Therapists in Edmonds, WA

Photo of Karen L Kirsch, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Karen L Kirsch
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
People look at you and think you have it all put together, but inside you are falling apart. Feeling like food or your appearance is the only thing you can control in your life is frightening, especially when you start feeling like you're not even really in control of that. The loneliness that can come with that is devastating. You're anxious, uncomfortable, lonely, and miserable. You're feeling out of control with food: bingeing, purging, restricting, counting, weighing.... It's maddening. You're ashamed and afraid of what anyone might think if they found out. You put on the mask and pretend you're fine.
People look at you and think you have it all put together, but inside you are falling apart. Feeling like food or your appearance is the only thing you can control in your life is frightening, especially when you start feeling like you're not even really in control of that. The loneliness that can come with that is devastating. You're anxious, uncomfortable, lonely, and miserable. You're feeling out of control with food: bingeing, purging, restricting, counting, weighing.... It's maddening. You're ashamed and afraid of what anyone might think if they found out. You put on the mask and pretend you're fine.
(206) 569-6968 View (206) 569-6968
Photo of Eric Gordon Huffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Eric Gordon Huffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Not accepting new clients
For 20+ years I have been providing individual psychotherapy. You might be thinking about therapy because you have a sense that something is wrong or something hurts. Sometimes all you know is you have not felt happy for a long time. Perhaps you are experiencing confusion about a relationship or are having anxiety or depression. You have Bipolar Disorder or ADHD and want help beyond medications. Perhaps you are going through a transition such as divorce. You may find yourself up against the "same old problems" at work or home. You may be trying to manage trauma. I can help.
For 20+ years I have been providing individual psychotherapy. You might be thinking about therapy because you have a sense that something is wrong or something hurts. Sometimes all you know is you have not felt happy for a long time. Perhaps you are experiencing confusion about a relationship or are having anxiety or depression. You have Bipolar Disorder or ADHD and want help beyond medications. Perhaps you are going through a transition such as divorce. You may find yourself up against the "same old problems" at work or home. You may be trying to manage trauma. I can help.
(425) 678-2270 View (425) 678-2270
Photo of Yurushka Martin, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Yurushka Martin
Counselor, MA, LMCHA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
The last few years has brought on a large amount of change. Change that may have caused you to feel isolated, anxious or even scared. The loss of control has left many of us yearning to hug friends and/or family for comfort. My hope is to establish a safe, judgment free environment for you to explore the grief and anxiety you may feel. It is in these contexts that we can begin to discover new levels of honesty, awareness, and hopefully self-compassion and a greater sense of alignment with our new realities. I take the role of active listener, reflecting back to you patterns or themes that I notice in the stories or experiences you
The last few years has brought on a large amount of change. Change that may have caused you to feel isolated, anxious or even scared. The loss of control has left many of us yearning to hug friends and/or family for comfort. My hope is to establish a safe, judgment free environment for you to explore the grief and anxiety you may feel. It is in these contexts that we can begin to discover new levels of honesty, awareness, and hopefully self-compassion and a greater sense of alignment with our new realities. I take the role of active listener, reflecting back to you patterns or themes that I notice in the stories or experiences you
(855) 922-4436 View (855) 922-4436
Photo of Lisa Puishis, LICSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Lisa Puishis, LICSW, LMHC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and relational, which means I'm interested in helping you safely explore the ways in which your personal history, from early childhood onward, may still be influencing your emotions, coping patterns and relationships. I'll help you tend to your feelings and memories so that you'll come to know yourself better and develop the capacity for compassionate self-care. Throughout our time together, I'll pay special attention to our therapeutic connection, as I believe our relationship can serve as a rich resource for your authentic recovery and well-being.
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and relational, which means I'm interested in helping you safely explore the ways in which your personal history, from early childhood onward, may still be influencing your emotions, coping patterns and relationships. I'll help you tend to your feelings and memories so that you'll come to know yourself better and develop the capacity for compassionate self-care. Throughout our time together, I'll pay special attention to our therapeutic connection, as I believe our relationship can serve as a rich resource for your authentic recovery and well-being.
(206) 568-4560 View (206) 568-4560
Photo of Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group
Counselor, LPC, CST, MS
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Now Accepting A limited Number of New Clients! Highly Trained Couples Therapist, Board Certified Sex Therapist, Fertility Counselor. Now offering EMDR. I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I am a skilled couples therapist who has trained with master therapists under both the EFT and Gottman traditions.
