Therapists in Topeka, KS

Photo of Shianne Cokely, Licensed Professional Counselor in Topeka, KS
Shianne Cokely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66606
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, I earned my Bachelor degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Education from Emporia State University and my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fort Hays State University. I am a Mom, Christian, Mentor, and Lover of the Outdoors. Whether you are seeking support for a better life balance, desire to improve your relationships, or are struggling with challenges in your life - I am here to listen and support you. I believe in the value of a genuine client and counselor relationship and want to walk with you through whatever you may be facing.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, I earned my Bachelor degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Education from Emporia State University and my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fort Hays State University. I am a Mom, Christian, Mentor, and Lover of the Outdoors. Whether you are seeking support for a better life balance, desire to improve your relationships, or are struggling with challenges in your life - I am here to listen and support you. I believe in the value of a genuine client and counselor relationship and want to walk with you through whatever you may be facing.
(785) 264-6403 View (785) 264-6403
Photo of Anaif Counseling and Assessment Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Anaif Counseling and Assessment Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LMAC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Social Worker who believes in helping individuals, families and groups achieve their greatest potential, through self empowerment, coping skills and self determination.
I am a Clinical Social Worker who believes in helping individuals, families and groups achieve their greatest potential, through self empowerment, coping skills and self determination.
(785) 214-4157 View (785) 214-4157
Photo of Jim Lance Woodward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Jim Lance Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
(785) 322-8592 View (785) 322-8592
Photo of Thomas S Bartlett, Psychologist in Topeka, KS
Thomas S Bartlett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Not accepting new clients
"I work with each client to develop a treatment approach that meets their goals and individual requirements. I believe that people are more than a diagnosis or static label and my work places an emphasis on the person with a challenge rather than simply focus on the challenge alone. The therapeutic process is more than helping a person to develop positive thinking or an optimistic attitude, but involves helping the person gain an understanding of how they can approach the world to obtain the greatest satisfaction from their relationships, their work and their life in general."
"I work with each client to develop a treatment approach that meets their goals and individual requirements. I believe that people are more than a diagnosis or static label and my work places an emphasis on the person with a challenge rather than simply focus on the challenge alone. The therapeutic process is more than helping a person to develop positive thinking or an optimistic attitude, but involves helping the person gain an understanding of how they can approach the world to obtain the greatest satisfaction from their relationships, their work and their life in general."
(785) 260-2747 View (785) 260-2747
Photo of Barbara StreckerGaudreau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Barbara StreckerGaudreau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66604  (Online Only)
I have 30+ years experience working in Mental Health. I'm a graduate of KU School of Social Welfare and have vast experience working with diverse clients. In my practice, I work to empower clients to reach their goals. I use problem-solving, positive therapeutic approaches "in partnership" with my clients to reduce co-dependency, depression, anxiety, stress, relationships and parent/child issues.
I have 30+ years experience working in Mental Health. I'm a graduate of KU School of Social Welfare and have vast experience working with diverse clients. In my practice, I work to empower clients to reach their goals. I use problem-solving, positive therapeutic approaches "in partnership" with my clients to reduce co-dependency, depression, anxiety, stress, relationships and parent/child issues.
(785) 428-4049 View (785) 428-4049
Photo of Laurynn Lake in Topeka, KS
Laurynn Lake
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
It's time to put yourself first, reaching out for help is often the hardest part of the therapeutic process. As a Therapist I believe in the importance of providing Clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand the thoughts and feelings that may arise when dealing with life challenges. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a parent struggling with your child’s behaviors, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
It's time to put yourself first, reaching out for help is often the hardest part of the therapeutic process. As a Therapist I believe in the importance of providing Clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand the thoughts and feelings that may arise when dealing with life challenges. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a parent struggling with your child’s behaviors, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
(785) 264-6349 View (785) 264-6349
Photo of Yolanda Wilson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Topeka, KS
Yolanda Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Working with youth ages 7-17, making a case by case exception for youth 4-6. Children with ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, and Depression are the main diagnoses treated. Evening hours available.
