Therapists in Chesterfield, VA

Photo of Paul And Vonda Chipman in Chesterfield, VA
Paul And Vonda Chipman
MEd, DMin, ThM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Life can be difficult at times. We all need help. We all need our hope renewed. We are here to help you to maneuver and overcome the challenges you are experiencing. Let us help to give you hope to cope. HOPE FOR THE HOME offers Christian Counseling that focuses on healing for the whole-person ( spirit, soul, and body). Our compassionate and professionally trained pastoral counselors will work together with you to seek biblical and psychological treatments to heal and restore your mind, soul, body, and relationships.
Life can be difficult at times. We all need help. We all need our hope renewed. We are here to help you to maneuver and overcome the challenges you are experiencing. Let us help to give you hope to cope. HOPE FOR THE HOME offers Christian Counseling that focuses on healing for the whole-person ( spirit, soul, and body). Our compassionate and professionally trained pastoral counselors will work together with you to seek biblical and psychological treatments to heal and restore your mind, soul, body, and relationships.
(804) 419-7616 View (804) 419-7616
Photo of Britni Higginbotham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Britni Higginbotham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor offering in-person individual therapy for adults. Areas I enjoy working with through therapy are adoptive parent(s) related grief or trauma, attachment, infidelity or fertility-related trauma or grief, overwhelmed and overstimulated mothers, and trauma. I pull from IFS, EMDR, DBT and Gottman models in our sessions to best meet your needs.  My role is to create a safe environment where your feelings and boundaries are respected. My aim is to provide you with support and empower you with the necessary tools to handle challenging or traumatic experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor offering in-person individual therapy for adults. Areas I enjoy working with through therapy are adoptive parent(s) related grief or trauma, attachment, infidelity or fertility-related trauma or grief, overwhelmed and overstimulated mothers, and trauma. I pull from IFS, EMDR, DBT and Gottman models in our sessions to best meet your needs.  My role is to create a safe environment where your feelings and boundaries are respected. My aim is to provide you with support and empower you with the necessary tools to handle challenging or traumatic experience.
(804) 593-0712 View (804) 593-0712
Photo of Paul Chipman II, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Paul Chipman II
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Over the years I've worked with kids and adolescents in residential settings, school, and in home/parent coaching with: anger and stress management, communication, social skills, coping skills, depression, self-esteem, opposition/compliance, impulsivity, anxiety, emotional regulation and problem-solving skills. I truly believe that for the child to make progress and maintain, the parent's involvement is essential. Additionally, I do therapy with adults, families and marriage counseling. I have limited availability to offer. My preference is to be reached by email. Please mention your insurance provider as well as your availability.
Over the years I've worked with kids and adolescents in residential settings, school, and in home/parent coaching with: anger and stress management, communication, social skills, coping skills, depression, self-esteem, opposition/compliance, impulsivity, anxiety, emotional regulation and problem-solving skills. I truly believe that for the child to make progress and maintain, the parent's involvement is essential. Additionally, I do therapy with adults, families and marriage counseling. I have limited availability to offer. My preference is to be reached by email. Please mention your insurance provider as well as your availability.
(804) 313-9789 View (804) 313-9789
Photo of Carrie Meyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
Carrie Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Teletherapy services offered in the states of Virginia and New Hampshire. If you strip away all the buzz phrases and five dollar words, at the end of the day, therapy boils down to a conversation about what is meaningful to you in life at this exact moment in time. As a seasoned therapist with over twenty five years of mental health experience, I seek to offer insight, support, and alliance with you as we explore what brings you to therapy and help you find your own answers. With a balance of straight forward observation and compassion, we will collaborate together to help you gain a sense of control and serenity in your life.
Teletherapy services offered in the states of Virginia and New Hampshire. If you strip away all the buzz phrases and five dollar words, at the end of the day, therapy boils down to a conversation about what is meaningful to you in life at this exact moment in time. As a seasoned therapist with over twenty five years of mental health experience, I seek to offer insight, support, and alliance with you as we explore what brings you to therapy and help you find your own answers. With a balance of straight forward observation and compassion, we will collaborate together to help you gain a sense of control and serenity in your life.
