Therapists in Portland, OR

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Photo of Jessica Starr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Jessica Starr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
Welcome. I practice from a paradigm that explores and honors all parts of us to promote healing of the body, mind, and soul. My focus is on deepening insight into thoughts, feelings, emotions, and the body's story to experience more understanding and compassion for oneself. I believe we are good enough just as we are, and I also understand that there may be patterns, behaviors and symptoms that we may want to shift to help us live fuller, more expansive, peaceful lives. My hope is to cultivate healing, through the safety and support of our therapeutic relationship, and for my clients to rediscover their own inner healer.
Welcome. I practice from a paradigm that explores and honors all parts of us to promote healing of the body, mind, and soul. My focus is on deepening insight into thoughts, feelings, emotions, and the body's story to experience more understanding and compassion for oneself. I believe we are good enough just as we are, and I also understand that there may be patterns, behaviors and symptoms that we may want to shift to help us live fuller, more expansive, peaceful lives. My hope is to cultivate healing, through the safety and support of our therapeutic relationship, and for my clients to rediscover their own inner healer.
(971) 251-4135 View (971) 251-4135
Photo of Saren E Craig, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Saren E Craig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I value advocacy surrounding social justice issues and center of experiences of oppression, especially regarding LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities when discussing mental health. I love the empowering work I do with my clients.
I value advocacy surrounding social justice issues and center of experiences of oppression, especially regarding LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities when discussing mental health. I love the empowering work I do with my clients.
(971) 306-5456 View (971) 306-5456
Photo of Will Howell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Will Howell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SAC-IT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223  (Online Only)
It seems we often desire a sense of secure connection while also living in line with our authentic self. My therapeutic style is integrative and relational based, emphasizing mind-body work and self-compassion. My clients might experience: addiction, panic, worry, codependency, perfectionism, depression, impulsivity, interpersonal conflict, avoidance, attachment wounds, people pleasing, shame, trauma, loneliness, trouble relaxing, life adjustments, limiting core beliefs, mood swings. Client needs/goals might include: attunement, decreasing stress, learning to ground mindfully, building insight, coping and communication skills.
It seems we often desire a sense of secure connection while also living in line with our authentic self. My therapeutic style is integrative and relational based, emphasizing mind-body work and self-compassion. My clients might experience: addiction, panic, worry, codependency, perfectionism, depression, impulsivity, interpersonal conflict, avoidance, attachment wounds, people pleasing, shame, trauma, loneliness, trouble relaxing, life adjustments, limiting core beliefs, mood swings. Client needs/goals might include: attunement, decreasing stress, learning to ground mindfully, building insight, coping and communication skills.
(608) 889-2249 View (608) 889-2249
Photo of Elaine Cohn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Elaine Cohn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
I work in a collaborative way to help you define your needs and desires and learn what is getting in the way of reaching your goals. Together, we will explore your past and present experiences including issues such as fear, anxiety, depression, self-doubt and family of origin, and discover the potential that lies within you.
I work in a collaborative way to help you define your needs and desires and learn what is getting in the way of reaching your goals. Together, we will explore your past and present experiences including issues such as fear, anxiety, depression, self-doubt and family of origin, and discover the potential that lies within you.
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Photo of Skyline Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Skyline Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
We all deserve to heal, to find meaning in our lives, and to have healthy, fulfilling relationships with ourselves, others, and the world around us. Clients I work with are often in therapy because they are overwhelmed by worry, stress, and sadness. I am honored to join my clients on their path to healing, as they bring courage, insight, and determination to our work together. While my clients may be children, teens, or adults, come from diverse backgrounds, and have different needs and goals, we all seek well-being and connection. I welcome clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations, backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures.
We all deserve to heal, to find meaning in our lives, and to have healthy, fulfilling relationships with ourselves, others, and the world around us. Clients I work with are often in therapy because they are overwhelmed by worry, stress, and sadness. I am honored to join my clients on their path to healing, as they bring courage, insight, and determination to our work together. While my clients may be children, teens, or adults, come from diverse backgrounds, and have different needs and goals, we all seek well-being and connection. I welcome clients of all gender identities, sexual orientations, backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures.
