Therapists in Rapid City, SD

Photo of Debra Ann Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Debra Ann Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PIP, CDA
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702
Individuals seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Parents may be looking for assistance for their child as they are demonstrating behaviors. Couples may be struggling to communicate in their marriage. Individuals going through a divorce may need parent coordination to assist them in coordinating visitation. Each situation requires a therapist who is understanding and willing to see how they are being impacted individually. Clients are seeking help and wanting results.
Individuals seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Parents may be looking for assistance for their child as they are demonstrating behaviors. Couples may be struggling to communicate in their marriage. Individuals going through a divorce may need parent coordination to assist them in coordinating visitation. Each situation requires a therapist who is understanding and willing to see how they are being impacted individually. Clients are seeking help and wanting results.
(605) 307-3083 View (605) 307-3083
Photo of Jessica Hubner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Jessica Hubner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
Do you feel like the challenges you face in life are making you (and your loved ones) out to be crazy, a burden or a problem? I aim to carve out a comfortable healing space for people who are faced with problems that may be tricky to unravel, obstinate to change or that simply need a place to be aired-out and heard. I am interested in meeting people who may struggle to find a good fit with other counselors or people who are new to therapy and looking for a comfortable, personal and respectful relationship.
Do you feel like the challenges you face in life are making you (and your loved ones) out to be crazy, a burden or a problem? I aim to carve out a comfortable healing space for people who are faced with problems that may be tricky to unravel, obstinate to change or that simply need a place to be aired-out and heard. I am interested in meeting people who may struggle to find a good fit with other counselors or people who are new to therapy and looking for a comfortable, personal and respectful relationship.
(605) 646-4409 View (605) 646-4409
Photo of Mindy Hedlund, Psychologist in Rapid City, SD
Mindy Hedlund
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
If you have been suffering with feelings of anxiousness, depression, and/or experience negative thoughts that lead to distress, I would like to help . It takes courage to start therapy and share thoughts and feelings that you rarely give words to. The most important aspect of therapeutic work is the therapist client relationship with safety and trust built over time as the foundation. Together we can explore and make sense of what is causing your distress and develop tools to help you feel stronger and more comfortable with yourself and others. My goal is for you to experience more joy and a better quality of life.
If you have been suffering with feelings of anxiousness, depression, and/or experience negative thoughts that lead to distress, I would like to help . It takes courage to start therapy and share thoughts and feelings that you rarely give words to. The most important aspect of therapeutic work is the therapist client relationship with safety and trust built over time as the foundation. Together we can explore and make sense of what is causing your distress and develop tools to help you feel stronger and more comfortable with yourself and others. My goal is for you to experience more joy and a better quality of life.
(605) 863-9489 View (605) 863-9489
Photo of Pediatric Counseling and Consultation, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Pediatric Counseling and Consultation, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-MH, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking counseling for your child or adolescent can seem overwhelming. Some things are difficult to talk about. I am interested in listening to your child and family carefully and attentively. I will take the time during the first appointment to gain the information to help us determine the best method of therapy (or coaching) together. I am grateful to have received excellent training and experience, and am committed to offering the most appropriate counseling for best results. Whether it is treatment for depression, anxiety, behavior problems, social problems, grief, family conflict or something else, you are not alone.
Seeking counseling for your child or adolescent can seem overwhelming. Some things are difficult to talk about. I am interested in listening to your child and family carefully and attentively. I will take the time during the first appointment to gain the information to help us determine the best method of therapy (or coaching) together. I am grateful to have received excellent training and experience, and am committed to offering the most appropriate counseling for best results. Whether it is treatment for depression, anxiety, behavior problems, social problems, grief, family conflict or something else, you are not alone.
(605) 646-7283 View (605) 646-7283
Photo of Dr. Lena Abourezk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Dr. Lena Abourezk
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-MH, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57702  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” Carl Rogers My personal philosophy of counseling is to be a guide or facilitator of each client’s journey of self-exploration, self-understanding, and self-awareness. I believe the client is the expert in their own life story and can successfully solve problems, change, meet challenges, and heal with the support from counseling. I believe that every client is unique in their situations and in the issues brought to counseling.
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” Carl Rogers My personal philosophy of counseling is to be a guide or facilitator of each client’s journey of self-exploration, self-understanding, and self-awareness. I believe the client is the expert in their own life story and can successfully solve problems, change, meet challenges, and heal with the support from counseling. I believe that every client is unique in their situations and in the issues brought to counseling.
