Therapists in Lakewood, OH

Photo of Carla J Gilenko, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Carla J Gilenko
Counselor, PCC-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
I believe in the inherent wisdom that lies within each of us. Sometimes sadness, pain, anger, anxiety and discomfort can block us from that wisdom and we find ourselves stuck in our lives. My goal in helping my clients is to provide a safe environment within which we can work together to remove the blocks to joy, love, peace and happiness, furthering personal growth and healing. I truly believe that the answers we need lie within each of us. Part of my job is to help you sift through the layers to find the answer that is right for you.
I believe in the inherent wisdom that lies within each of us. Sometimes sadness, pain, anger, anxiety and discomfort can block us from that wisdom and we find ourselves stuck in our lives. My goal in helping my clients is to provide a safe environment within which we can work together to remove the blocks to joy, love, peace and happiness, furthering personal growth and healing. I truly believe that the answers we need lie within each of us. Part of my job is to help you sift through the layers to find the answer that is right for you.
(216) 415-6378 View (216) 415-6378
Photo of Veronica Fabec, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Veronica Fabec
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
We think we listen, but very rarely do we listen with real understanding, true empathy. Yet, listening of this very special kind, is one of the most potent forces for change that I know (Carl Rogers). Veronica is here to listen. She passionately focuses on creating a safe place for people to feel comfortable making healthy changes in their lives. As a native Spanish speaker, she is an empathic, open-minded helper focused on truly hearing English- or Spanish-speaking clients. Specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression, Veronica provides catered treatment, primarily channeled through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
We think we listen, but very rarely do we listen with real understanding, true empathy. Yet, listening of this very special kind, is one of the most potent forces for change that I know (Carl Rogers). Veronica is here to listen. She passionately focuses on creating a safe place for people to feel comfortable making healthy changes in their lives. As a native Spanish speaker, she is an empathic, open-minded helper focused on truly hearing English- or Spanish-speaking clients. Specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression, Veronica provides catered treatment, primarily channeled through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(216) 606-8248 View (216) 606-8248
Photo of Sara W Floreth, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Sara W Floreth
Counselor, MA, PCCS
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
I am a level 3 Gottman Trained Therapist and enjoy working with premarital, marital and couples counseling. I also enjoy working with people experiencing: transition to adulthood and personal growth. I have experience living abroad and enjoy working with others different from myself.
I am a level 3 Gottman Trained Therapist and enjoy working with premarital, marital and couples counseling. I also enjoy working with people experiencing: transition to adulthood and personal growth. I have experience living abroad and enjoy working with others different from myself.
(216) 243-5693 View (216) 243-5693
Photo of Katherine Vanke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Katherine Vanke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
I am interested in supporting young people in navigating stressful and challenging life changes and believe that every individual is an expert on themselves. I want the therapeutic process to be collaborative and engaging. My previous clinical experience includes working within a university counseling center and with a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Intensive Outpatient Group. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in 2018 from Kent State University, my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a certificate in Chemical Dependency from Cleveland State University in 2022.
I am interested in supporting young people in navigating stressful and challenging life changes and believe that every individual is an expert on themselves. I want the therapeutic process to be collaborative and engaging. My previous clinical experience includes working within a university counseling center and with a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Intensive Outpatient Group. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in 2018 from Kent State University, my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a certificate in Chemical Dependency from Cleveland State University in 2022.
(216) 777-1309 View (216) 777-1309
Photo of Christine Moran, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Christine Moran
Counselor, LPCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
I am a Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) provider and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), clinically trained in EMDR therapy, Polyvagal Theory, parts work and attachment-based therapies, and other treatment methods grounded in the latest behavioral health and neuroscience research. While I enjoy working with clients with a multitude of presenting issues, I primarily specialize in treating trauma and PTSD. Using an integrated approach to therapy, I collaborate with clients on working through past and present difficulties to develop insight into complex issues and achieve the highest level of functioning.
I am a Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) provider and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), clinically trained in EMDR therapy, Polyvagal Theory, parts work and attachment-based therapies, and other treatment methods grounded in the latest behavioral health and neuroscience research. While I enjoy working with clients with a multitude of presenting issues, I primarily specialize in treating trauma and PTSD. Using an integrated approach to therapy, I collaborate with clients on working through past and present difficulties to develop insight into complex issues and achieve the highest level of functioning.