(458) 202-2921 View (458) 202-2921
Photo of Maddie Gregory, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Maddie Gregory
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Maddie. Licensed therapist, career counselor, and your very own personal hype-man as you navigate big transitions and changes in your life. As someone with a background in trauma informed care, I know the concept of exploring purpose, navigating transition, and being motivated for change can feel incredibly scary, overwhelming, and outright impossible at times. Together, we will take the necessary steps to guide you through self-reflection, identify clear, tangible goals, and create a plan for your next steps that feel manageable and purposeful. You deserve a life that is ALL the things, but most of all reflective of you.
Hi, I’m Maddie. Licensed therapist, career counselor, and your very own personal hype-man as you navigate big transitions and changes in your life. As someone with a background in trauma informed care, I know the concept of exploring purpose, navigating transition, and being motivated for change can feel incredibly scary, overwhelming, and outright impossible at times. Together, we will take the necessary steps to guide you through self-reflection, identify clear, tangible goals, and create a plan for your next steps that feel manageable and purposeful. You deserve a life that is ALL the things, but most of all reflective of you.
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Photo of Bob Dobres, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Bob Dobres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Are you curious about how counseling can help you? I enjoy working with people who would like to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and of the relationships in their lives. We work collaboratively to identify your priorities and therapy goals -- and to explore internal conflicts that may be getting in your way. When you feel heard and understood, you can start to discover the many unrealized facets of yourself, learn self acceptance and find clarity and purpose. Together we find meaning and direction.
Are you curious about how counseling can help you? I enjoy working with people who would like to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and of the relationships in their lives. We work collaboratively to identify your priorities and therapy goals -- and to explore internal conflicts that may be getting in your way. When you feel heard and understood, you can start to discover the many unrealized facets of yourself, learn self acceptance and find clarity and purpose. Together we find meaning and direction.
(503) 766-5540 View (503) 766-5540
Photo of Ann Krueger, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Ann Krueger
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Support for the curious. My counseling practice is centered around assisting clients in creating a deeper conscious connection to self. I guide clients into greater integration using mindful somatic psychotherapy (Hakomi), illuminating inner processes, disowned parts of self, well-practiced strategies for surviving and thriving, longings and desires, dreams and fears. With greater insight we can create a life in better alignment with ourselves. I work with an attachment and trauma-informed lens, and also use creative practices in my work. As an acupuncturist, philosophies from East Asian Medicine also inform my counseling work.
Support for the curious. My counseling practice is centered around assisting clients in creating a deeper conscious connection to self. I guide clients into greater integration using mindful somatic psychotherapy (Hakomi), illuminating inner processes, disowned parts of self, well-practiced strategies for surviving and thriving, longings and desires, dreams and fears. With greater insight we can create a life in better alignment with ourselves. I work with an attachment and trauma-informed lens, and also use creative practices in my work. As an acupuncturist, philosophies from East Asian Medicine also inform my counseling work.
(503) 483-8521 View (503) 483-8521
Photo of Blake Locher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Blake Locher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
As we navigate transitions and answer our inner call for change, we often need additional support. I am an interpersonal-focused therapist that works with you to create an empowering space in which you are free to be yourself, discover blind spots that may be getting in your way, and reclaim ownership of your life and what you want to do with it. My particular areas of work include shame, self-doubt, depression, anxiety, adjusting to life transitions, and adjusting to the effects of disabilities, as well as facilitating self-exploration and authentic identity development.
As we navigate transitions and answer our inner call for change, we often need additional support. I am an interpersonal-focused therapist that works with you to create an empowering space in which you are free to be yourself, discover blind spots that may be getting in your way, and reclaim ownership of your life and what you want to do with it. My particular areas of work include shame, self-doubt, depression, anxiety, adjusting to life transitions, and adjusting to the effects of disabilities, as well as facilitating self-exploration and authentic identity development.
(971) 279-7484 View (971) 279-7484
Photo of Natalie Rhodes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Natalie Rhodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I consider myself to be a body inclusive therapist who specializes in helping clients recover from disordered eating behaviors, weight stigma, body image concerns and impacts from diet culture. I also serve clients experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, family issues (such as divorce & addiction), adjustment issues, impacts from COVID-19 and trauma (such as intimate partner violence & sexual assault). I currently offer individual therapy for teens and adults. I am LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC affirming and knowledgeable.
