Therapists in Saline County, MO

Photo of Janet Lee Blasdell, Counselor in Saline County, MO
Janet Lee Blasdell
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Marshall, MO 65340
Waitlist for new clients
I have an ecletic approach. I tend to individualize sesssions. I also focus on skills training. I help you build a toolbox of skills you can use years later if you choose. I treat adults who are struggling with anxiety and depression. You will work hard but I believe you will find it is worth it. I also see children and work with the parents in helping their children with behavioral issues, ADHD and abuse.
I have an ecletic approach. I tend to individualize sesssions. I also focus on skills training. I help you build a toolbox of skills you can use years later if you choose. I treat adults who are struggling with anxiety and depression. You will work hard but I believe you will find it is worth it. I also see children and work with the parents in helping their children with behavioral issues, ADHD and abuse.
(660) 527-6432 View (660) 527-6432
Photo of Chris Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saline County, MO
Chris Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marshall, MO 65340  (Online Only)
Using natural methods, I successfully treat stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem and other problems. My focus is on making your symptoms go away - not just teaching you coping skills. By changing how your brain and body operate, it is possible to find the peace of mind you are looking for.
Using natural methods, I successfully treat stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, low self-esteem and other problems. My focus is on making your symptoms go away - not just teaching you coping skills. By changing how your brain and body operate, it is possible to find the peace of mind you are looking for.
(660) 515-4177 View (660) 515-4177