(605) 609-2278 View (605) 609-2278
Photo of Gaylen Bendewald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Gaylen Bendewald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57702
People ask me how I am able to listen to people's problems all day without going crazy and getting depressed myself. The fact is, if that was all that there was to it -listening to people's problems - I probably would go crazy. The great joy in my work, and the satisfaction, is in seeing people get better. This desire keeps me on the learners edge, and it is my passion. I am a capable guide who will respect your individuality and choices along the way while providing you a sureness of foot that only experience can provide.
People ask me how I am able to listen to people's problems all day without going crazy and getting depressed myself. The fact is, if that was all that there was to it -listening to people's problems - I probably would go crazy. The great joy in my work, and the satisfaction, is in seeing people get better. This desire keeps me on the learners edge, and it is my passion. I am a capable guide who will respect your individuality and choices along the way while providing you a sureness of foot that only experience can provide.
(605) 956-4114 View (605) 956-4114
Photo of Julia Grimshaw, LPC Intern in Rapid City, SD
Julia Grimshaw
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57701
I am trained extensively in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Trust-Based Relational Interventions. My therapeutic approach centers around the client, emphasizing empathy and active listening. I am currently earning an MA in Social Work through Boston University. I have worked with many different populations and backgrounds, from children to the elderly. I have extensive research and experience in trauma and Native American mental health, and I am passionate about making healthcare accessible for all.
I am trained extensively in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Trust-Based Relational Interventions. My therapeutic approach centers around the client, emphasizing empathy and active listening. I am currently earning an MA in Social Work through Boston University. I have worked with many different populations and backgrounds, from children to the elderly. I have extensive research and experience in trauma and Native American mental health, and I am passionate about making healthcare accessible for all.
(605) 640-5563 x1010 View (605) 640-5563 x1010
Photo of Stephanie Beard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Stephanie Beard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57702
Waitlist for new clients
Stephanie is a trauma and AASECT-certified sex therapist who works primarily with teens and adults. They have been formally trained in TF-CBT, sex therapy and expressive art therapy. They are passionate about survivors of sexual assault reclaiming their passion and sexuality, as well as teens finding their voice. She is a board member of TPAN and prides herself on being a fierce advocate for the LGBTQIA2S+ community. They have been asked to speak all over the US as well as internationally on many different issues.
Stephanie is a trauma and AASECT-certified sex therapist who works primarily with teens and adults. They have been formally trained in TF-CBT, sex therapy and expressive art therapy. They are passionate about survivors of sexual assault reclaiming their passion and sexuality, as well as teens finding their voice. She is a board member of TPAN and prides herself on being a fierce advocate for the LGBTQIA2S+ community. They have been asked to speak all over the US as well as internationally on many different issues.
(605) 453-4634 View (605) 453-4634
Photo of Melissa Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Melissa Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
Offering Telehealth Services in IA and In Person and Telehealth services in SD. Discover Healing and Hope. Are you or a loved one struggling with the weight of past trauma, anxiety, or emotional distress? It's time to take that courageous step towards healing and liberation. Meet Melissa Smith, your trusted partner on the path to recovery and resilience. Melissa partners with clients to create a safe space to process past trauma, discuss life struggles in an open and non-judgmental environment, and to offer hope in the journey of healing.
Offering Telehealth Services in IA and In Person and Telehealth services in SD. Discover Healing and Hope. Are you or a loved one struggling with the weight of past trauma, anxiety, or emotional distress? It's time to take that courageous step towards healing and liberation. Meet Melissa Smith, your trusted partner on the path to recovery and resilience. Melissa partners with clients to create a safe space to process past trauma, discuss life struggles in an open and non-judgmental environment, and to offer hope in the journey of healing.
(605) 674-7663 View (605) 674-7663
Photo of Emily A Hamling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rapid City, SD
Emily A Hamling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702
“To build the life you desire and deserve to live”. This is my purpose in the counseling process as we partner to explore life and what it could be. As we partner together on your journey in life, I commit to meeting you were you are at while providing a space that is nonjudgmental, genuine, and balanced in acceptance and change. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing are my primary treatment modalities while also integrating different techniques based on your individual needs.
“To build the life you desire and deserve to live”. This is my purpose in the counseling process as we partner to explore life and what it could be. As we partner together on your journey in life, I commit to meeting you were you are at while providing a space that is nonjudgmental, genuine, and balanced in acceptance and change. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing are my primary treatment modalities while also integrating different techniques based on your individual needs.