I consider myself to be a body inclusive therapist who specializes in helping clients recover from disordered eating behaviors, weight stigma, body image concerns and impacts from diet culture. I also serve clients experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms, family issues (such as divorce & addiction), adjustment issues, impacts from COVID-19 and trauma (such as intimate partner violence & sexual assault). I currently offer individual therapy for teens and adults. I am LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC affirming and knowledgeable.
(503) 433-8831 View (503) 433-8831
Photo of Catherine Blanchard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Catherine Blanchard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
I draw from psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approaches in my practice. We work together to try and gain a deep understanding of the way your mind works. This can help you discover obstacles and possibly hidden patterns that are preventing you from getting more joy and fulfillment from life. Our work together is done in a safe, and compassionate atmosphere. I can help you improve relationships, increase self-esteem, find relief from depression and anxiety.
I draw from psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approaches in my practice. We work together to try and gain a deep understanding of the way your mind works. This can help you discover obstacles and possibly hidden patterns that are preventing you from getting more joy and fulfillment from life. Our work together is done in a safe, and compassionate atmosphere. I can help you improve relationships, increase self-esteem, find relief from depression and anxiety.
(503) 549-4380 View (503) 549-4380
Photo of Kate McNulty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kate McNulty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Online therapy in OR, WA, ME, NY & FL. I use a down-to-earth approach and provide active, engaged therapy with plenty of feedback. The best help I provide is often through raising thoughtful questions. Clients appreciate the handouts and other suggestions for resources we use. I especially enjoy helping people with relationship improvement and making relationship decisions. I use a systematic approach to these concerns and you can expect results. I'm sorry to say it can be difficult to arrange free phone consultations, but please email me and I will promptly provide details. My books: Love and Asperger's, Parenting Adult Children.
Online therapy in OR, WA, ME, NY & FL. I use a down-to-earth approach and provide active, engaged therapy with plenty of feedback. The best help I provide is often through raising thoughtful questions. Clients appreciate the handouts and other suggestions for resources we use. I especially enjoy helping people with relationship improvement and making relationship decisions. I use a systematic approach to these concerns and you can expect results. I'm sorry to say it can be difficult to arrange free phone consultations, but please email me and I will promptly provide details. My books: Love and Asperger's, Parenting Adult Children.
(503) 295-6265 View (503) 295-6265
Photo of Samantha Sudano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Samantha Sudano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Most of us wonder what life is all about and desire a higher degree of satisfaction in general. Each one of us has unique challenges that is more easily faced with support from another person. Together we will journey through the intricacies of your experience in order to gain insight and awareness. Armed with these two tools we can then move forward in the uncovering of your true self and life path. Within this process, wounds will be explored and cared for, giving you more space for what it is that you want in life!
Most of us wonder what life is all about and desire a higher degree of satisfaction in general. Each one of us has unique challenges that is more easily faced with support from another person. Together we will journey through the intricacies of your experience in order to gain insight and awareness. Armed with these two tools we can then move forward in the uncovering of your true self and life path. Within this process, wounds will be explored and cared for, giving you more space for what it is that you want in life!
(458) 216-5763 View (458) 216-5763
Photo of Carin Lee Cunningham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Carin Lee Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97218  (Online Only)
My goal is to meet the client where they are at and work together towards identifying what their struggles are, what gets in the way of addressing them and building skills to grow from there. Using mindfulness to increase awareness and understanding of the connection between mind and body we learn to recognize how emotions and other factors impact mood, attitude, attention and relationships. I view people through a trauma informed lens to ensure that all aspects of their past and present are considered possible influencers and may need to be better understood. I like to say my hope as your therapist is "helping you help yourself".
My goal is to meet the client where they are at and work together towards identifying what their struggles are, what gets in the way of addressing them and building skills to grow from there. Using mindfulness to increase awareness and understanding of the connection between mind and body we learn to recognize how emotions and other factors impact mood, attitude, attention and relationships. I view people through a trauma informed lens to ensure that all aspects of their past and present are considered possible influencers and may need to be better understood. I like to say my hope as your therapist is "helping you help yourself".