(804) 375-4940 View (804) 375-4940
Photo of Shelby Pearce, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chesterfield, VA
Shelby Pearce
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-R, QMHPA/C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space.
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space.
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Photo of Chad Sims, Psychologist in Chesterfield, VA
Chad Sims
Psychologist, PhD, MSEd, LCP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Chad and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. There are times in life wherein we need support to help us manage its challenges and difficulties. My goal is to support you on your life's journey toward peace, joy, and stability. I truly believe that change can occur through having a safe and brave space to process thoughts and emotions, by learning effective culturally centered coping techniques, and by learning how to develop and utilize support systems. You don't have to face your challenges alone...I am here to help, and please be assured that HOPE is always on the horizon. I look forward to working with you.
Hi, my name is Chad and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. There are times in life wherein we need support to help us manage its challenges and difficulties. My goal is to support you on your life's journey toward peace, joy, and stability. I truly believe that change can occur through having a safe and brave space to process thoughts and emotions, by learning effective culturally centered coping techniques, and by learning how to develop and utilize support systems. You don't have to face your challenges alone...I am here to help, and please be assured that HOPE is always on the horizon. I look forward to working with you.
(804) 348-0787 View (804) 348-0787
Photo of Ashely Ryan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Ashely Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Ashely Ryan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic treatment services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Throughout her career, she has helped individuals in the areas of mood management, anger management, substance use/abuse, trauma, self-esteem, grief/loss, anxiety, stress management, and interpersonal skills.
Ashely Ryan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic treatment services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Throughout her career, she has helped individuals in the areas of mood management, anger management, substance use/abuse, trauma, self-esteem, grief/loss, anxiety, stress management, and interpersonal skills.
(804) 635-3995 View (804) 635-3995
Photo of True Connections Counseling & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
True Connections Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Currently NOT Accepting New Clients...Are you feeling stuck, unmotivated, or confused? Are you an individual who wants it all and does it all but rarely asks for help with any of it? Maybe life’s circumstances are causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or inadequate. At times, it may be difficult to find the right words to describe what you are feeling and may need some clarity. If you feel this way and are ready for change, you don't have to go through this alone. In our sessions, you are provided a safe space where you can remove your "superhero” cape and be supported through the journey of self-awareness and positive change.
Currently NOT Accepting New Clients...Are you feeling stuck, unmotivated, or confused? Are you an individual who wants it all and does it all but rarely asks for help with any of it? Maybe life’s circumstances are causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or inadequate. At times, it may be difficult to find the right words to describe what you are feeling and may need some clarity. If you feel this way and are ready for change, you don't have to go through this alone. In our sessions, you are provided a safe space where you can remove your "superhero” cape and be supported through the journey of self-awareness and positive change.
(804) 258-6941 View (804) 258-6941
Photo of Julissa Frias, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Julissa Frias
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
A client is someone who actively engages in the therapeutic process with openness, honesty, and a genuine commitment to personal growth. This individual is willing to explore and reflect on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, fostering a collaborative relationship with the therapist. Overall, a client embraces the therapeutic journey, and is dedicated to making positive changes in their life. Throughout my career, I have also worked with the immigrant community, allowing me to comprehend and address their distinctive needs effectively. Fluent in Spanish.
A client is someone who actively engages in the therapeutic process with openness, honesty, and a genuine commitment to personal growth. This individual is willing to explore and reflect on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, fostering a collaborative relationship with the therapist. Overall, a client embraces the therapeutic journey, and is dedicated to making positive changes in their life. Throughout my career, I have also worked with the immigrant community, allowing me to comprehend and address their distinctive needs effectively. Fluent in Spanish.
(804) 293-2829 View (804) 293-2829
Photo of Michael Merlino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Michael Merlino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Michael Merlino is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 10 years working in the mental health field with a variety of different populations. He has experience working with all age groups, including children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. Michael specializes in working with clients experiencing mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and other major life transitions.