Working with youth ages 7-17, making a case by case exception for youth 4-6. Children with ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, and Depression are the main diagnoses treated. Evening hours available.
(785) 675-5472 View (785) 675-5472
Photo of Jason Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Jason Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
If you have found my page, you or someone you know are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger or some other stressor. Therapy is useful as it will help you develop new ways to manage these issues especially in the way you think about them. Helping people learn about themselves and grow is my passion. Discarding old patterns of behavior/thinking and developing new one's will be the primary goal while working together. I find this to be very exciting and somewhat challenging but definitely worth all the effort in the end.
If you have found my page, you or someone you know are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger or some other stressor. Therapy is useful as it will help you develop new ways to manage these issues especially in the way you think about them. Helping people learn about themselves and grow is my passion. Discarding old patterns of behavior/thinking and developing new one's will be the primary goal while working together. I find this to be very exciting and somewhat challenging but definitely worth all the effort in the end.
(785) 859-4330 View (785) 859-4330
Photo of Beth Chippendale Katona, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Topeka, KS
Beth Chippendale Katona
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66603  (Online Only)
Beth Katona is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCAC) who has extensive experience with group, couples, and individual counseling, Beth specializes in many areas such as anxiety/depression, family and relationship issues, grief, dual diagnosis, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse. She has 15 years of experience in the mental health field and her diverse professional background includes business management and extensive experience working with children and families in the foster care system.
Beth Katona is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCAC) who has extensive experience with group, couples, and individual counseling, Beth specializes in many areas such as anxiety/depression, family and relationship issues, grief, dual diagnosis, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse. She has 15 years of experience in the mental health field and her diverse professional background includes business management and extensive experience working with children and families in the foster care system.
(785) 675-5747 View (785) 675-5747
Photo of Bryan Beaty, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Topeka, KS
Bryan Beaty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Hi! I’m Bryan. My hope is to provide clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand thoughts and feelings that may arise through life. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, life changes, and trauma. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a teenager struggling to make meaningful relationships, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
Hi! I’m Bryan. My hope is to provide clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand thoughts and feelings that may arise through life. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, life changes, and trauma. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a teenager struggling to make meaningful relationships, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
(785) 264-5850 View (785) 264-5850
Photo of Zinaia L Armstead, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Zinaia L Armstead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AAS, BAS, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Life can be challenging and the experiences along the way can cause stress, anxiety, and depression to name a few mental health issues that may affect your everyday life. In therapy, I understand the importance of having someone to talk to about issues and experiences in life. You will be met with respect, empathy, genuineness, supportive and active listening, and unconditional positive regard. Together we will work on your goals for therapy. You will be met where you are in the therapeutic journey, and be provided a safe environment to express your feelings, thoughts, challenges, and concerns.
Life can be challenging and the experiences along the way can cause stress, anxiety, and depression to name a few mental health issues that may affect your everyday life. In therapy, I understand the importance of having someone to talk to about issues and experiences in life. You will be met with respect, empathy, genuineness, supportive and active listening, and unconditional positive regard. Together we will work on your goals for therapy. You will be met where you are in the therapeutic journey, and be provided a safe environment to express your feelings, thoughts, challenges, and concerns.
(785) 264-4662 View (785) 264-4662
Photo of Daniel Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Daniel Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LMAC-t
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66612
As the founder of E.P.I.C. LLC, I am deeply committed to empowering individuals in their communities at pivotal moments. My passion lies in assisting those at a crossroads, ready to embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery, resilience, and fulfillment. Utilizing an Eclectic therapy approach, I blend techniques from various therapeutic methods to fit your needs. This creates a safe space to explore, understand, and grow. My expertise equips me to guide you toward not just surviving but thriving in a life that's authentically yours. Let's connect if you seek a partner to navigate your path to a joyful, meaningful life.