(503) 300-4019 View (503) 300-4019
Photo of Dr. Jae P. Douglas in Portland, OR
Dr. Jae P. Douglas
LMSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
Jae Douglas is a social worker in Portland OR, where she works with adults of all ages. Dr. Douglas is particularly passionate about working with people experiencing or contemplating major life changes due to health, relationship or professional challenges. Many of her clients are facing decisions in the context of the loss of the familiar. Her style is warm, thoughtful, active and engaging. She supports and guides her clients in exploring how their life experience, skills, strengths and insights can be brought to bear on their current situation so as to find and move authentically and positively forward.
Jae Douglas is a social worker in Portland OR, where she works with adults of all ages. Dr. Douglas is particularly passionate about working with people experiencing or contemplating major life changes due to health, relationship or professional challenges. Many of her clients are facing decisions in the context of the loss of the familiar. Her style is warm, thoughtful, active and engaging. She supports and guides her clients in exploring how their life experience, skills, strengths and insights can be brought to bear on their current situation so as to find and move authentically and positively forward.
(971) 251-9881 View (971) 251-9881
Photo of Zachary Smith, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Zachary Smith
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I have been practicing in the mental health field for several years working with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, existential concerns, and other mental health issues. I specialize in working with individuals across the disability spectrum: those who deal with psychological, cognitive, neurological, physical, and intellectual disabilities. I live with a spinal cord injury and identify as an individual with a disability which allows me the privilege to make a deeper connection with those who deal with chronic conditions that may impede on their desired quality of life.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for several years working with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, existential concerns, and other mental health issues. I specialize in working with individuals across the disability spectrum: those who deal with psychological, cognitive, neurological, physical, and intellectual disabilities. I live with a spinal cord injury and identify as an individual with a disability which allows me the privilege to make a deeper connection with those who deal with chronic conditions that may impede on their desired quality of life.
(503) 966-5665 View (503) 966-5665
Photo of Mary Bright, Counselor in Portland, OR
Mary Bright
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Hello & Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here making the courageous choice to get support versus struggling alone. I see my most essential role in our work together as being a fellow traveler, providing deep listening, honoring and respecting your individual path, and believing fully in your innate ability to create and sustain a life of passion, meaning, and hope through the many challenges we all face in our changing world. During my 17 years of work as a professional counselor, I have gotten to experience the profound honor of being witness to my clients' rediscovering their most courageous, wise, and truest selves.
Hello & Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here making the courageous choice to get support versus struggling alone. I see my most essential role in our work together as being a fellow traveler, providing deep listening, honoring and respecting your individual path, and believing fully in your innate ability to create and sustain a life of passion, meaning, and hope through the many challenges we all face in our changing world. During my 17 years of work as a professional counselor, I have gotten to experience the profound honor of being witness to my clients' rediscovering their most courageous, wise, and truest selves.
(971) 983-8201 View (971) 983-8201
April Crofut
MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychiatrist with a practice focused on psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I work with adults seeking help for emotional concerns such as difficulties with relationships, identity, self-esteem, limiting patterns of behavior, and/or symptoms like anxiety and depression. My approach involves getting to know you as a whole person and exploring the nature of your distress in a creative, thoughtful, collaborative way.
I am a psychiatrist with a practice focused on psychoanalytic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. I work with adults seeking help for emotional concerns such as difficulties with relationships, identity, self-esteem, limiting patterns of behavior, and/or symptoms like anxiety and depression. My approach involves getting to know you as a whole person and exploring the nature of your distress in a creative, thoughtful, collaborative way.
(503) 946-5280 View (503) 946-5280
Photo of Zainab Lavender Abdullah, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
Zainab Lavender Abdullah
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Through a non-judgmental and empathetically based therapeutic relationship, I work to provide guidance in the process of increasing self-awareness, practicing self-acceptance, and ultimately having the client self-reflect in a way that brings confidence in their continuing life choices and experiences.
Through a non-judgmental and empathetically based therapeutic relationship, I work to provide guidance in the process of increasing self-awareness, practicing self-acceptance, and ultimately having the client self-reflect in a way that brings confidence in their continuing life choices and experiences.
(971) 205-6185 View (971) 205-6185
Photo of Kimberly Gerhardt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kimberly Gerhardt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97230  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
(971) 801-6302 View (971) 801-6302

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
37% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

55% In Person and Online
45% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.