Therapists in Mount Pleasant, SC

Photo of Jennifer Fine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Pleasant, SC
Jennifer Fine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
My stance, as with everything in life, is to be present and authentic. I think it can be very easy to listen; however, it is another thing to truly hear what someone is saying. I would like to think that I am a therapist that hones in on what is actually being said – I hear you! I feel that my experiences, personally and professionally, have shaped in me an openness to others. I have developed a deep awareness not only of myself but more importantly to my clients. I feel that most clinicians’ senses are heightened. We are open, and we are ready to start the process of exploration and to help define what makes you unique.
My stance, as with everything in life, is to be present and authentic. I think it can be very easy to listen; however, it is another thing to truly hear what someone is saying. I would like to think that I am a therapist that hones in on what is actually being said – I hear you! I feel that my experiences, personally and professionally, have shaped in me an openness to others. I have developed a deep awareness not only of myself but more importantly to my clients. I feel that most clinicians’ senses are heightened. We are open, and we are ready to start the process of exploration and to help define what makes you unique.
(843) 548-3363 View (843) 548-3363
Photo of Heather Kranz, Psychologist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Heather Kranz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Heather Kranz is a Clinical Psychologist who has trained and worked in a variety of inpatient, outpatient, and college counseling positions. She graduated with a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the PGSP-Stanford Psy. D. Consortium located in Palo Alto, CA. Previously, Heather completed a master's degree at the University of Texas at Austin and a bachelor's degree at The University of California, Irvine. Heather believes in the tenents of psychodynamic psychotherapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy.
Heather Kranz is a Clinical Psychologist who has trained and worked in a variety of inpatient, outpatient, and college counseling positions. She graduated with a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the PGSP-Stanford Psy. D. Consortium located in Palo Alto, CA. Previously, Heather completed a master's degree at the University of Texas at Austin and a bachelor's degree at The University of California, Irvine. Heather believes in the tenents of psychodynamic psychotherapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy.
(843) 604-3191 View (843) 604-3191
Photo of Engage in Life, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Pleasant, SC
Engage in Life, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Are you experiencing difficulties resolving conflicts, fostering intimacy, and communicating in your relationships? “Family dysfunction rolls down from generation to generation, like a fire in the woods, taking down everything in its path until one person in one generation has the courage to turn and face the flames” – Terry Real The family we grew up in is the place where we learned how to communicate, how to feel, and how to get our needs met. I help adults identify and work through family of origin issues to overcome fears, build healthy relationships, and achieve a sense of peace.
Are you experiencing difficulties resolving conflicts, fostering intimacy, and communicating in your relationships? “Family dysfunction rolls down from generation to generation, like a fire in the woods, taking down everything in its path until one person in one generation has the courage to turn and face the flames” – Terry Real The family we grew up in is the place where we learned how to communicate, how to feel, and how to get our needs met. I help adults identify and work through family of origin issues to overcome fears, build healthy relationships, and achieve a sense of peace.
(843) 279-8447 View (843) 279-8447
Photo of Dr. Michele Akers-Woody, Psychologist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Dr. Michele Akers-Woody
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
LIFE IS STRESSFUL! Have the demands of life simply become too overwhelming? Have there been times when you wondered why you feel the way you do and wondered if you were crazy? Have you asked yourself, "Why does life have to be so hard?" If so, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Whether you feel stressed-out, anxious, depressed or are simply not coping as effectively in life as you would like, THERE IS HOPE! I am here to help guide, coach, and support you through a journey of empowerment where you will gain insight and knowledge, learn ways of healthy coping, make changes, and achieve overall well-being and wellness to live life to its fullest!
LIFE IS STRESSFUL! Have the demands of life simply become too overwhelming? Have there been times when you wondered why you feel the way you do and wondered if you were crazy? Have you asked yourself, "Why does life have to be so hard?" If so, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Whether you feel stressed-out, anxious, depressed or are simply not coping as effectively in life as you would like, THERE IS HOPE! I am here to help guide, coach, and support you through a journey of empowerment where you will gain insight and knowledge, learn ways of healthy coping, make changes, and achieve overall well-being and wellness to live life to its fullest!
