Therapists in Bellevue, WA

View neighborhoods in Bellevue
Photo of Jordan Bierlein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Jordan Bierlein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Sometimes life feels overwhelming and we need the space to process our emotions and develop coping strategies. Therapy is hard work - it is both challenging and rewarding. We will collaborate together to achieve your goals and work towards growth and healing. I am passionate about helping people create positive change. I work with individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in working with issues of anxiety, grief/loss, relationship issues, trauma, stress management, and life transitions.
Sometimes life feels overwhelming and we need the space to process our emotions and develop coping strategies. Therapy is hard work - it is both challenging and rewarding. We will collaborate together to achieve your goals and work towards growth and healing. I am passionate about helping people create positive change. I work with individuals, families, and couples. I specialize in working with issues of anxiety, grief/loss, relationship issues, trauma, stress management, and life transitions.
(206) 207-2225 View (206) 207-2225
Photo of Diane Schachter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Diane Schachter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist for nearly 30 years ... guiding people toward creating lives with more meaning, vitality, and satisfaction. My intent is to partner with you to create a refreshing change in perspective, increased self-respect, more confidence in your own capacities, and the energy to create and sustain desired changes. I am interested in supporting all of your important relationships: the ones you have with your family, your children, your lovers, your coworkers, and most importantly the one you have with yourself. I HAVE TRANSITIONED MY PRACTICE TO AN ONLINE ONLY PRACTICE .
Hello! I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist for nearly 30 years ... guiding people toward creating lives with more meaning, vitality, and satisfaction. My intent is to partner with you to create a refreshing change in perspective, increased self-respect, more confidence in your own capacities, and the energy to create and sustain desired changes. I am interested in supporting all of your important relationships: the ones you have with your family, your children, your lovers, your coworkers, and most importantly the one you have with yourself. I HAVE TRANSITIONED MY PRACTICE TO AN ONLINE ONLY PRACTICE .
(425) 363-9434 View (425) 363-9434
Photo of Jennifer Tillman, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Jennifer Tillman
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Jenny Tillman and I am currently accepting new clients for individual therapy services through Sound Resilience Health. I work with clients ages 15 and older struggling with anxiety, interpersonal conflicts, parenting challenges, depression, mood disorders and challenges surrounding eating behaviors, and self-harm.
Hello! My name is Jenny Tillman and I am currently accepting new clients for individual therapy services through Sound Resilience Health. I work with clients ages 15 and older struggling with anxiety, interpersonal conflicts, parenting challenges, depression, mood disorders and challenges surrounding eating behaviors, and self-harm.
(425) 748-8963 View (425) 748-8963
Photo of Susannah Bleakley, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Susannah Bleakley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, IFS, RO-DBT, Couples
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Working with individuals, couples and families struggling with interpersonal relationships, communication, boundaries, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief and loss are my specialities. Many of the clients I see begin therapy with some insight into what's going on with them but feel uncertainty and confusion over how to address it and create the positive changes they desire. Many struggle in their social or romantic relationships, managing work related stress, or say they feel depressed, stressed, emotionally lonely, or sad.
Working with individuals, couples and families struggling with interpersonal relationships, communication, boundaries, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief and loss are my specialities. Many of the clients I see begin therapy with some insight into what's going on with them but feel uncertainty and confusion over how to address it and create the positive changes they desire. Many struggle in their social or romantic relationships, managing work related stress, or say they feel depressed, stressed, emotionally lonely, or sad.
(206) 899-0995 View (206) 899-0995
Photo of Dani Bohbot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Dani Bohbot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Do you have anxious thoughts that keep you on a loop that spirals and feels exhausting? Maybe you struggle with indecision and confidence in your life. Anxiety shows up in many ways and without realizing it we often find ourselves coping in ways that distance us from who we are. Maybe that looks like avoiding social situations, obsessive thinking and actions, disorder eating, or perfectionism. Or maybe you find yourself exhausted first thing in the morning and struggle to get out of bed. Depression can feel like an invisible rain cloud following only you around, leading to feeling alone, hopeless, and angry at life.
Do you have anxious thoughts that keep you on a loop that spirals and feels exhausting? Maybe you struggle with indecision and confidence in your life. Anxiety shows up in many ways and without realizing it we often find ourselves coping in ways that distance us from who we are. Maybe that looks like avoiding social situations, obsessive thinking and actions, disorder eating, or perfectionism. Or maybe you find yourself exhausted first thing in the morning and struggle to get out of bed. Depression can feel like an invisible rain cloud following only you around, leading to feeling alone, hopeless, and angry at life.
