Therapists in Chesterfield, VA

Photo of Nessalyn Dearce, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Nessalyn Dearce
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Nessalyn Dearce is a Resident in Counseling who has experience providing mental health services to children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, chronic illness, and stress management. Nessalyn is LGBTQIA+ affirming and works to maintain multicultural awareness in sessions. She completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology at Christopher Newport University and her Master of Science (MS) in Education in Counseling at Old Dominion University.
Nessalyn Dearce is a Resident in Counseling who has experience providing mental health services to children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, chronic illness, and stress management. Nessalyn is LGBTQIA+ affirming and works to maintain multicultural awareness in sessions. She completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology at Christopher Newport University and her Master of Science (MS) in Education in Counseling at Old Dominion University.
(804) 913-3196 View (804) 913-3196
Photo of Kris Patterson, Resident in Counseling in Chesterfield, VA
Kris Patterson
Resident in Counseling, MA, R-LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Change is possible, and our lives can differ from what we currently live. Most of us don’t have the knowledge or tools to make those changes. That is where counseling can help. As a therapist, I can assist you with understanding and processing why and how you think. Knowledge is power. Once you have that knowledge, you can implement changes in your life. Therapy allows you to create your toolbox filled with coping mechanisms, stress-relieving techniques, and reframing tools that you can rely on throughout your life to get you through difficult times and situations.
Change is possible, and our lives can differ from what we currently live. Most of us don’t have the knowledge or tools to make those changes. That is where counseling can help. As a therapist, I can assist you with understanding and processing why and how you think. Knowledge is power. Once you have that knowledge, you can implement changes in your life. Therapy allows you to create your toolbox filled with coping mechanisms, stress-relieving techniques, and reframing tools that you can rely on throughout your life to get you through difficult times and situations.
(804) 596-6246 View (804) 596-6246
Photo of Shelby Pearce, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chesterfield, VA
Shelby Pearce
Pre-Licensed Professional, RIC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space. Shelby holds a Master of Science in Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space. