatening event or a series of chronic traumas. I know first hand how impossible connecting to ourselves can seem afterward. We grieve the loss of a sense of safety and often believe that our identity has changed to what has happened to us. We fear life will always be tarnished and feel set apart by our shame. Through my own life journey and my experiences as a Trauma therapist I have witnessed the reclaiming of Self that arises from the ashes of violence when healing begins to happen!
Dr. Steven S Carter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My name is Dr. Steven S. Carter. I am a research and clinical psychologist whose career began in The Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. My work involved the study of Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar Disorder. I have been trained in Interpersonal, Cognitive and Behavioral therapies. I am currently in private practice. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. Recently, I have been working with families to help them understand family members who do have a mood disorder. My approach is to listen and learn from you. I think this is the best way to build a trusting relationship between us.
My name is Dr. Steven S. Carter. I am a research and clinical psychologist whose career began in The Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. My work involved the study of Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar Disorder. I have been trained in Interpersonal, Cognitive and Behavioral therapies. I am currently in private practice. I offer individual, couples and family therapy. Recently, I have been working with families to help them understand family members who do have a mood disorder. My approach is to listen and learn from you. I think this is the best way to build a trusting relationship between us.
Amy Shirey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Amy is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) with more than 25 years of experience in providing therapeutic interventions and counseling to children and adolescents, young adults, couples, and adults. Amy graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Penn State University and received her Master's degree in Social Work degree with specialization in Direct Practice from the University of Pittsburgh. Amy works with a variety of issues including individuals struggling with depression and mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, multiple diagnoses, family issues, and chronic medical issues.
Amy is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) with more than 25 years of experience in providing therapeutic interventions and counseling to children and adolescents, young adults, couples, and adults. Amy graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Penn State University and received her Master's degree in Social Work degree with specialization in Direct Practice from the University of Pittsburgh. Amy works with a variety of issues including individuals struggling with depression and mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, multiple diagnoses, family issues, and chronic medical issues.
See more therapy options for Pittsburgh
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
1,000+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
77% | Self Esteem |
71% | Relationship Issues |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Coping Skills |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Highmark |
74% | Aetna |
68% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Pittsburgh?
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
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.
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.
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.