As the founder of E.P.I.C. LLC, I am deeply committed to empowering individuals in their communities at pivotal moments. My passion lies in assisting those at a crossroads, ready to embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery, resilience, and fulfillment. Utilizing an Eclectic therapy approach, I blend techniques from various therapeutic methods to fit your needs. This creates a safe space to explore, understand, and grow. My expertise equips me to guide you toward not just surviving but thriving in a life that's authentically yours. Let's connect if you seek a partner to navigate your path to a joyful, meaningful life.
(785) 508-1117 View (785) 508-1117
Photo of Timothy Erin Rush, Licensed Professional Counselor in Topeka, KS
Timothy Erin Rush
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66604
We can overcome what holds us back. Overcoming OCD and other personal challenges led me into the counseling field, and my commitment is to help you develop and implement your own unique process of renovation, healing, and change. While reaching out for help may be difficult and create feelings of vulnerability, it is often the necessary first step on one of life's most important journeys--the journey of uncovering and maximizing your potential. Based on personal experience, I believe that the rewards are likely to exceed the feelings of risk.
We can overcome what holds us back. Overcoming OCD and other personal challenges led me into the counseling field, and my commitment is to help you develop and implement your own unique process of renovation, healing, and change. While reaching out for help may be difficult and create feelings of vulnerability, it is often the necessary first step on one of life's most important journeys--the journey of uncovering and maximizing your potential. Based on personal experience, I believe that the rewards are likely to exceed the feelings of risk.
(785) 975-8180 View (785) 975-8180
Photo of Karen D Kriger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Topeka, KS
Karen D Kriger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604
Not accepting new clients
You are meant to thrive. I believe that every life circumstance carries the potential to grow our health, resilience & sense of Self. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside to help & hope for us as we heal & make sense of our stories. Helping couples, families, adults & children pursue this healing & transformation is a privilege.
You are meant to thrive. I believe that every life circumstance carries the potential to grow our health, resilience & sense of Self. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside to help & hope for us as we heal & make sense of our stories. Helping couples, families, adults & children pursue this healing & transformation is a privilege.
(785) 450-1426 View (785) 450-1426
Photo of Robert G Heckler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Robert G Heckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66603
Practicing in mental health for 41 years; hospitals, group homes, community mental health and private practice. Worked with all populations, with every kind of problem and type of mental disorder. Recent focus on ages23-75, with trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and relationships, incorporating mindfulness, relaxation and anger management and doing thorough, ongoing assessments. Clients who use substances are asked to abstain while in therapy. Changing the brain requires that. Regular attendance is necessary. Positive skills come with practice and consistency. To maintain the progress, there are avenues for contact during the week.
Practicing in mental health for 41 years; hospitals, group homes, community mental health and private practice. Worked with all populations, with every kind of problem and type of mental disorder. Recent focus on ages23-75, with trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and relationships, incorporating mindfulness, relaxation and anger management and doing thorough, ongoing assessments. Clients who use substances are asked to abstain while in therapy. Changing the brain requires that. Regular attendance is necessary. Positive skills come with practice and consistency. To maintain the progress, there are avenues for contact during the week.
(785) 579-9952 View (785) 579-9952
Photo of Kara Westgate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Kara Westgate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604
All individuals have the capacity for growth and change, as well as to move beyond life's stumbling blocks, if given the opportunity and with adequate support. In my office, you will find an atmosphere of comfort, relaxation, warmth and acceptance. I work with clients who experience an array of personal and relational difficulties. You deserve to feel empowered and encouraged to utilize your strengths to make the positive changes necessary to feel better. It is an honor for me to accompany you on your journey toward feeling less depressed, anxious, frustrated, overwhelmed...whatever it is that you are experiencing.
All individuals have the capacity for growth and change, as well as to move beyond life's stumbling blocks, if given the opportunity and with adequate support. In my office, you will find an atmosphere of comfort, relaxation, warmth and acceptance. I work with clients who experience an array of personal and relational difficulties. You deserve to feel empowered and encouraged to utilize your strengths to make the positive changes necessary to feel better. It is an honor for me to accompany you on your journey toward feeling less depressed, anxious, frustrated, overwhelmed...whatever it is that you are experiencing.