(605) 574-5418 View (605) 574-5418
Photo of Becca Dravland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Becca Dravland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
I am licensed in South Dakota with over 15 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Most of my experience is working with teens and adolescents but I am open to working with adult women as well.
I am licensed in South Dakota with over 15 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Most of my experience is working with teens and adolescents but I am open to working with adult women as well.
(605) 309-4950 View (605) 309-4950
Photo of Dave Jetson, Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Dave Jetson
Counselor, LCP-MH, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
Your internal dissatisfaction, emptiness, anxiety, depression and loneliness are the main motivators for counseling. It could be associated with relationships, work, grief, addictions, trauma, abuse or not being heard. These patterns develop when you deny your emotional truth. When you connect with your emotional truth, you are always loving, kind and respectful to yourself, others, to things of importance and God. When you connect with your emotional truth, life becomes more enjoyable. Reasons for living, loving and exploring seem possible again. The journey and many new possibilities begins here.
Your internal dissatisfaction, emptiness, anxiety, depression and loneliness are the main motivators for counseling. It could be associated with relationships, work, grief, addictions, trauma, abuse or not being heard. These patterns develop when you deny your emotional truth. When you connect with your emotional truth, you are always loving, kind and respectful to yourself, others, to things of importance and God. When you connect with your emotional truth, life becomes more enjoyable. Reasons for living, loving and exploring seem possible again. The journey and many new possibilities begins here.
(605) 937-7636 View (605) 937-7636
Photo of Casey H Peterson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rapid City, SD
Casey H Peterson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701  (Online Only)
I have worked with all age groups with diverse backgrounds, though I specialize in culturally-centered treatment for fellow Indigenous peoples. My personal studies include extensive work on grief, depression, and anxiety through an existential lens. As such, my ideal client is one who has such presenting issues and who requires support from someone who has experienced, been treated for, and wishes to get treatment from a counselor who has a deep personal understanding of shared issues.
I have worked with all age groups with diverse backgrounds, though I specialize in culturally-centered treatment for fellow Indigenous peoples. My personal studies include extensive work on grief, depression, and anxiety through an existential lens. As such, my ideal client is one who has such presenting issues and who requires support from someone who has experienced, been treated for, and wishes to get treatment from a counselor who has a deep personal understanding of shared issues.
(605) 667-4052 View (605) 667-4052
Photo of Nikki Gorman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Nikki Gorman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57703  (Online Only)
Empathetic therapist offering compassion and healing; helping to build resilience through skill building, trauma work, and self-discovery. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore and process behaviors, thoughts, and feelings that can lead to isolation, anger, relationship strain, anxiety, panic, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. With a strengths-based approach, empowering clients to reclaim a sense of control and restore self-confidence. Specializing in trauma, religious trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, sexual health, postpartum, LGBTQIA+ support, EMDR, CBT, and DBT trained.
Empathetic therapist offering compassion and healing; helping to build resilience through skill building, trauma work, and self-discovery. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore and process behaviors, thoughts, and feelings that can lead to isolation, anger, relationship strain, anxiety, panic, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. With a strengths-based approach, empowering clients to reclaim a sense of control and restore self-confidence. Specializing in trauma, religious trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, sexual health, postpartum, LGBTQIA+ support, EMDR, CBT, and DBT trained.
(605) 250-7340 View (605) 250-7340
Photo of Knuppe Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Knuppe Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PIP, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57702
Not accepting new clients
I have worked with all ages, as well as individuals, couples and families with a variety of challenges. I have specialty training in family therapy, helping families dealing with challenging behaviors and communication. I am trauma focused, cognitive behavioral therapy trained. I am also EMDR trained. I have facilitated group therapy for parenting and will be doing more groups on other issues. I am solution focused and offer unconditional, positive regard for all. This is an LGBTQ+ safe space.
I have worked with all ages, as well as individuals, couples and families with a variety of challenges. I have specialty training in family therapy, helping families dealing with challenging behaviors and communication. I am trauma focused, cognitive behavioral therapy trained. I am also EMDR trained. I have facilitated group therapy for parenting and will be doing more groups on other issues. I am solution focused and offer unconditional, positive regard for all. This is an LGBTQ+ safe space.
(605) 413-4219 View (605) 413-4219
Photo of Red Horse Healing , Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Red Horse Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57703
As we engage in equine therapy we witness the incredible bond between horses and humans, crating a safe and transformative space for growth and healing. The wisdom and intuitive nature of horses guide us on a journey of self -discovery, resilience, and emotional well being. Whether it is building trust, finding peace, or developing valuable life skills equine therapy offers a unique and profound path towards growth.