(440) 588-3178 View (440) 588-3178
Photo of Live Well Counseling in Lakewood, OH
Live Well Counseling
MEd, LPCC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Our clinicians at Live Well are Telehealth (virtual) only. We are a full service mental health organization which means we offer both counseling and psychiatry. At Live Well, our providers hold a space for self-reflection. We help you do the inner work, to learn what you aren’t necessarily aware of, to bring forward a deeper layer of yourself, and to understand why we are the way we are. Once we can understand that we do have a choice in all the chaos, we can start to heal.
Our clinicians at Live Well are Telehealth (virtual) only. We are a full service mental health organization which means we offer both counseling and psychiatry. At Live Well, our providers hold a space for self-reflection. We help you do the inner work, to learn what you aren’t necessarily aware of, to bring forward a deeper layer of yourself, and to understand why we are the way we are. Once we can understand that we do have a choice in all the chaos, we can start to heal.
(216) 677-3160 View (216) 677-3160
Photo of Amanda McKinney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Amanda McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Amanda McKinney is a Licensed Independent Social Worker who obtained her Masters of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Throughout her career, Amanda has always had a true passion for working with individuals from all walks of life to ensure they meet their self-identified goals for treatment. She believes in utilizing an individualized strengths-based holistic approach for each client and is a strong advocate for her client's right to self-determination.
Amanda McKinney is a Licensed Independent Social Worker who obtained her Masters of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University in 2015. Throughout her career, Amanda has always had a true passion for working with individuals from all walks of life to ensure they meet their self-identified goals for treatment. She believes in utilizing an individualized strengths-based holistic approach for each client and is a strong advocate for her client's right to self-determination.
(513) 995-7959 View (513) 995-7959
Photo of Sara Ridley Counseling Practice, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Sara Ridley Counseling Practice, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
I believe in taking a client-centered & solution-focused approach to help you address the issues that bring you to counseling & to help you explore aspects of your life that need either resolution or changes. My goal is to create a relaxed & comfortable atmosphere to work toward a reduction of symptoms & positive changes. Clients find me to be personable, understanding, non-judgmental, & welcoming. I enjoy the time I spend working with clients & hope that my clients find the time valuable as well. Please contact me with questions & if you would like to start working together.
I believe in taking a client-centered & solution-focused approach to help you address the issues that bring you to counseling & to help you explore aspects of your life that need either resolution or changes. My goal is to create a relaxed & comfortable atmosphere to work toward a reduction of symptoms & positive changes. Clients find me to be personable, understanding, non-judgmental, & welcoming. I enjoy the time I spend working with clients & hope that my clients find the time valuable as well. Please contact me with questions & if you would like to start working together.
(440) 363-7088 View (440) 363-7088
Photo of Cornerstone Behavioral Health in Lakewood, OH
Cornerstone Behavioral Health
LPCC-S, CCTP, CCFP, CDBT, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
Hope starts here. Are you feeling sad or stressed? Do you experience mood swings but don't really know why? Maybe you've been withdrawing from family, friends, or activities that used to breathe light into your life. If you have been feeling depressed, have found yourself more angry or hostile than normal, or suffer from low energy or problems sleeping, you may have an untreated mental health issue. Mental health impacts your way of thinking, relating to others, and overall quality of life. Many issues have been identified and defined including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), etc. You don't have to suffer anymore.
Hope starts here. Are you feeling sad or stressed? Do you experience mood swings but don't really know why? Maybe you've been withdrawing from family, friends, or activities that used to breathe light into your life. If you have been feeling depressed, have found yourself more angry or hostile than normal, or suffer from low energy or problems sleeping, you may have an untreated mental health issue. Mental health impacts your way of thinking, relating to others, and overall quality of life. Many issues have been identified and defined including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), etc. You don't have to suffer anymore.
(216) 238-5187 View (216) 238-5187
Photo of Rachel Astorino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Rachel Astorino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Not accepting new clients
Not Accepting New Clients! Hi! My name is Rachel. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor at Grow Well Cleveland. My hope is to work with individuals who are ready to move towards change and wellness. Whether you are stuck in discontent or uncertainty, struggling with life's big existential questions, feeling disempowered by the weight of oppressive institutions, or working through specific mental health concerns, I want to work together with you to find solutions that will improve your day-to-day life.