Michael Merlino is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 10 years working in the mental health field with a variety of different populations. He has experience working with all age groups, including children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. Michael specializes in working with clients experiencing mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and other major life transitions.
(804) 534-1772 View (804) 534-1772
Photo of Ashley Fayak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Ashley Fayak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping women and men who are facing anxiety, grief, and trauma so that they can get back to feeling like life is enjoyable again. I help my clients facilitate a journey of self discovery as we identify and uncover the root causes of their anxiety and work towards getting out of that trauma,anxiety loop and building new responses to situations causing anxiety. I help clients with grief, make space for their grief and honor their loved one in a way that feels authentic to now. I also help clients with trauma and PTSD re-establish safety in their own bodies and in their minds, while also reprocessing the trauma.
I have a passion for helping women and men who are facing anxiety, grief, and trauma so that they can get back to feeling like life is enjoyable again. I help my clients facilitate a journey of self discovery as we identify and uncover the root causes of their anxiety and work towards getting out of that trauma,anxiety loop and building new responses to situations causing anxiety. I help clients with grief, make space for their grief and honor their loved one in a way that feels authentic to now. I also help clients with trauma and PTSD re-establish safety in their own bodies and in their minds, while also reprocessing the trauma.
(757) 600-6580 View (757) 600-6580
Photo of Allison A Dyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
Allison A Dyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
I have had the privilege of working with clients facing a diverse range of life challenges, both past and present. From anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship struggles, I am here to help. My area of expertise lies in assisting clients with intrusive traumatic memories, empowering them to develop effective coping skills and engaging in the process of reprocessing those memories.
I have had the privilege of working with clients facing a diverse range of life challenges, both past and present. From anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship struggles, I am here to help. My area of expertise lies in assisting clients with intrusive traumatic memories, empowering them to develop effective coping skills and engaging in the process of reprocessing those memories.
(804) 492-0743 View (804) 492-0743
Photo of Amy E Goodman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Amy E Goodman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
I don't really believe in the idea of "an ideal client". Each person brings their unique experiences with them. It's my job, as a therapist, to meet you where you are right here, right now.
I don't really believe in the idea of "an ideal client". Each person brings their unique experiences with them. It's my job, as a therapist, to meet you where you are right here, right now.
(804) 395-5913 View (804) 395-5913
Photo of Freya Rodriguez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chesterfield, VA
Freya Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
One of the most useful tools that a therapist has is the relationship that is built between the client and clinician. I believe that therapy can mirror the process of building new friendships, there will be people that you connect with and I hope I will be one of them. I have experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Family therapy, survivors of violence, and more. My goal is to work together to identify a treatment that feels obtainable for you while encouraging strength and growth. I am also able to offer services in Spanish and understand the complexities of growing up in two different cultures.
One of the most useful tools that a therapist has is the relationship that is built between the client and clinician. I believe that therapy can mirror the process of building new friendships, there will be people that you connect with and I hope I will be one of them. I have experience working with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Family therapy, survivors of violence, and more. My goal is to work together to identify a treatment that feels obtainable for you while encouraging strength and growth. I am also able to offer services in Spanish and understand the complexities of growing up in two different cultures.
(804) 657-4957 View (804) 657-4957
Photo of Sharry Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
Sharry Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
My work as a psychotherapist is rooted in a profound belief that by recognizing and honoring our complex, messy life stories with honesty and gentleness, we lay the foundation to heal the obstacles preventing us from building fulfilling, meaningful lives. Throughout life, we all create narratives about ourselves to help us survive. These narratives are shaped by myriad factors (individual life experiences, relationships, intergenerational legacies, and experiences of oppression/privilege, belonging/rejection, among others). Over time, our narratives and coping mechanisms fall short. We wonder, what went wrong? What's wrong with me?
My work as a psychotherapist is rooted in a profound belief that by recognizing and honoring our complex, messy life stories with honesty and gentleness, we lay the foundation to heal the obstacles preventing us from building fulfilling, meaningful lives. Throughout life, we all create narratives about ourselves to help us survive. These narratives are shaped by myriad factors (individual life experiences, relationships, intergenerational legacies, and experiences of oppression/privilege, belonging/rejection, among others). Over time, our narratives and coping mechanisms fall short. We wonder, what went wrong? What's wrong with me?