(785) 337-4100 View (785) 337-4100
Photo of Optimum Performance Solutions LLC, Psychologist in Topeka, KS
Optimum Performance Solutions LLC
Psychologist, PhD, NRHSPP, BCN, BCB, QEEGT
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I am deeply committed to each client achieving their optimum functioning. Across the range from disabled to the extremely high functioning executive, I ask that the client bring a commitment to growth, and I provide expertise in a range of specialties. I am best suited to treating the whole person.
I am deeply committed to each client achieving their optimum functioning. Across the range from disabled to the extremely high functioning executive, I ask that the client bring a commitment to growth, and I provide expertise in a range of specialties. I am best suited to treating the whole person.
(785) 571-9901 View (785) 571-9901
Photo of Art McKenna, Psychologist in Topeka, KS
Art McKenna
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
My therapy & counseling are based on the life experiences and the philosophy of Viktor Frankl. His writings describe the kinds of the situation from which he and his fellow prisoners at Auschwitz were able, on a day-to-day basis, to extract the life-sustaining meaning that was essential to their survival. My therapy has three levels: (1) use mindfulness and relaxation methods to calm the emotional brain down, and (2) use cognitive-behavioral to develop a healthy sense of resiliency. In the 3rd stage, you will learn self-distancing techniques to discover meaningfulness at the moment and find better ways to expand your uniqueness.
My therapy & counseling are based on the life experiences and the philosophy of Viktor Frankl. His writings describe the kinds of the situation from which he and his fellow prisoners at Auschwitz were able, on a day-to-day basis, to extract the life-sustaining meaning that was essential to their survival. My therapy has three levels: (1) use mindfulness and relaxation methods to calm the emotional brain down, and (2) use cognitive-behavioral to develop a healthy sense of resiliency. In the 3rd stage, you will learn self-distancing techniques to discover meaningfulness at the moment and find better ways to expand your uniqueness.
(785) 509-7915 View (785) 509-7915
Photo of Kerri Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Kerri Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I am a licensed master social worker, as well as a certified enneagram coach. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, working with individuals, children, families, and couples. I specialize in working with women, in particular mothers, in combating mom guilt. In addition to utilizing the enneagram, I utilize solution-focused and strengths-based perspectives in treatment. I believe therapy is a vulnerable and personal decision, and I want each person to feel empowered and supported through their journey. I look forward to working with you.
I am a licensed master social worker, as well as a certified enneagram coach. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, working with individuals, children, families, and couples. I specialize in working with women, in particular mothers, in combating mom guilt. In addition to utilizing the enneagram, I utilize solution-focused and strengths-based perspectives in treatment. I believe therapy is a vulnerable and personal decision, and I want each person to feel empowered and supported through their journey. I look forward to working with you.
(785) 333-5769 View (785) 333-5769
Photo of Jessica Poell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Topeka, KS
Jessica Poell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Elizabeth Kubler Ross said, “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of those depths.” While you may not have chosen the difficulties & struggles you’ve faced,& it may feel that there is no way through, I believe you have the strength & ability to overcome all obstacles in your path. It may seem impossible or overwhelming, & the peace & calm you so desperately desire might appear unattainable, I believe you already have all the tools necessary to become that beautiful person you envision for yourself & I would like to help you.
Elizabeth Kubler Ross said, “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of those depths.” While you may not have chosen the difficulties & struggles you’ve faced,& it may feel that there is no way through, I believe you have the strength & ability to overcome all obstacles in your path. It may seem impossible or overwhelming, & the peace & calm you so desperately desire might appear unattainable, I believe you already have all the tools necessary to become that beautiful person you envision for yourself & I would like to help you.
(316) 974-1274 View (316) 974-1274

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Topeka, KS

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Topeka, KS who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Stress
73% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
56% Medicaid
54% Aetna

How Therapists in Topeka, KS see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Topeka?

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.