Online Therapists

Photo of Mike Porter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Saline County, MO
Mike Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116
We all have times where we just feel a little (or a lot) overwhelmed, even though most of us pretend we don’t (myself included). Or times when we think, “Nothing I’m doing is working with my kid (or husband, wife, sister, bestie, aunt, grandma, well…you get the idea)!” We delude ourselves into thinking everyone else has it all figured out. They don’t. And, it’s okay that you don’t. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, at a loss for how to help your loved one, or just unsure of the next steps in your relationship, therapy can help.
We all have times where we just feel a little (or a lot) overwhelmed, even though most of us pretend we don’t (myself included). Or times when we think, “Nothing I’m doing is working with my kid (or husband, wife, sister, bestie, aunt, grandma, well…you get the idea)!” We delude ourselves into thinking everyone else has it all figured out. They don’t. And, it’s okay that you don’t. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, at a loss for how to help your loved one, or just unsure of the next steps in your relationship, therapy can help.
(816) 370-6599 View (816) 370-6599
Photo of Michelle Marie Magri, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Michelle Marie Magri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMAC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64118
Asking for help is hard and you are a strong person for taking the first steps. As a clinician, I recognize the importance of collaboration and the impact it can have on our well-being. Life indeed presents its share of difficulties, and having a safe space to explore those challenges is crucial. Unbiased and non-judgmental support is essential, especially when we tend to be overly critical of ourselves. It’s common to feel like some problems are beyond our control, but together, we can navigate them. Whether the issues are big or small, I’m here to join forces with you, working toward your goals and uncovering new possibilities.
Asking for help is hard and you are a strong person for taking the first steps. As a clinician, I recognize the importance of collaboration and the impact it can have on our well-being. Life indeed presents its share of difficulties, and having a safe space to explore those challenges is crucial. Unbiased and non-judgmental support is essential, especially when we tend to be overly critical of ourselves. It’s common to feel like some problems are beyond our control, but together, we can navigate them. Whether the issues are big or small, I’m here to join forces with you, working toward your goals and uncovering new possibilities.
(816) 327-2464 View (816) 327-2464
Photo of Rebecca Rickard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Rebecca Rickard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116
Welcome! Sometimes we find ourselves in "survival mode," where we are doing what we can to get by. And with so many stressors, there's no time to reflect on how we are really doing. Thoughts and emotions can sneak up at random, often leaving one confused. Many of my clients have experienced multiple traumas and choose to process these memories. Some prefer to focus on getting coping skills, tailored to each individual, to relieve symptoms. Trauma has a lasting impact on our lives which makes adjusting to a new life more difficult, I'm here to help.
Welcome! Sometimes we find ourselves in "survival mode," where we are doing what we can to get by. And with so many stressors, there's no time to reflect on how we are really doing. Thoughts and emotions can sneak up at random, often leaving one confused. Many of my clients have experienced multiple traumas and choose to process these memories. Some prefer to focus on getting coping skills, tailored to each individual, to relieve symptoms. Trauma has a lasting impact on our lives which makes adjusting to a new life more difficult, I'm here to help.
(816) 750-6112 View (816) 750-6112
Photo of Mindful Solutions Behavioral Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Mindful Solutions Behavioral Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raymore, MO 64083  (Online Only)
My name is Lindsay Powelson (she/her), MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, CCTP-II, CSTIP. I graduated from Lindenwood University with a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling in 2004. I am an LPC in Missouri and an LCPC in Kansas. I am a National Board Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional. I hold full membership with WPATH. I have 18 years experience in the field. I specialize in working with all ages, as well as couples and families; in all of the ways they are formed. My therapeutic lens is person centered and action oriented.
My name is Lindsay Powelson (she/her), MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC, CCTP-II, CSTIP. I graduated from Lindenwood University with a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling in 2004. I am an LPC in Missouri and an LCPC in Kansas. I am a National Board Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional. I hold full membership with WPATH. I have 18 years experience in the field. I specialize in working with all ages, as well as couples and families; in all of the ways they are formed. My therapeutic lens is person centered and action oriented.
(816) 296-6426 View (816) 296-6426
Photo of Kansas City Psychology Center, LLC, Psychologist in Saline County, MO
Kansas City Psychology Center, LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Blue Springs, MO 64015
Kansas City Psychology Center, LLC provides a wide range of clinical services, including psychological assessment, evidence-based treatment, consultation, and mediation. Our services are best suited for individuals who expect the same high quality of mental health assessment and treatment they would expect when receiving quality care for medical conditions. They can expect to be well-informed of the methods and typical course and likely outcome of treatment. Contact us to set up a free phone consultation if you have any questions with regard to how evidence-based treatments might be different from your prior treatment experiences.
Kansas City Psychology Center, LLC provides a wide range of clinical services, including psychological assessment, evidence-based treatment, consultation, and mediation. Our services are best suited for individuals who expect the same high quality of mental health assessment and treatment they would expect when receiving quality care for medical conditions. They can expect to be well-informed of the methods and typical course and likely outcome of treatment. Contact us to set up a free phone consultation if you have any questions with regard to how evidence-based treatments might be different from your prior treatment experiences.
(816) 844-3677 View (816) 844-3677
Photo of Malique Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Malique Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC(KS), PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
My initial desire to do therapy started with wanting to help minority men take some of the worlds weight off of their shoulders. I am also strongly motivated to help couples find their relationship goals. As of now I can help those who reside in Kansas or Missouri.
My initial desire to do therapy started with wanting to help minority men take some of the worlds weight off of their shoulders. I am also strongly motivated to help couples find their relationship goals. As of now I can help those who reside in Kansas or Missouri.