(860) 613-6511 View (860) 613-6511
Photo of Jacob Rheaume, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
Jacob Rheaume
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Jacob is a dedicated therapist enthusiastic about working with individuals of all ages as they negotiate their way through difficult times. Jacob has experience working with individuals (and their families) who struggle with substance abuse, depression, sexual identity, anxiety, self-identity, self-worth, self-esteem, behavioral issues, and symptoms of ADHD. Jacob is committed to helping clients find new language and new internal dialogue to help improve overall functioning. Jacob is committed to helping clients face and overcome their hurts, harms, and hang ups.
Jacob is a dedicated therapist enthusiastic about working with individuals of all ages as they negotiate their way through difficult times. Jacob has experience working with individuals (and their families) who struggle with substance abuse, depression, sexual identity, anxiety, self-identity, self-worth, self-esteem, behavioral issues, and symptoms of ADHD. Jacob is committed to helping clients find new language and new internal dialogue to help improve overall functioning. Jacob is committed to helping clients face and overcome their hurts, harms, and hang ups.
(804) 395-6816 View (804) 395-6816
Photo of Nora Vassar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
Nora Vassar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23838  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia currently providing video psychotherapy sessions. My patients are older teens and adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship and family issues, poor self image and academic and professional stressors. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University, where I focused on the impact substance abuse and mental health challenges have on the individual across the life span.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia currently providing video psychotherapy sessions. My patients are older teens and adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship and family issues, poor self image and academic and professional stressors. I earned my Master's Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University, where I focused on the impact substance abuse and mental health challenges have on the individual across the life span.
(804) 570-2663 View (804) 570-2663
Photo of Lauren Sapko, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chesterfield, VA
Lauren Sapko
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHP-s
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
I enjoy working with all individuals struggling to manage their mental and emotional health. I have experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
I enjoy working with all individuals struggling to manage their mental and emotional health. I have experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(804) 626-9352 View (804) 626-9352
Photo of Cathy Juanita Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
Cathy Juanita Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider. I am committed to assist individuals in healing from childhood and adulthood trauma. My goal is to provide individuals with a healthier perspective about life, the resources and support to make decisions and behavioral changes. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and groups who have challenges managing symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety, Anger management, Bipolar Disorder, Depression and PTSD. Individuals are assisted in developing treatment plans to develop coping and social skills to enhance their quality of life.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider. I am committed to assist individuals in healing from childhood and adulthood trauma. My goal is to provide individuals with a healthier perspective about life, the resources and support to make decisions and behavioral changes. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and groups who have challenges managing symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety, Anger management, Bipolar Disorder, Depression and PTSD. Individuals are assisted in developing treatment plans to develop coping and social skills to enhance their quality of life.
(804) 655-5095 View (804) 655-5095
Photo of Move in Faith Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Move in Faith Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23838  (Online Only)
Are you seeking to overcome challenges and cultivate a positive outlook on life? Whether facing stagnation, life transitions, anxiety, depression, leadership hurdles, faith/spiritual guidance, parenting concerns, communication barriers, grief, identity issues, marital conflicts, or navigating life, let's collaborate on your goals. Together, we'll navigate from your current situation to a place of hope, joy, faith, and determination.
Are you seeking to overcome challenges and cultivate a positive outlook on life? Whether facing stagnation, life transitions, anxiety, depression, leadership hurdles, faith/spiritual guidance, parenting concerns, communication barriers, grief, identity issues, marital conflicts, or navigating life, let's collaborate on your goals. Together, we'll navigate from your current situation to a place of hope, joy, faith, and determination.
(804) 494-4323 View (804) 494-4323

See more therapy options for Chesterfield

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Chesterfield, VA

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Chesterfield, VA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
81% Self Esteem
78% Coping Skills
76% Stress
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Anthem | Elevance
82% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Chesterfield, VA see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Chesterfield?

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.