As we engage in equine therapy we witness the incredible bond between horses and humans, crating a safe and transformative space for growth and healing. The wisdom and intuitive nature of horses guide us on a journey of self -discovery, resilience, and emotional well being. Whether it is building trust, finding peace, or developing valuable life skills equine therapy offers a unique and profound path towards growth.
(605) 220-5413 View (605) 220-5413
Photo of Chelsey Groseclose, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Chelsey Groseclose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57701  (Online Only)
First of all, I am so glad you are here. Settle in, take off your proverbial shoes, & make yourself comfortable. I'll help you unlock potential and reclaim joy in your life again. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgemental, & empathetic space to foster growth. Therapy is a co-created relationship, team effort & requires honest connection. A part of my quest to support you lies in cultivating a place for you to explore concerns honestly with humor, creativity, compassion & allow intimate emotions to emerge with safety. I enjoy working with young adults 18+, the LGBTQIA+ community & relationship concerns.
First of all, I am so glad you are here. Settle in, take off your proverbial shoes, & make yourself comfortable. I'll help you unlock potential and reclaim joy in your life again. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgemental, & empathetic space to foster growth. Therapy is a co-created relationship, team effort & requires honest connection. A part of my quest to support you lies in cultivating a place for you to explore concerns honestly with humor, creativity, compassion & allow intimate emotions to emerge with safety. I enjoy working with young adults 18+, the LGBTQIA+ community & relationship concerns.
(605) 667-5583 View (605) 667-5583
Photo of Jeni Rae Peters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Jeni Rae Peters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
Are you a helper? A parent? A goodhearted kid with trauma? A medical professional? A teacher? Social worker? First responder? An activist? Family of or a Service member?  Are you tired?  Do you want the world to be better? Me too! My name is Jeni Rae Peters, and I specialize in help for the helper.
Are you a helper? A parent? A goodhearted kid with trauma? A medical professional? A teacher? Social worker? First responder? An activist? Family of or a Service member?  Are you tired?  Do you want the world to be better? Me too! My name is Jeni Rae Peters, and I specialize in help for the helper.
(605) 702-6022 View (605) 702-6022
Photo of Resa Combs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Resa Combs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW-PIP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
Waitlist for new clients
The cornerstone of successful therapy is the relationship developed between client and therapist. I offer a non-judgmental environment in which you will be heard and respected. I tailor my approach to the unique needs and personality of each client. Together we will identify and develop your specific goals and choose which therapeutic approach will be the most comfortable and effective.
The cornerstone of successful therapy is the relationship developed between client and therapist. I offer a non-judgmental environment in which you will be heard and respected. I tailor my approach to the unique needs and personality of each client. Together we will identify and develop your specific goals and choose which therapeutic approach will be the most comfortable and effective.
(605) 519-5223 View (605) 519-5223
Photo of Isaacs Behavioral Health LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Isaacs Behavioral Health LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, LAC, QMHP, MEd, MSW
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702
I help clients recognize their strengths, regain confidence, find their voice again, create competency and reconstruct their inner map of the world. Trauma, (PTSD), Depression and Anxiety are tied together. They affect an individual's moods, thoughts, ability to change, pattern of thinking, coping mechanisms, fears, safety, calm, self-esteem, and confidence. I help my clients, "help themselves," by using a blend of modalities, healthy models, and professional experience, to untangle and compartmentalize their issues. My clients have an opportunity to learn proven, healthy coping mechanisms and healthy behaviors to self-regulate,
I help clients recognize their strengths, regain confidence, find their voice again, create competency and reconstruct their inner map of the world. Trauma, (PTSD), Depression and Anxiety are tied together. They affect an individual's moods, thoughts, ability to change, pattern of thinking, coping mechanisms, fears, safety, calm, self-esteem, and confidence. I help my clients, "help themselves," by using a blend of modalities, healthy models, and professional experience, to untangle and compartmentalize their issues. My clients have an opportunity to learn proven, healthy coping mechanisms and healthy behaviors to self-regulate,
(605) 250-2060 View (605) 250-2060

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Rapid City, SD

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Rapid City, SD who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
79% Self Esteem
78% Stress
74% Coping Skills
72% Relationship Issues
72% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% BlueCross and BlueShield
68% Wellmark BCBS
60% Avera Health Plans

How Therapists in Rapid City, SD see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Rapid City?

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.