(843) 834-1819 View (843) 834-1819
Photo of Krista Tilly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Krista Tilly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Health Coach, I believe that every person has the innate ability to find peace. I enjoy working with people of all ages going through transition and hardship. Whether you have a child struggling with behavior issues or are having trouble communicating with your spouse/loved ones, I hope to help you find the courage to press through and to discover that our greatest breakthroughs can be found in what feel like our weakest moments. I want to help you explore the beliefs that are holding you back and help you find peace that lasts.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Health Coach, I believe that every person has the innate ability to find peace. I enjoy working with people of all ages going through transition and hardship. Whether you have a child struggling with behavior issues or are having trouble communicating with your spouse/loved ones, I hope to help you find the courage to press through and to discover that our greatest breakthroughs can be found in what feel like our weakest moments. I want to help you explore the beliefs that are holding you back and help you find peace that lasts.
(843) 305-3466 View (843) 305-3466
Photo of Samantha Maierle Abrams, Psychologist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Samantha Maierle Abrams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466  (Online Only)
FEMALE TELEHEALTH CLIENTS ONLY! My expertise is in applying evidence-based interventions in a compassionate and non-judgmental context, with respect for each individual's unique circumstances. Together, we will bring to light the strengths that have gotten you through your difficult times, as well as the symptoms or problems you wish to change. I provide both a supportive ear and expert knowledge to help you maintain emotional, physical, relational and spiritual balance as you negotiate complex life changes. I presently work only with women.
FEMALE TELEHEALTH CLIENTS ONLY! My expertise is in applying evidence-based interventions in a compassionate and non-judgmental context, with respect for each individual's unique circumstances. Together, we will bring to light the strengths that have gotten you through your difficult times, as well as the symptoms or problems you wish to change. I provide both a supportive ear and expert knowledge to help you maintain emotional, physical, relational and spiritual balance as you negotiate complex life changes. I presently work only with women.
(843) 418-0713 View (843) 418-0713
Photo of Beth Keyserling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Beth Keyserling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I work with you in a supportive role to identify and change negative or self-defeating behavior patterns. I help you understand why you feel the way you do and suggest new ways to manage stress, relationship problems and low self-esteem. I believe accepting and loving ourselves is a key to having happier relationships and a happier life. We work as a team to help you find new solutions to problems.
I work with you in a supportive role to identify and change negative or self-defeating behavior patterns. I help you understand why you feel the way you do and suggest new ways to manage stress, relationship problems and low self-esteem. I believe accepting and loving ourselves is a key to having happier relationships and a happier life. We work as a team to help you find new solutions to problems.
(843) 638-3302 View (843) 638-3302
Photo of Michael Jayne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Pleasant, SC
Michael Jayne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Are you experiencing significant depression and/or anxiety that has you feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or withdrawn from others or from life? Both depression and anxiety can easily feel debilitating at times. However, with caring support, learning new coping skills and challenging negative thoughts, we can gain much needed relief and a sense of finding ourselves again. Are you currently in a relationship where communication with loved ones has become unproductive, challenging or made you feel misunderstood? We are not born knowing how to effectively communicate.
Are you experiencing significant depression and/or anxiety that has you feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or withdrawn from others or from life? Both depression and anxiety can easily feel debilitating at times. However, with caring support, learning new coping skills and challenging negative thoughts, we can gain much needed relief and a sense of finding ourselves again. Are you currently in a relationship where communication with loved ones has become unproductive, challenging or made you feel misunderstood? We are not born knowing how to effectively communicate.
(843) 896-2829 View (843) 896-2829
Photo of Erica Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Erica Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
I have been working with adults experiencing various mental health concerns for over 10 years. I currently focus on treating adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress/burnout, life transitions, and interpersonal conflict.
I have been working with adults experiencing various mental health concerns for over 10 years. I currently focus on treating adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress/burnout, life transitions, and interpersonal conflict.
(843) 284-3527 View (843) 284-3527
Photo of Kathleen Mueller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Pleasant, SC
Kathleen Mueller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
My practice provides a conveniently located, safe and caring place for clients to work through life's struggles. Having experience as a personal trainer and a strong cognitive-behavioral therapy background, I am passionate about how physical health impacts a person's mental well-being and strive to integrate both in order to help clients achieve goals they have set to improve the quality of their lives. The therapy process is a collaborative experience between an individual and myself that involves identifying unhelpful feelings and thoughts in order to develop positive coping strategies and utilize current strengths.
My practice provides a conveniently located, safe and caring place for clients to work through life's struggles. Having experience as a personal trainer and a strong cognitive-behavioral therapy background, I am passionate about how physical health impacts a person's mental well-being and strive to integrate both in order to help clients achieve goals they have set to improve the quality of their lives. The therapy process is a collaborative experience between an individual and myself that involves identifying unhelpful feelings and thoughts in order to develop positive coping strategies and utilize current strengths.