(425) 403-2742 x001 View (425) 403-2742 x001
Photo of Renee Gilbert, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Renee Gilbert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
I can best describe myself as a Competency-based, Cognitive-Behavioral, Family Systems therapist. Practically speaking, that means I have great respect for the challenges we all face in our lives and consider most so called "problem-behaviors" as logical adaptations to difficult situations that simply have outlived their usefulness. Therapy sessions strive to identify out dated problem solving strategies and replace them with newer more effective solutions. While I utilize a number of treatment techniques, I rely most heavily on Cognitive-Behavioral, Skills Training and Family Systems approaches.
I can best describe myself as a Competency-based, Cognitive-Behavioral, Family Systems therapist. Practically speaking, that means I have great respect for the challenges we all face in our lives and consider most so called "problem-behaviors" as logical adaptations to difficult situations that simply have outlived their usefulness. Therapy sessions strive to identify out dated problem solving strategies and replace them with newer more effective solutions. While I utilize a number of treatment techniques, I rely most heavily on Cognitive-Behavioral, Skills Training and Family Systems approaches.
(425) 320-3777 View (425) 320-3777
Photo of Andrew R Galbreath, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Andrew R Galbreath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CDP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
As a therapist who specializes in the treatment of both mental health and substance use disorders, my approach centers around the strengths of the client while holding paramount the client's aspirations, needs, and goals. I believe in working collaboratively with clients to identify the issues they deem most important. Please visit my website for more details: www.andrewtherapy.com. I am available by phone and email Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 12 pm - 6 pm.
As a therapist who specializes in the treatment of both mental health and substance use disorders, my approach centers around the strengths of the client while holding paramount the client's aspirations, needs, and goals. I believe in working collaboratively with clients to identify the issues they deem most important. Please visit my website for more details: www.andrewtherapy.com. I am available by phone and email Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 12 pm - 6 pm.
(425) 409-2962 View (425) 409-2962
Photo of Laura McDowell, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Laura McDowell
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Let’s be honest, you are trying incredibly hard and genuinely doing your best. That’s part of the reason it’s so frustrating to be tense, worried or on edge all the time. Maybe you hoped that one day you would outgrow thoughts or emotions that come with feeling anxious on a regular basis. But it hasn’t happened. Maybe it’s a life transition that has pulled the rug out from under you. Or perhaps thoughts or feelings you once kept at bay have intensified or are overwhelming.
Let’s be honest, you are trying incredibly hard and genuinely doing your best. That’s part of the reason it’s so frustrating to be tense, worried or on edge all the time. Maybe you hoped that one day you would outgrow thoughts or emotions that come with feeling anxious on a regular basis. But it hasn’t happened. Maybe it’s a life transition that has pulled the rug out from under you. Or perhaps thoughts or feelings you once kept at bay have intensified or are overwhelming.
(425) 215-0368 View (425) 215-0368
Photo of Rebecca Barnett, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Rebecca Barnett
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Welcome to a nurturing space where you need not face life's challenges alone. I understand the weight of worst-case scenarios and the drowning out of reason. Life transitions can be daunting, especially if you deviate from the heteronormative path. My approach is warm, laid-back, and compassionate. Our work is based on trust, respect, and your goals.
Welcome to a nurturing space where you need not face life's challenges alone. I understand the weight of worst-case scenarios and the drowning out of reason. Life transitions can be daunting, especially if you deviate from the heteronormative path. My approach is warm, laid-back, and compassionate. Our work is based on trust, respect, and your goals.
(206) 672-8913 View (206) 672-8913
Photo of Dr. Chanin James-Hardwick, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Dr. Chanin James-Hardwick
Counselor, PhD, MA-MFT, LMHC, LPCC, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Transition, trauma, and transformation are my specialties. Life transition, career transition, transition in relationships, racial trauma, the trauma of loss, sexual assault trauma, imposter syndrome, and personal transformation. Healing is complex and not linear. Using the mind, body, and soul connection I support you in finding healing, and a new sense of being. Healing is done in connection with others through embodied connection, awareness, and meaning or faith. Together through connection, you can bring healing into your life.