(816) 597-4037 View (816) 597-4037
Photo of Christy Hutton, Psychologist in Saline County, MO
Christy Hutton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203
Choosing to live authentically is an act of courage. Life offers many opportunities to hide our true selves, sometimes even from oneself, often resulting in living far below our capacity. Taking steps to heal, recover, survive, or take life to the next level can be challenging on our own. We’ll work together to understand what you want in your life, what’s getting in the way, and how you can create opportunities to have more of what you want, empowering you to live courageously and authentically. I love working with many different concerns including anxiety, depression, sexuality, gender, parenting, and more.
Choosing to live authentically is an act of courage. Life offers many opportunities to hide our true selves, sometimes even from oneself, often resulting in living far below our capacity. Taking steps to heal, recover, survive, or take life to the next level can be challenging on our own. We’ll work together to understand what you want in your life, what’s getting in the way, and how you can create opportunities to have more of what you want, empowering you to live courageously and authentically. I love working with many different concerns including anxiety, depression, sexuality, gender, parenting, and more.
(573) 633-4061 x107 View (573) 633-4061 x107
Photo of Lori Kanke, Lcsw, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saline County, MO
Lori Kanke, Lcsw, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Saint Joseph, MO 64506
Waitlist for new clients
Relationships can be very difficult and emotionally exhausting. In fact, problems in relationships can increase depression and anxiety. Depression and anxiety can affect all areas of life. I believe that there is hope for anyone who is having problems with relationships or mental health issues. I enjoy helping people make changes and improve their lives. For over 28 years, I've been helping clients with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse. In addition, I've had the privilege to help couples resolve conflicts and improve communications.
Relationships can be very difficult and emotionally exhausting. In fact, problems in relationships can increase depression and anxiety. Depression and anxiety can affect all areas of life. I believe that there is hope for anyone who is having problems with relationships or mental health issues. I enjoy helping people make changes and improve their lives. For over 28 years, I've been helping clients with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse. In addition, I've had the privilege to help couples resolve conflicts and improve communications.
(816) 521-6191 View (816) 521-6191
Photo of Cheryl A Pendell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Cheryl A Pendell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC, CPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64118
There are many presenting issues that might bring you to counseling. Finding a therapist that you can connect with and build an alliance with is important to your success in therapy. I work very hard to create a relationship that will provide you the safety and warmth that you need to explore your experiences; I am very comfortable earning your trust. I use different treatment modalities, depending upon which is appropriate for you personally. Empathy is the primary tool used to give you the safety you need to explore your inner world while we begin to understand your experiences together.
There are many presenting issues that might bring you to counseling. Finding a therapist that you can connect with and build an alliance with is important to your success in therapy. I work very hard to create a relationship that will provide you the safety and warmth that you need to explore your experiences; I am very comfortable earning your trust. I use different treatment modalities, depending upon which is appropriate for you personally. Empathy is the primary tool used to give you the safety you need to explore your inner world while we begin to understand your experiences together.
(816) 987-7956 View (816) 987-7956
Photo of Danielle Conforti, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Danielle Conforti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonville, MO 64701  (Online Only)
I am an LPC (MO) and LCPC (KS) who specializes in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and LGBTQIA-related issues. Throughout my years as a clinician, I have learned that the best therapy is done when a positive connection and therapeutic trust can be built and maintained. I work to make therapy a safe place for clients to open up and feel supported and valued. Therapy can be intense and hard at times, I work to keep a positive balance between seriousness and humor. I am a person-centered therapist and I believe in encouraging and challenging my clients to grow.
I am an LPC (MO) and LCPC (KS) who specializes in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and LGBTQIA-related issues. Throughout my years as a clinician, I have learned that the best therapy is done when a positive connection and therapeutic trust can be built and maintained. I work to make therapy a safe place for clients to open up and feel supported and valued. Therapy can be intense and hard at times, I work to keep a positive balance between seriousness and humor. I am a person-centered therapist and I believe in encouraging and challenging my clients to grow.
(816) 306-0937 View (816) 306-0937
Photo of Samantha Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Samantha Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty, MO 64068
Hi! I am glad you are here. It takes courage to make the first step whether you are searching for yourself, your marriage, a child, or a loved one. At times we find ourselves in the middle of a life altering transition, struggling with our mental health, and in need of extra support. Asking for help can feel difficult, but getting better does not need to be! Do any of these resonate with you: lack of self love, healing from toxic relationships, wanting to truly know yourself, feel like something is missing in your life, or just anxious and unhappy? If those struggles feel familiar, please reach out to see if we would be a good fit!
Hi! I am glad you are here. It takes courage to make the first step whether you are searching for yourself, your marriage, a child, or a loved one. At times we find ourselves in the middle of a life altering transition, struggling with our mental health, and in need of extra support. Asking for help can feel difficult, but getting better does not need to be! Do any of these resonate with you: lack of self love, healing from toxic relationships, wanting to truly know yourself, feel like something is missing in your life, or just anxious and unhappy? If those struggles feel familiar, please reach out to see if we would be a good fit!
(816) 239-2967 View (816) 239-2967
Photo of Amber Utter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Amber Utter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Every person has a unique path to walk in life. Sometimes you need someone to walk with you to guide, support, validate and encourage . I would see it as a privilege to walk beside you on your journey. It's difficult to reach out and it takes courage to seek positive change. I'm here to help you navigate life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship conflict and more.