(843) 203-8332 View (843) 203-8332
Photo of Greg Rothschild - River Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Mount Pleasant, SC
Greg Rothschild - River Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Now Accepting New In-Person Appointments! Hello and welcome to my page. Embarking on a therapeutic journey takes courage, and I commend you for considering it. Life can be difficult and finding a therapist you can trust can often be helpful. I have a passion for helping individuals like you navigate those challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, I tailor my therapeutic techniques to suit your individual needs.
Now Accepting New In-Person Appointments! Hello and welcome to my page. Embarking on a therapeutic journey takes courage, and I commend you for considering it. Life can be difficult and finding a therapist you can trust can often be helpful. I have a passion for helping individuals like you navigate those challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, I tailor my therapeutic techniques to suit your individual needs.
(843) 612-6894 View (843) 612-6894
Photo of Cherryl Wardwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Pleasant, SC
Cherryl Wardwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Cherryl N. Wardwell is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Arkansas who has been practicing since 1988. As people, throughout our lives we may encounter challenges such as low self-esteem, loss, struggles in our families, depression, anxiety, coping with trauma and/or abuse, anger, worry, stress management, and even communicating our thoughts and feelings to those important in our lives. At times we need an outside perspective, support, empowerment, and maybe just someone to listen to us, when life seems hard or complicated. Cherryl's counseling style is warm, friendly, honest, and, above all, genuine.
Cherryl N. Wardwell is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Arkansas who has been practicing since 1988. As people, throughout our lives we may encounter challenges such as low self-esteem, loss, struggles in our families, depression, anxiety, coping with trauma and/or abuse, anger, worry, stress management, and even communicating our thoughts and feelings to those important in our lives. At times we need an outside perspective, support, empowerment, and maybe just someone to listen to us, when life seems hard or complicated. Cherryl's counseling style is warm, friendly, honest, and, above all, genuine.
(854) 946-5460 View (854) 946-5460
Photo of Mary Mcinerny, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Pleasant, SC
Mary Mcinerny
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Resiliency is defined as the ability to bounce back from adversity. However, many times persons go through life and its crisis and never return to an original form, but live in a new normal . Resiliency can play a big role in the quality of life after a crisis. What is a crisis? That term crisis varies from person to person depending upon their perception of challenges and crisis associated with life. Life presents with constant change, whether small and large. sometimes the changes may be too challenging for a person. Together with the client I help develop coping strategies that we identify and develop to work for the client.
Resiliency is defined as the ability to bounce back from adversity. However, many times persons go through life and its crisis and never return to an original form, but live in a new normal . Resiliency can play a big role in the quality of life after a crisis. What is a crisis? That term crisis varies from person to person depending upon their perception of challenges and crisis associated with life. Life presents with constant change, whether small and large. sometimes the changes may be too challenging for a person. Together with the client I help develop coping strategies that we identify and develop to work for the client.
(843) 887-1169 View (843) 887-1169
Photo of Lori Hogeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Lori Hogeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
Lori’s goals in treatment are to help individuals learn healthy and adaptive coping strategies and skills. Lori is proficient in the adherent protocol of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and has received intensive training in DBT through Behavioral Tech (the original program created by Marsha Linehan). She has also completed training in Prolonged Exposure-DBT for trauma (DBT-PE) for clients who desire to manage intense emotions over past traumas.
Lori’s goals in treatment are to help individuals learn healthy and adaptive coping strategies and skills. Lori is proficient in the adherent protocol of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and has received intensive training in DBT through Behavioral Tech (the original program created by Marsha Linehan). She has also completed training in Prolonged Exposure-DBT for trauma (DBT-PE) for clients who desire to manage intense emotions over past traumas.
(678) 506-7524 View (678) 506-7524
Photo of Kinsey Cameron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Kinsey Cameron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Hi, my name is Kinsey! I firmly believe that every person is doing the very best they can at any given moment with the knowledge and skills they have at the time, and until we know better, we can’t expect ourselves to do better. Thus, it is my belief that we are all capable of learning and implementing healthier, more effective ways of doing things, and I want to be there to guide you through the process of becoming the very best version of yourself. Throughout the years I have worked in multiple different treatment settings which has offered me a great deal of experience in the clinical field.