Now Accepting A limited Number of New Clients! Highly Trained Couples Therapist, Board Certified Sex Therapist, Fertility Counselor. Now offering EMDR. I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I am a skilled couples therapist who has trained with master therapists under both the EFT and Gottman traditions.
(425) 364-6944 View (425) 364-6944
Photo of Heidi Larsson, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Heidi Larsson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Welcome. I offer you an opportunity to feel safe and supported, to get centered and refreshed. I have a wide range of experience and am well trained in treating mood disorders, relationship concerns and trauma.
Welcome. I offer you an opportunity to feel safe and supported, to get centered and refreshed. I have a wide range of experience and am well trained in treating mood disorders, relationship concerns and trauma.
(206) 260-2098 View (206) 260-2098
Photo of Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LMHC, CCST-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Now accepting new clients! It is an honor and a privilege to journey alongside you as we work towards understanding the barriers that are preventing you from meeting your goals. I work to create an authentically safe space where you can explore life's obstacles that are preventing you from meeting your goals. I am here to support you as you journey towards living the life you desire to live.
Now accepting new clients! It is an honor and a privilege to journey alongside you as we work towards understanding the barriers that are preventing you from meeting your goals. I work to create an authentically safe space where you can explore life's obstacles that are preventing you from meeting your goals. I am here to support you as you journey towards living the life you desire to live.
(425) 386-7562 View (425) 386-7562
Photo of Jessica Lewis, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Jessica Lewis
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Waitlist for new clients
You may be in a space and time in your life where you are ready to begin therapy for the first time or maybe you are moving toward it again. Whatever the case may be, you are brave to be caring for yourself by searching for support in this capacity. Collaboratively in therapy we will begin to create a window into seeing the narrative of your story. Navigating your own personal story is a way to begin to transition toward the life you desire and long for.
You may be in a space and time in your life where you are ready to begin therapy for the first time or maybe you are moving toward it again. Whatever the case may be, you are brave to be caring for yourself by searching for support in this capacity. Collaboratively in therapy we will begin to create a window into seeing the narrative of your story. Navigating your own personal story is a way to begin to transition toward the life you desire and long for.
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Photo of Miranda Santisteban, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Edmonds, WA
Miranda Santisteban
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I work with children, teens and parents who are struggling with big emotions, difficult behaviors, and power struggles that leave everyone feeling disconnected and unheard. As a parent, I understand that at the root of things, nothing compares to the love you have for your child. Seeing them struggle can be heartbreaking. Even though nobody knows your child the way you do, it's oftentimes hard to understand what's underneath their emotional outbursts, worries and fears. I support families in decoding their kid's behaviors, repairing emotional connection, and build on natural strengths to make lasting changes.
I work with children, teens and parents who are struggling with big emotions, difficult behaviors, and power struggles that leave everyone feeling disconnected and unheard. As a parent, I understand that at the root of things, nothing compares to the love you have for your child. Seeing them struggle can be heartbreaking. Even though nobody knows your child the way you do, it's oftentimes hard to understand what's underneath their emotional outbursts, worries and fears. I support families in decoding their kid's behaviors, repairing emotional connection, and build on natural strengths to make lasting changes.
(425) 409-5640 View (425) 409-5640
Photo of Brooksi Bottari, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Brooksi Bottari
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CETP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Hi! I am a counselor licensed in Washington state with 15 years of pre and post graduate experience. I am open and believe in unconditional acceptance and non-judgement. I am a good fit for you if you're interested in finding solutions and feeling empowered to heal your past and step into your personal power. I believe we are all capable of leading lives free from the layers of programming and trauma virus that has been downloaded into our system.
Hi! I am a counselor licensed in Washington state with 15 years of pre and post graduate experience. I am open and believe in unconditional acceptance and non-judgement. I am a good fit for you if you're interested in finding solutions and feeling empowered to heal your past and step into your personal power. I believe we are all capable of leading lives free from the layers of programming and trauma virus that has been downloaded into our system.
(425) 409-5068 View (425) 409-5068
Photo of Heritage Counseling Associates, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Heritage Counseling Associates
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
As a psychotherapist and partner with Heritage Counseling Associates, I see clients in Edmonds, Kirkland and Snohomish WA. My undergraduate degree is from Bethel College in St Paul, MN and my graduate work was at Biola University in La Mirada, CA. I have been in practice for 35 years, I've served as Adjunct Professor of Counseling at Puget Sound Christian College, I've published 4 books and I love what I do every day. For more details you can visit my website - rogerhillerstrom.com.
As a psychotherapist and partner with Heritage Counseling Associates, I see clients in Edmonds, Kirkland and Snohomish WA. My undergraduate degree is from Bethel College in St Paul, MN and my graduate work was at Biola University in La Mirada, CA. I have been in practice for 35 years, I've served as Adjunct Professor of Counseling at Puget Sound Christian College, I've published 4 books and I love what I do every day. For more details you can visit my website - rogerhillerstrom.com.
(425) 954-2194 View (425) 954-2194
Photo of Harland Curtis, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Harland Curtis
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
The human need for inclusion, as well as separateness, exists in us all. In my practice with couples, I help partners identify these needs and the words that best express them. Partners can then feel more confidence discussing needs and differences with one another while traversing life’s separate and shared goals. When differences entangle into gridlock patterns, however, couple relationships can suffer conflict, avoidance, and even separation. I help partners step back from these repetitive patterns and find feeling words for their individual frustrations and unmet needs, to feel from the inside rather than project onto the other.
The human need for inclusion, as well as separateness, exists in us all. In my practice with couples, I help partners identify these needs and the words that best express them. Partners can then feel more confidence discussing needs and differences with one another while traversing life’s separate and shared goals. When differences entangle into gridlock patterns, however, couple relationships can suffer conflict, avoidance, and even separation. I help partners step back from these repetitive patterns and find feeling words for their individual frustrations and unmet needs, to feel from the inside rather than project onto the other.
(425) 405-6219 View (425) 405-6219
Photo of Janelle Jensen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Janelle Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Janelle Jensen and I work as a therapist and consultant in the Seattle area. My background includes Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapy, with work experience in adult mental health, aging, memory loss and family caregiver support. If you are an individual or family living with or caring for someone living with dementia or a related condition, I will work with you to provide dementia education, plan for current and future care needs, and offer emotional support to process changing relationships, grief/loss, and stressors related to family caregiving.
Hello! My name is Janelle Jensen and I work as a therapist and consultant in the Seattle area. My background includes Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapy, with work experience in adult mental health, aging, memory loss and family caregiver support. If you are an individual or family living with or caring for someone living with dementia or a related condition, I will work with you to provide dementia education, plan for current and future care needs, and offer emotional support to process changing relationships, grief/loss, and stressors related to family caregiving.
(206) 659-5846 View (206) 659-5846
Photo of Melissa Phares, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Melissa Phares
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Please note: As of April 9, 2024, my practice is full and I'm not currently accepting new clients. I'll update this message as my availability changes. I am a social worker with 15 years of experience helping people create healthy change. I named my practice Many Paths Counseling because I feel there is more than one right way to feel better, find answers, heal from the past, and kindle hope for the future.
Please note: As of April 9, 2024, my practice is full and I'm not currently accepting new clients. I'll update this message as my availability changes. I am a social worker with 15 years of experience helping people create healthy change. I named my practice Many Paths Counseling because I feel there is more than one right way to feel better, find answers, heal from the past, and kindle hope for the future.
(206) 785-1744 View (206) 785-1744
Photo of Leslie Samdahl Therapy, PLLC, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Leslie Samdahl Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Not accepting new clients
If you are taking the step to find a therapist, that most likely means there are aspects of your life that you wish to change. This deeper exploration of what in your life is and isn’t working can feel scary. As your therapist, I will help you ease into this time of self-exploration and self-awareness, providing you with a safe and judgment free space to explore the thoughts, behaviors, and emotions that might impede on personal growth. In my practice, I work with individuals that are struggling with eating disorders, body image, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, perfectionism, and emotion regulation issues.
If you are taking the step to find a therapist, that most likely means there are aspects of your life that you wish to change. This deeper exploration of what in your life is and isn’t working can feel scary. As your therapist, I will help you ease into this time of self-exploration and self-awareness, providing you with a safe and judgment free space to explore the thoughts, behaviors, and emotions that might impede on personal growth. In my practice, I work with individuals that are struggling with eating disorders, body image, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, perfectionism, and emotion regulation issues.
(425) 517-2954 View (425) 517-2954
Photo of Sunbreak Psychological Services - Mark Pilger, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Sunbreak Psychological Services - Mark Pilger
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
I provide psychotherapy and counseling services to adults, adolescents, and couples. In the framework of authentic therapeutic dialogue and connection, I honor the strengths and uniqueness of each client in the context of their life experience, and work to support them in creating the change they seek. My approach is client centered and flexible to best meet the needs of each client and their particular situation while being largely informed by an integration of Gestalt and mindfulness, as well as humanistic and attachment perspectives.
I provide psychotherapy and counseling services to adults, adolescents, and couples. In the framework of authentic therapeutic dialogue and connection, I honor the strengths and uniqueness of each client in the context of their life experience, and work to support them in creating the change they seek. My approach is client centered and flexible to best meet the needs of each client and their particular situation while being largely informed by an integration of Gestalt and mindfulness, as well as humanistic and attachment perspectives.
(425) 403-7760 View (425) 403-7760
Photo of April Sotelo Greninger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
April Sotelo Greninger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCS
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
I have been in this field of psychotherapy for 25 years. I tend to be more pragmatic, excelling in the "Now What?" stage. I am solution-focused and action-oriented providing applicable skills and cognitive understanding. I have worked in two different private practices since my graduation from Seattle Pacific University back in 2006 before I started my own here in Edmonds, WA. So I have gleaned enough experience and confidence to provide you a mental health service you can trust. If you're interested in self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-disciple, I invite you.
I have been in this field of psychotherapy for 25 years. I tend to be more pragmatic, excelling in the "Now What?" stage. I am solution-focused and action-oriented providing applicable skills and cognitive understanding. I have worked in two different private practices since my graduation from Seattle Pacific University back in 2006 before I started my own here in Edmonds, WA. So I have gleaned enough experience and confidence to provide you a mental health service you can trust. If you're interested in self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-disciple, I invite you.
(425) 448-4524 View (425) 448-4524
Photo of Randie A Clark, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Randie A Clark
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 22 years experience working in partnership with adults, and couples. I have extensive experience working with grief & loss, trauma/PTSD, complicated grief, traumatic loss (homicide, suicide, accident), bereaved parents, childhood abuse, women's sexual/domestic abuse issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions and workplace stress injury. Further information is available at randieclark.com.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 22 years experience working in partnership with adults, and couples. I have extensive experience working with grief & loss, trauma/PTSD, complicated grief, traumatic loss (homicide, suicide, accident), bereaved parents, childhood abuse, women's sexual/domestic abuse issues, anxiety, depression, life transitions and workplace stress injury. Further information is available at randieclark.com.
(206) 866-2393 View (206) 866-2393
Photo of De Anna C Dudley-Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
De Anna C Dudley-Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
Do you struggle with letting go of past beliefs or pain from trauma? Do you feel disconnected from your heart and body because of past trauma? Do you desire fulfilling, intimate relationships both emotionally and physically? Sexual Trauma and Emotional/Physical Abuse can limit our ability to experience joy, happiness and physical connection with others.. Together we can create a safer place to live inside of you and expand your capacity to be intimate. As a woman to you want to feel connected to your desire again, or perhaps find out explore what feminine aspects you have mean missing in your intimacy?
Do you struggle with letting go of past beliefs or pain from trauma? Do you feel disconnected from your heart and body because of past trauma? Do you desire fulfilling, intimate relationships both emotionally and physically? Sexual Trauma and Emotional/Physical Abuse can limit our ability to experience joy, happiness and physical connection with others.. Together we can create a safer place to live inside of you and expand your capacity to be intimate. As a woman to you want to feel connected to your desire again, or perhaps find out explore what feminine aspects you have mean missing in your intimacy?
(714) 677-8428 View (714) 677-8428
Photo of Nicole Arcieri, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Nicole Arcieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Welcome! As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor I believe everyone has their own story and I am honored that these stories are entrusted to me for processing and healing. In my work, I draw from my education, clinical experience, and personal experience, including my own successes and failures. My goal in the therapy room is to be open, respectful, curious, and to hold you accountable to your healing journey. My therapeutic orientation is holistic and systemic, which means I treat people biologically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually.
Welcome! As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor I believe everyone has their own story and I am honored that these stories are entrusted to me for processing and healing. In my work, I draw from my education, clinical experience, and personal experience, including my own successes and failures. My goal in the therapy room is to be open, respectful, curious, and to hold you accountable to your healing journey. My therapeutic orientation is holistic and systemic, which means I treat people biologically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually.
(425) 559-9689 View (425) 559-9689

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Edmonds, WA

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Edmonds, WA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
67% Grief
67% Life Transitions
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Premera
63% Regence
55% First Choice Health | FCH

How Therapists in Edmonds, WA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Edmonds?

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.