Every person has a unique path to walk in life. Sometimes you need someone to walk with you to guide, support, validate and encourage . I would see it as a privilege to walk beside you on your journey. It's difficult to reach out and it takes courage to seek positive change. I'm here to help you navigate life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship conflict and more.
(816) 253-8164 View (816) 253-8164
Photo of Dr. Marcellis D Washington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Dr. Marcellis D Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64118
I believe that understanding your own story is one of the bravest, most courageous things you can do. Everyone has their own unique journey and story to tell but the way we deal with certain roadblocks is not always as straightforward. Taking that story and turning it into your strength is an even bigger feat. It is a testament to our growth and courage to actively work to understand our emotions and create positive change. I am eager to hear your story and learn about your strengths, and the troubles that keep you up at night. You can count on me to have real conversations that guide you through these hardships.
I believe that understanding your own story is one of the bravest, most courageous things you can do. Everyone has their own unique journey and story to tell but the way we deal with certain roadblocks is not always as straightforward. Taking that story and turning it into your strength is an even bigger feat. It is a testament to our growth and courage to actively work to understand our emotions and create positive change. I am eager to hear your story and learn about your strengths, and the troubles that keep you up at night. You can count on me to have real conversations that guide you through these hardships.
(816) 323-5693 View (816) 323-5693
Photo of Sohna Shook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Sohna Shook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64127  (Online Only)
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
(816) 578-0212 View (816) 578-0212
Photo of Brooklyn Rehmert, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saline County, MO
Brooklyn Rehmert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, CIT
Verified Verified
My ideal client is a teen navigating the complexities of adolesence, who may find themselves struggling with anxiety and depression. Often, these teens seek support because they are tired of feeling overwhelmed by their emotions and want to find effective coping strategies. Goals include learning how to manage stress, build self-esteem, improve communication skills, and cultivate healthy relationships. They aspire to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, ultimately striving for greater emotional resilience and well-being. We achieve these goals by fostering a supportive environment where they can explore, learn, and grow.
My ideal client is a teen navigating the complexities of adolesence, who may find themselves struggling with anxiety and depression. Often, these teens seek support because they are tired of feeling overwhelmed by their emotions and want to find effective coping strategies. Goals include learning how to manage stress, build self-esteem, improve communication skills, and cultivate healthy relationships. They aspire to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, ultimately striving for greater emotional resilience and well-being. We achieve these goals by fostering a supportive environment where they can explore, learn, and grow.
(573) 410-7807 View (573) 410-7807
Photo of Greg E Neubauer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Greg E Neubauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
I have over 25 years of clinical experience providing counseling therapy to adult individuals, children, adolescents, families, and couples to address their emotional and behavioral struggles. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, goal directed, reality based treatment approach, integrating family dynamics as needed, to help clients effectively resolve or learn to cope with their struggles. I am available to coordinate with schools and other treatment providers. My office at Truman & Main St on the Independence Square offers a convenient, unassuming, confidential, and relaxing environment.
I have over 25 years of clinical experience providing counseling therapy to adult individuals, children, adolescents, families, and couples to address their emotional and behavioral struggles. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, goal directed, reality based treatment approach, integrating family dynamics as needed, to help clients effectively resolve or learn to cope with their struggles. I am available to coordinate with schools and other treatment providers. My office at Truman & Main St on the Independence Square offers a convenient, unassuming, confidential, and relaxing environment.
(816) 237-5524 View (816) 237-5524
Photo of Dallas Gipson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Dallas Gipson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
Choosing a therapist is sometimes the most overwhelming part of getting help! Relationship is very important to the process, and I am happy to schedule a free phone consultation to discuss your goals for therapy and find out if we are a good match. I believe in an individualized approach that will help you get out of therapy what YOU want to achieve.
Choosing a therapist is sometimes the most overwhelming part of getting help! Relationship is very important to the process, and I am happy to schedule a free phone consultation to discuss your goals for therapy and find out if we are a good match. I believe in an individualized approach that will help you get out of therapy what YOU want to achieve.
(816) 227-6035 View (816) 227-6035
Photo of Emily Viet, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saline County, MO
Emily Viet
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64109
Sometimes life is hard. We experience stress, difficult experiences, wounding in relationships, and trauma along with many other experiences. We carry these with us and they show up in our daily lives - in our thoughts, emotions, physical body, relationships with others, relationship with our self. Maybe you've noticed feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Weighed down. Maybe anxious. Maybe you've noticed patterns in your relationships. Maybe physical discomfort and pain. Tension in your body. Maybe you're curious about what you're noticing. Or maybe you’re curious about who YOU are – the authentic you.
Sometimes life is hard. We experience stress, difficult experiences, wounding in relationships, and trauma along with many other experiences. We carry these with us and they show up in our daily lives - in our thoughts, emotions, physical body, relationships with others, relationship with our self. Maybe you've noticed feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Weighed down. Maybe anxious. Maybe you've noticed patterns in your relationships. Maybe physical discomfort and pain. Tension in your body. Maybe you're curious about what you're noticing. Or maybe you’re curious about who YOU are – the authentic you.
(816) 327-9194 View (816) 327-9194

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saline County, MO

< 10

Therapists in Saline County, MO who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% ADHD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% ComPsych
100% TRICARE

How Therapists in Saline County, MO see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saline County?

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.