Hi, my name is Kinsey! I firmly believe that every person is doing the very best they can at any given moment with the knowledge and skills they have at the time, and until we know better, we can’t expect ourselves to do better. Thus, it is my belief that we are all capable of learning and implementing healthier, more effective ways of doing things, and I want to be there to guide you through the process of becoming the very best version of yourself. Throughout the years I have worked in multiple different treatment settings which has offered me a great deal of experience in the clinical field.
(843) 483-6887 View (843) 483-6887
Photo of Laura E. Clayton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Pleasant, SC
Laura E. Clayton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466  (Online Only)
Reaching out for help is the first (and often the hardest) step. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Your courage and curiosity about how things may be different for you are enough to begin! Be PROUD of yourself for taking this step! I believe in a collaborative approach that includes cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, strengths-based skills, brain science, and non-judgment. We will work together to determine your therapeutic goals and the steps to take to reach those goals.
Reaching out for help is the first (and often the hardest) step. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Your courage and curiosity about how things may be different for you are enough to begin! Be PROUD of yourself for taking this step! I believe in a collaborative approach that includes cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, strengths-based skills, brain science, and non-judgment. We will work together to determine your therapeutic goals and the steps to take to reach those goals.
(803) 882-3268 View (803) 882-3268
Photo of Audrey Godfrey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Pleasant, SC
Audrey Godfrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I am accepting new clients! Are you feeling stressed, stuck, insecure, or overwhelmed? Let's talk! I believe in my clients' ability to learn, grow, and make “mind-style” changes that lead to emotional fitness, mental flexibility, and transformational healing. Whether you are seeking counseling for discouraging patterns of negative thoughts or behavior, childhood issues, relational discord, or trauma, my goal is to help you identify and overcome limiting beliefs so you can feel more authentic, empowered, and self-confident.
I am accepting new clients! Are you feeling stressed, stuck, insecure, or overwhelmed? Let's talk! I believe in my clients' ability to learn, grow, and make “mind-style” changes that lead to emotional fitness, mental flexibility, and transformational healing. Whether you are seeking counseling for discouraging patterns of negative thoughts or behavior, childhood issues, relational discord, or trauma, my goal is to help you identify and overcome limiting beliefs so you can feel more authentic, empowered, and self-confident.
(843) 892-5851 View (843) 892-5851
Photo of Xavier Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Xavier Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466  (Online Only)
Mr. Xavier Bailey is a LISW-CP in the state of South Carolina with over eight years of experience providing clinical therapeutic care services to pre-teens, teens, young adults, couples, families, and elderly in a multitude of healthcare and therapeutic environments.
Mr. Xavier Bailey is a LISW-CP in the state of South Carolina with over eight years of experience providing clinical therapeutic care services to pre-teens, teens, young adults, couples, families, and elderly in a multitude of healthcare and therapeutic environments.
(843) 603-7249 View (843) 603-7249
Photo of Michelle Kaigler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mount Pleasant, SC
Michelle Kaigler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466  (Online Only)
Working with children has given me insight into how much children struggle in silence. Often they need a space to be heard, to adjust to the changes in their lives and allowed to try and fail things with encouragement. My goals is become a bridge for children to connect back with their parents, caregivers, and educators in a way that is a win/win for both.
Working with children has given me insight into how much children struggle in silence. Often they need a space to be heard, to adjust to the changes in their lives and allowed to try and fail things with encouragement. My goals is become a bridge for children to connect back with their parents, caregivers, and educators in a way that is a win/win for both.
(843) 630-6724 View (843) 630-6724
Photo of Caroline Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Mount Pleasant, SC
Caroline Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I help women and couples find clarity and calm during life's challenging seasons. I practice an approach to therapy that considers all aspects of the human experience. I work with clients to navigate the ebbs and flows of life in a way that celebrates individuality and encourages growth. In our work together, clients develop the tools needed to experience the range of human emotions with a kind and accepting perspective.
I help women and couples find clarity and calm during life's challenging seasons. I practice an approach to therapy that considers all aspects of the human experience. I work with clients to navigate the ebbs and flows of life in a way that celebrates individuality and encourages growth. In our work together, clients develop the tools needed to experience the range of human emotions with a kind and accepting perspective.
(843) 310-5404 View (843) 310-5404

See more therapy options for Mount Pleasant

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mount Pleasant, SC

400+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Mount Pleasant, SC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
66% Stress
65% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% BlueCross and BlueShield
54% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
53% Aetna

How Therapists in Mount Pleasant, SC see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Mount Pleasant?

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.