Transition, trauma, and transformation are my specialties. Life transition, career transition, transition in relationships, racial trauma, the trauma of loss, sexual assault trauma, imposter syndrome, and personal transformation. Healing is complex and not linear. Using the mind, body, and soul connection I support you in finding healing, and a new sense of being. Healing is done in connection with others through embodied connection, awareness, and meaning or faith. Together through connection, you can bring healing into your life.
(425) 386-2993 View (425) 386-2993
Photo of Brooke Byers, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Brooke Byers
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Feelings illuminate needs & needs require action. There is a unique connection between your emotions & your feelings. Is healing, growth & change possible for me? Can someone really help me overcome this dark depression or intense anxiety? Is it possible to find my voice? How can I recover from disordered eating? Will I ever be free of this addiction? Am I the only one feeling like this? Can our relationship rebound after this betrayal? What's wrong with me/him/her/them/us? Questions like these are worthy of asking and it takes courage to seek and find the answers.
Feelings illuminate needs & needs require action. There is a unique connection between your emotions & your feelings. Is healing, growth & change possible for me? Can someone really help me overcome this dark depression or intense anxiety? Is it possible to find my voice? How can I recover from disordered eating? Will I ever be free of this addiction? Am I the only one feeling like this? Can our relationship rebound after this betrayal? What's wrong with me/him/her/them/us? Questions like these are worthy of asking and it takes courage to seek and find the answers.
(425) 217-8901 x702 View (425) 217-8901 x702
Photo of Drew Thomas, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Drew Thomas
Counselor, MACP, CMHS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Not accepting new clients
**Currently not accepting new clients** I believe that therapy can greatly encourage all of us to make healthy choices and better navigate life's obstacles. I specialize in working with children and teens, college age individuals, young adults, and families. In one on one sessions, I strive to help individuals define their thoughts, identify important emotions, and express themselves in meaningful ways that bring about change. In working with families, my goals are to identify patterns of behavior, recognize familial strengths, and suggest strategies that may allow interactions within the family to be more healthy and adaptive.
**Currently not accepting new clients** I believe that therapy can greatly encourage all of us to make healthy choices and better navigate life's obstacles. I specialize in working with children and teens, college age individuals, young adults, and families. In one on one sessions, I strive to help individuals define their thoughts, identify important emotions, and express themselves in meaningful ways that bring about change. In working with families, my goals are to identify patterns of behavior, recognize familial strengths, and suggest strategies that may allow interactions within the family to be more healthy and adaptive.
(425) 549-9837 View (425) 549-9837
Photo of Jen Peters, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Jen Peters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating all forms of anxiety, including social anxiety, agoraphobia, specific phobias (e.g. spiders, flying, heights, driving), and panic disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience guiding parents toward more connected relationships with their children. I especially enjoy working with new moms and parents of toddlers. I also have a special interest helping individuals increase their self-esteem by helping you identify your strengths, increase your level of confidence, and create positive, healthy goals for yourself.
I specialize in treating all forms of anxiety, including social anxiety, agoraphobia, specific phobias (e.g. spiders, flying, heights, driving), and panic disorders. In addition, I have extensive experience guiding parents toward more connected relationships with their children. I especially enjoy working with new moms and parents of toddlers. I also have a special interest helping individuals increase their self-esteem by helping you identify your strengths, increase your level of confidence, and create positive, healthy goals for yourself.
(425) 437-3551 View (425) 437-3551
Photo of Nancy Bell, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Nancy Bell
Counselor, MC, NCC, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I have been working with individuals and couples since 1978. I love what I do and I believe my clients know it. I also believe they feel the respect I have for them. I know it takes courage to ask for help, especially when feeling vulnerable. All of us, at some point, experience painful life circumstances or relationship difficulties--usually accompanied by symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. At times we know our lives are not what they could be, but in spite of all our best efforts we may feel stuck.
I have been working with individuals and couples since 1978. I love what I do and I believe my clients know it. I also believe they feel the respect I have for them. I know it takes courage to ask for help, especially when feeling vulnerable. All of us, at some point, experience painful life circumstances or relationship difficulties--usually accompanied by symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. At times we know our lives are not what they could be, but in spite of all our best efforts we may feel stuck.
