Therapists in Roanoke, VA

Photo of Sarah Phillips, Psychologist in Roanoke, VA
Sarah Phillips
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
Waitlist for new clients
Occasionally feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges is a common experience. However, when feelings, thoughts and behaviors create limitations in life, I believe it is beneficial to explore these patterns. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative and strength-based. I strive to create a safe, warm environment where you feel comfortable exploring difficult topics, while also providing space to challenge you to achieve your goals.
Occasionally feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges is a common experience. However, when feelings, thoughts and behaviors create limitations in life, I believe it is beneficial to explore these patterns. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative and strength-based. I strive to create a safe, warm environment where you feel comfortable exploring difficult topics, while also providing space to challenge you to achieve your goals.
(540) 565-5892 View (540) 565-5892
Photo of Niki Crump, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Niki Crump
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
Not accepting new clients
I believe that people and communities have the power to heal. Therapy can be an important part of that process. As your therapist, I will invite you to radically imagine a world in which you feel the most safe and free. From that imagination, we will develop a roadmap towards your vision based on where you are at this exact moment.
I believe that people and communities have the power to heal. Therapy can be an important part of that process. As your therapist, I will invite you to radically imagine a world in which you feel the most safe and free. From that imagination, we will develop a roadmap towards your vision based on where you are at this exact moment.
(540) 917-5564 View (540) 917-5564
Photo of Marla Lenviel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Roanoke, VA
Marla Lenviel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC, LPC-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
If you are feeling trapped by anxiety and fear or feel like no one understands, I am here for you!
If you are feeling trapped by anxiety and fear or feel like no one understands, I am here for you!
(540) 417-1447 View (540) 417-1447
Photo of Hayley Nasrallah, Pre-Licensed Professional in Roanoke, VA
Hayley Nasrallah
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
At the end of therapy clients often tell me they "feel like themselves again." Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relational conflict may have you feeling alienated from others and yourself. This is an incredibly hard and lonely place to be. I consider it one of life's greatest honors to walk with people through their times of difficulty as they find their way back home to hope.
At the end of therapy clients often tell me they "feel like themselves again." Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relational conflict may have you feeling alienated from others and yourself. This is an incredibly hard and lonely place to be. I consider it one of life's greatest honors to walk with people through their times of difficulty as they find their way back home to hope.
(540) 384-9388 View (540) 384-9388
Photo of Three Valley Wellness LLC, Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Three Valley Wellness LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
Immediate openings for both therapy and neurofeedback! We are a trauma-focused small group of therapists who are ready to do the deeper work in therapy to clean out what gets in your way of having an easier life. Our philosophy is to find the root cause of the problem and work on that instead of staying on the surface. We are ready to go deep. Are you feeling like something is wrong or holding you back, but you don’t know what it is? Are you aware of your past traumas and are ready to work on them? You might be surprised how much trauma is responsible for how we feel about ourselves and how we live our lives.
Immediate openings for both therapy and neurofeedback! We are a trauma-focused small group of therapists who are ready to do the deeper work in therapy to clean out what gets in your way of having an easier life. Our philosophy is to find the root cause of the problem and work on that instead of staying on the surface. We are ready to go deep. Are you feeling like something is wrong or holding you back, but you don’t know what it is? Are you aware of your past traumas and are ready to work on them? You might be surprised how much trauma is responsible for how we feel about ourselves and how we live our lives.
(540) 202-1436 View (540) 202-1436
Photo of Zach Pennington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Zach Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24019
Feeling stuck in life or relationship? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have completed doctoral level coursework and currently hold dual Masters’ Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with individuals who may be struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, and PTSD that negatively impacts personal and occupational life, family, and relationship. For the last ten years, I have built a strong reputation in the community for my ability to make meaningful and transformative connections with others.
Feeling stuck in life or relationship? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have completed doctoral level coursework and currently hold dual Masters’ Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with individuals who may be struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, and PTSD that negatively impacts personal and occupational life, family, and relationship. For the last ten years, I have built a strong reputation in the community for my ability to make meaningful and transformative connections with others.
(540) 390-1780 View (540) 390-1780
Photo of Teresa Lyons in Roanoke, VA
Teresa Lyons
MEd, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
I’ve lived with the challenges faced by those with severe learning disabilities within my own family. This isn’t a business for me. It’s a passion spanning decades of searching for a better answer for struggling learners—the solution - Precision Teaching. Effective learning requires a program customized to your child’s needs with high rates of deliberate practice, expert feedback, and reinforcement guided by ongoing data analysis. It’s breaking complex skills into its core parts to build stronger skills. It’s discovering your child can learn and become a more agile and cognitively fit learner.
I’ve lived with the challenges faced by those with severe learning disabilities within my own family. This isn’t a business for me. It’s a passion spanning decades of searching for a better answer for struggling learners—the solution - Precision Teaching. Effective learning requires a program customized to your child’s needs with high rates of deliberate practice, expert feedback, and reinforcement guided by ongoing data analysis. It’s breaking complex skills into its core parts to build stronger skills. It’s discovering your child can learn and become a more agile and cognitively fit learner.
(540) 264-3561 View (540) 264-3561
Photo of Renae Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Renae Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24014
Life isn't always easy, and when the hard times come, it is nice to have a non-judgmental place to go where you feel heard and are comfortable. My hope is you will come as you are and begin to work through your "hard time," so that you leave feeling empowered, validated, safe, and recognize you are on your journey to healing. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and my trauma-informed background includes working with and treating children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD, oppositional defiance, anxiety, stress, depression, life changes, addiction, and trauma.
Life isn't always easy, and when the hard times come, it is nice to have a non-judgmental place to go where you feel heard and are comfortable. My hope is you will come as you are and begin to work through your "hard time," so that you leave feeling empowered, validated, safe, and recognize you are on your journey to healing. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and my trauma-informed background includes working with and treating children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD, oppositional defiance, anxiety, stress, depression, life changes, addiction, and trauma.
(540) 252-3151 View (540) 252-3151
Photo of Gail Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Gail Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
All people struggle at some point in their lives. Each of us has difficulty managing, especially when life throws us a curve ball – like a diagnosis of chronic illness, failure in school or work, a relationship that blows up or the death of a loved one. Times like these can leave us feeling lost and alone. We may even have thoughts like “I’m a failure” or “I will never get over this”. I understand. And I want you to know that I can help. I can help you feel better, find your joy and live the healthiest life possible.
All people struggle at some point in their lives. Each of us has difficulty managing, especially when life throws us a curve ball – like a diagnosis of chronic illness, failure in school or work, a relationship that blows up or the death of a loved one. Times like these can leave us feeling lost and alone. We may even have thoughts like “I’m a failure” or “I will never get over this”. I understand. And I want you to know that I can help. I can help you feel better, find your joy and live the healthiest life possible.
(540) 905-8569 View (540) 905-8569
Photo of Victor Rivera, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Victor Rivera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
You have the ability to feel better! That is the core principle of my therapeutic approach. My job is to help you maximize your potential and build the skills to improve on your experience. It takes courage to explore your own story, and discussions will be genuine and humanistic. I want you to find hope, and feel free of the burden that life's struggles often bring. I speak both, Spanish and English. I believe the foundation of counseling is empathy and positive client regard, and will always work toward a positive outcome. Counseling is a safe space that is free of judgment, and it is the core of my approach with all clients
You have the ability to feel better! That is the core principle of my therapeutic approach. My job is to help you maximize your potential and build the skills to improve on your experience. It takes courage to explore your own story, and discussions will be genuine and humanistic. I want you to find hope, and feel free of the burden that life's struggles often bring. I speak both, Spanish and English. I believe the foundation of counseling is empathy and positive client regard, and will always work toward a positive outcome. Counseling is a safe space that is free of judgment, and it is the core of my approach with all clients
(540) 584-8332 View (540) 584-8332
Photo of Jennifer Bell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Jennifer Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
I provide individual counseling services for adolescents 16 and older and adults who are experiencing chaos, pain, confusion, or who feel something is absent in their life. I work with you to increase your own self-awareness and utilize your strengths to create the positive growth you desire. I provide support, honesty, compassion, and encouragement as you go through your journey of growth and healing.
I provide individual counseling services for adolescents 16 and older and adults who are experiencing chaos, pain, confusion, or who feel something is absent in their life. I work with you to increase your own self-awareness and utilize your strengths to create the positive growth you desire. I provide support, honesty, compassion, and encouragement as you go through your journey of growth and healing.
(540) 724-0566 View (540) 724-0566
Photo of Dr. Mary Ann S. Callen, Psychologist in Roanoke, VA
Dr. Mary Ann S. Callen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24014
It’s summertime “…and the livin’ is easy” or at least it’s supposed to be. If you are feeling tired, down and even a little lost or if you’re feeling anxious or on edge, it may be time to make a change and learn skills with the help of a licensed psychologist and evidence-based treatments. These are treatments that use the most effective, economic, and available therapeutic interventions and they are cultivated within a healthy therapeutic relationship that blends mutual respect, supportive candor and gentle humor to foster personal healing, health and growth. So, let’s work together and learn to make the livin’ easy again !
It’s summertime “…and the livin’ is easy” or at least it’s supposed to be. If you are feeling tired, down and even a little lost or if you’re feeling anxious or on edge, it may be time to make a change and learn skills with the help of a licensed psychologist and evidence-based treatments. These are treatments that use the most effective, economic, and available therapeutic interventions and they are cultivated within a healthy therapeutic relationship that blends mutual respect, supportive candor and gentle humor to foster personal healing, health and growth. So, let’s work together and learn to make the livin’ easy again !
(540) 632-0847 View (540) 632-0847
Photo of Michele Gunter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Michele Gunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
Living uncomfortably under the weight of anxiety and depression is a shared experience many of us endure, and I'm Michele Gunter, an LCSW based in Virginia, here to guide you towards transformative change. Through the lens of therapy, we can navigate the challenges that keep us from living our fullest lives. As a passionate advocate for mental health, I specialize in offering teletherapy to individuals seeking relief from the burdens of anxiety and depression. My commitment lies in creating a supportive and understanding space where we can explore the roots of your struggles.
Living uncomfortably under the weight of anxiety and depression is a shared experience many of us endure, and I'm Michele Gunter, an LCSW based in Virginia, here to guide you towards transformative change. Through the lens of therapy, we can navigate the challenges that keep us from living our fullest lives. As a passionate advocate for mental health, I specialize in offering teletherapy to individuals seeking relief from the burdens of anxiety and depression. My commitment lies in creating a supportive and understanding space where we can explore the roots of your struggles.
(540) 534-5636 View (540) 534-5636
Photo of Heidi Ann Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Heidi Ann Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
Welcome. You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, family of origin issues and codependency. I have a master's degree in Counseling from West Virginia University and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Additionally, I am a certified Clinical Supervisor and am open to supervising counseling residents as well as licensed professionals.
Welcome. You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, family of origin issues and codependency. I have a master's degree in Counseling from West Virginia University and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Additionally, I am a certified Clinical Supervisor and am open to supervising counseling residents as well as licensed professionals.
(540) 253-1479 View (540) 253-1479
Photo of Tom O'Neill Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Tom O'Neill Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
“Taking refuge” is a phrase in Buddhism that invites a world-weary self to find relief. From the confusion of life’s dramas and the pull to get swept up in them. Taking refuge requires building trustworthiness through a softening that happens over time in relationship. That is one reason psychotherapy is effective: The trustworthiness built by therapist and client allows for a depth of self to be known and expressed. Such encounters in turn build trustworthiness within oneself, for as our capacities enlarge, we enlarge. In finding solace within, we learn to live less fearfully, participate in relationship with authority and ease.
“Taking refuge” is a phrase in Buddhism that invites a world-weary self to find relief. From the confusion of life’s dramas and the pull to get swept up in them. Taking refuge requires building trustworthiness through a softening that happens over time in relationship. That is one reason psychotherapy is effective: The trustworthiness built by therapist and client allows for a depth of self to be known and expressed. Such encounters in turn build trustworthiness within oneself, for as our capacities enlarge, we enlarge. In finding solace within, we learn to live less fearfully, participate in relationship with authority and ease.
(540) 253-1763 View (540) 253-1763
Photo of Sheri Meixner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Sheri Meixner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
I believe the therapeutic process is a powerful tool for clients to grow and become healthier individuals and/or couples. My clinical experience settings include private practice, mental/behavioral health agencies, community college and medical social work services. Areas of experience include crisis work, substance use dependence, depression & anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, chronic illness, autism, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, client centered, utilizing cognitive behavioral, solution focused, insight oriented, trauma informed and motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
I believe the therapeutic process is a powerful tool for clients to grow and become healthier individuals and/or couples. My clinical experience settings include private practice, mental/behavioral health agencies, community college and medical social work services. Areas of experience include crisis work, substance use dependence, depression & anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, chronic illness, autism, and relationship issues. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, client centered, utilizing cognitive behavioral, solution focused, insight oriented, trauma informed and motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
(540) 870-0554 View (540) 870-0554
Photo of Josh Shorter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Josh Shorter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
My passion is driven through the use of self, and fostering an environment that can lead to self-actualization. We often ask ourselves, how can we become better and feel like we have self-worth? Do you find yourself often thinking, how can I take the next step to better my overall emotional health and live a life of purpose and fulfillment? Therapy can lead to a better understanding of our own mental health and reveal underlining causes that are often caused by our own self-disrupting behaviors. I believe that each and every person has the toolbelt they need to overcome their daily struggles, but we often just need some assistance.
My passion is driven through the use of self, and fostering an environment that can lead to self-actualization. We often ask ourselves, how can we become better and feel like we have self-worth? Do you find yourself often thinking, how can I take the next step to better my overall emotional health and live a life of purpose and fulfillment? Therapy can lead to a better understanding of our own mental health and reveal underlining causes that are often caused by our own self-disrupting behaviors. I believe that each and every person has the toolbelt they need to overcome their daily struggles, but we often just need some assistance.
(540) 501-7887 View (540) 501-7887
Photo of Katie Lewis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Katie Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24017
Welcome! It’s an honor for me to provide guidance for those who struggle with their mental health. I find that continuing to improve my practice while remaining humble helps my clients feel they are receiving quality care. It’s one of my top priorities to uphold strong ethical standards so my clients feel safe and comfortable.
Welcome! It’s an honor for me to provide guidance for those who struggle with their mental health. I find that continuing to improve my practice while remaining humble helps my clients feel they are receiving quality care. It’s one of my top priorities to uphold strong ethical standards so my clients feel safe and comfortable.
(540) 251-7728 x1 View (540) 251-7728 x1
Photo of Jordyn Parker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Jordyn Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
Are you struggling with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, trouble sleeping, or fatigue in addition to allergies, brain fog, or digestive issues? Maybe you find yourself overthinking, stuck in the same old thinking patterns, and juggling too many things at once making you feel stuck. Do you feel like your fatigue, digestive issues, and brain fog are preventing you from living fully? You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure, you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to take back control of your whole health and ready to feel confident, stop overthinking, and trust your own decisions!
Are you struggling with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, trouble sleeping, or fatigue in addition to allergies, brain fog, or digestive issues? Maybe you find yourself overthinking, stuck in the same old thinking patterns, and juggling too many things at once making you feel stuck. Do you feel like your fatigue, digestive issues, and brain fog are preventing you from living fully? You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure, you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to take back control of your whole health and ready to feel confident, stop overthinking, and trust your own decisions!
(540) 210-1315 View (540) 210-1315
Photo of Mitzi Albert, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Roanoke, VA
Mitzi Albert
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014  (Online Only)
If you seek a compassionate and dedicated mental health professional to assist you in your journey towards overall well-being and a better quality of life, I am here to help. Offering convenient and confidential virtual therapy, I enjoy working with adults (18+) in VA and MD, facing a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I am trauma-informed and LGBTQ+-affirming. Recognizing the mind-body connection, I utilize a holistic approach, combining traditional therapeutic techniques with mindfulness and various healthy lifestyle choices.
If you seek a compassionate and dedicated mental health professional to assist you in your journey towards overall well-being and a better quality of life, I am here to help. Offering convenient and confidential virtual therapy, I enjoy working with adults (18+) in VA and MD, facing a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I am trauma-informed and LGBTQ+-affirming. Recognizing the mind-body connection, I utilize a holistic approach, combining traditional therapeutic techniques with mindfulness and various healthy lifestyle choices.
(540) 513-5079 View (540) 513-5079

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Roanoke, VA

200+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Roanoke, VA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
71% Stress
69% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Anthem | Elevance
72% Aetna
69% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Roanoke, VA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Roanoke?

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.