Not Accepting New Clients! Hi! My name is Rachel. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor at Grow Well Cleveland. My hope is to work with individuals who are ready to move towards change and wellness. Whether you are stuck in discontent or uncertainty, struggling with life's big existential questions, feeling disempowered by the weight of oppressive institutions, or working through specific mental health concerns, I want to work together with you to find solutions that will improve your day-to-day life.
(216) 284-1434 View (216) 284-1434
Photo of Michael Crowdes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Michael Crowdes
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Now Accepting New Clients - I am passionate about helping people break through difficulties that have been holding them back from feeling happy and hopeful. I work with people who are dealing with significant life changes, both personal and professional, relationship issues, and people who are searching for better insight into themselves, or a greater sense of purpose. One of my specialties is working with clients suffering from grief or loss.
Now Accepting New Clients - I am passionate about helping people break through difficulties that have been holding them back from feeling happy and hopeful. I work with people who are dealing with significant life changes, both personal and professional, relationship issues, and people who are searching for better insight into themselves, or a greater sense of purpose. One of my specialties is working with clients suffering from grief or loss.
(216) 677-1514 View (216) 677-1514
Photo of Steve Grauel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Steve Grauel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
As a therapist, my aim is to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for you explore whatever may be bothering you. I use a holistic and collaborative approach to help people examine their thoughts and emotions to gain a deeper self-understanding. I am deeply committed to supporting the mental health needs of the LGBTQ+ community. I understand that this community often faces unique challenges when it comes to navigating issues such as coming out, discrimination, and societal pressures.
As a therapist, my aim is to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for you explore whatever may be bothering you. I use a holistic and collaborative approach to help people examine their thoughts and emotions to gain a deeper self-understanding. I am deeply committed to supporting the mental health needs of the LGBTQ+ community. I understand that this community often faces unique challenges when it comes to navigating issues such as coming out, discrimination, and societal pressures.
(216) 238-6295 View (216) 238-6295
Photo of Megan Berg Donnelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Megan Berg Donnelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
Life brings challenges and hardships often leaving us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. You do not have to be alone in your struggles, and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals. I place a high value on the therapeutic relationship, offering a safe, empathetic , judgement-free space to help you identify barriers and emotions that are holding you back, facilitating growth and self-awareness along the way. My mission is to empower client's to make change and create more meaning in their lives.
(216) 284-6049 View (216) 284-6049
Photo of Ashley Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Ashley Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping black woman and women of color find healthier ways to cope with childhood trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, professional burnout, and life transitions. People of color experience a lot of adversity and it is important to preserve spaces in which we can allow ourselves to be vulnerable, to share our deepest thoughts and feelings, and to heal. Therapy is wonderful tool for making lasting change. Let's work together in working through the difficulties that are keeping you from reaching your goals.
I specialize in helping black woman and women of color find healthier ways to cope with childhood trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, professional burnout, and life transitions. People of color experience a lot of adversity and it is important to preserve spaces in which we can allow ourselves to be vulnerable, to share our deepest thoughts and feelings, and to heal. Therapy is wonderful tool for making lasting change. Let's work together in working through the difficulties that are keeping you from reaching your goals.
(216) 616-2896 View (216) 616-2896
Mary Elizabeth Elkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
I specialize in working with clients individually who are primarily adults (16+) experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation/outbursts, self-harm thoughts/behavior, and suicidal thoughts. Therapy in our room is collaborative, exploratory, and educational. Examples of treatment goals where I’ve been helpful include identifying triggers, gaining coping skills, and improving mood. My experience includes inpatient and outpatient settings in behavioral health hospitals.
I specialize in working with clients individually who are primarily adults (16+) experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation/outbursts, self-harm thoughts/behavior, and suicidal thoughts. Therapy in our room is collaborative, exploratory, and educational. Examples of treatment goals where I’ve been helpful include identifying triggers, gaining coping skills, and improving mood. My experience includes inpatient and outpatient settings in behavioral health hospitals.
(216) 208-4766 View (216) 208-4766
Photo of Melanie Shmois, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, OH
Melanie Shmois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Weight , MSSA, LISW-S, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Hello, I am Melanie Shmois, MSSA, LISW-S, Certified Life & Weight Loss Coach, Shadow Integration Master. I am a personal coach & therapist for high-performers who are at the top of their game professionally and also want to excel in their personal lives. I use transformation coaching tools to facilitate change.
Hello, I am Melanie Shmois, MSSA, LISW-S, Certified Life & Weight Loss Coach, Shadow Integration Master. I am a personal coach & therapist for high-performers who are at the top of their game professionally and also want to excel in their personal lives. I use transformation coaching tools to facilitate change.
(216) 223-8990 View (216) 223-8990
Photo of Sina Akther, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Sina Akther
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, M Ed, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Not accepting new clients
Change is uncomfortable; not feeling in control is the worst... It is not easy adapting to change that is out of your control. As the world is changing, it may feel like we don't have a grasp of our lives. Spending time with ourselves, we might learn more about what we like, and often times - what we don't like. I've been there, and I want to be there for you through this time. Sometimes, all we need is a person to hear us without judgment, and provide us with insight and the truth to our concerns. I am happy to provide that with you.
Change is uncomfortable; not feeling in control is the worst... It is not easy adapting to change that is out of your control. As the world is changing, it may feel like we don't have a grasp of our lives. Spending time with ourselves, we might learn more about what we like, and often times - what we don't like. I've been there, and I want to be there for you through this time. Sometimes, all we need is a person to hear us without judgment, and provide us with insight and the truth to our concerns. I am happy to provide that with you.
(216) 302-7732 View (216) 302-7732
Photo of Arianna Music, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lakewood, OH
Arianna Music
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, CCTP, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107  (Online Only)
The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change (Carl Rogers). Arianna is an empathic helper who has worked with many different diagnoses. She passionately believes that empathic connection is most-valuable to healthy healing and growth. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, Arianna provides person-centered treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Arianna is focused on creating a space that is safe and free of judgment. This leads to learning, trying new things, and healing.
The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change (Carl Rogers). Arianna is an empathic helper who has worked with many different diagnoses. She passionately believes that empathic connection is most-valuable to healthy healing and growth. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, Arianna provides person-centered treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Arianna is focused on creating a space that is safe and free of judgment. This leads to learning, trying new things, and healing.
(216) 208-3887 View (216) 208-3887
Photo of Lauren Skillicorn, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lakewood, OH
Lauren Skillicorn
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, EMDR Tr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, OH 44107
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed professional counselor and art therapist at Grow Well Cleveland. I have experience working with individuals experiencing a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, life adjustments/transitions, effects from trauma, ADHD, chronic pain, and relationship challenges. I utilize an eclectic and person-centered approach to treatment which may include art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I am a licensed professional counselor and art therapist at Grow Well Cleveland. I have experience working with individuals experiencing a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, life adjustments/transitions, effects from trauma, ADHD, chronic pain, and relationship challenges. I utilize an eclectic and person-centered approach to treatment which may include art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
(216) 282-3838 View (216) 282-3838
Photo of L Claire Campbell, Counselor in Lakewood, OH
L Claire Campbell
Counselor, ATR, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, anxious or grieving? Going through a big life transition? I will meet you where you are in life in a safe, affirming space to explore your personal story, growth, and potential. I can help you make sense of things through traditional talk therapy coupled with somatic processing, mindfulness practice, relaxation techniques, guided imagery, movement and art therapy. I view each client as unique and having a powerful story to share. I will work with you to identify your inherent strengths, growing edges and support developing what changes will foster ongoing hope and positivity.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, anxious or grieving? Going through a big life transition? I will meet you where you are in life in a safe, affirming space to explore your personal story, growth, and potential. I can help you make sense of things through traditional talk therapy coupled with somatic processing, mindfulness practice, relaxation techniques, guided imagery, movement and art therapy. I view each client as unique and having a powerful story to share. I will work with you to identify your inherent strengths, growing edges and support developing what changes will foster ongoing hope and positivity.
(216) 206-8889 View (216) 206-8889

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lakewood, OH

200+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Lakewood, OH who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
93% Depression
84% Self Esteem
80% Relationship Issues
80% Coping Skills
79% Stress
75% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Medical Mutual
87% Aetna
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Lakewood, OH see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
21% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lakewood?

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.