(425) 453-1583 View (425) 453-1583
Photo of Cindy Su, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Cindy Su
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Are you feeling the weight of uncertainty or struggling to navigate the complexities of life? Are there aspects of yourself or your situation that you wish to explore and transform? I specialize in working with individuals who recognize the value of change and seek internal motivation for personal growth. You may be facing challenges related to self-image, relationships, or cultural stigma, or you are someone who wants to embark on a journey of self-discovery, gaining insight into your emotions and experiences. Your goals become mine, and together, we'll navigate the path towards a more fulfilling and empowered life.
Are you feeling the weight of uncertainty or struggling to navigate the complexities of life? Are there aspects of yourself or your situation that you wish to explore and transform? I specialize in working with individuals who recognize the value of change and seek internal motivation for personal growth. You may be facing challenges related to self-image, relationships, or cultural stigma, or you are someone who wants to embark on a journey of self-discovery, gaining insight into your emotions and experiences. Your goals become mine, and together, we'll navigate the path towards a more fulfilling and empowered life.
(425) 728-6890 View (425) 728-6890
Photo of Amy Coffman, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Amy Coffman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, life transitions, and/or self-identity. I work with clients who struggle with overcontrolled coping, which includes perfectionism, rigid thinking, low emotional expression and emotional loneliness. I work with clients who struggle with undercontrol coping, which includes impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and relationship challenges.
I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, life transitions, and/or self-identity. I work with clients who struggle with overcontrolled coping, which includes perfectionism, rigid thinking, low emotional expression and emotional loneliness. I work with clients who struggle with undercontrol coping, which includes impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and relationship challenges.
(206) 578-3843 View (206) 578-3843
Photo of Pamela Raphael, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Pamela Raphael
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Together we will explore the things you want to change. I will help you access your untapped strengths and power in order to create the life you want: more empowered, more connected, more authentic. In a safe and compassionate way, I help you reconnect to your truest self and find your inner integrity so you can meet the world in a secure and resilient way. Most importantly, you'll have an ally in your life committed to this journey with you. If you have experienced trauma in your early or adult life, I am trained in trauma therapy and want to help. Remote counseling for trauma is now possible and accessible.
Together we will explore the things you want to change. I will help you access your untapped strengths and power in order to create the life you want: more empowered, more connected, more authentic. In a safe and compassionate way, I help you reconnect to your truest self and find your inner integrity so you can meet the world in a secure and resilient way. Most importantly, you'll have an ally in your life committed to this journey with you. If you have experienced trauma in your early or adult life, I am trained in trauma therapy and want to help. Remote counseling for trauma is now possible and accessible.
(425) 292-8148 View (425) 292-8148
Photo of Maggie Brown, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Maggie Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Together we will discover what you want to change. I will help you access your untapped strengths and power in order to create the life you want: more empowered, more connected, more authentic. In a safe and compassionate manner, I help you reconnect to your truest self so you can meet the world in a secure and resilient way. Most importantly, you'll have an ally in your life committed to this journey with you. If you have experienced trauma in your early or adult life, I am trained and want to help.
Together we will discover what you want to change. I will help you access your untapped strengths and power in order to create the life you want: more empowered, more connected, more authentic. In a safe and compassionate manner, I help you reconnect to your truest self so you can meet the world in a secure and resilient way. Most importantly, you'll have an ally in your life committed to this journey with you. If you have experienced trauma in your early or adult life, I am trained and want to help.
(425) 979-2327 View (425) 979-2327
Photo of Whitnee Chavez, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Whitnee Chavez
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Changing your life for the better is rewarding and possible! You most likely came here looking for emotional and practical support and tools. I am here to work with you. Together, we can work on your individual wants and needs, life transitions, and social dynamics. I work with adults, teens 15+, and diverse and fluid families. My focus is mainly life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar 1 & 2, ADHD, and PTSD/ trauma.
Changing your life for the better is rewarding and possible! You most likely came here looking for emotional and practical support and tools. I am here to work with you. Together, we can work on your individual wants and needs, life transitions, and social dynamics. I work with adults, teens 15+, and diverse and fluid families. My focus is mainly life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar 1 & 2, ADHD, and PTSD/ trauma.
(425) 777-7952 View (425) 777-7952
Photo of Matthew J Bennett, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Matthew J Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
(425) 374-4661 View (425) 374-4661

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bellevue, WA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Premera
55% Regence
53% Aetna

How Therapists in Bellevue, WA see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bellevue?

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.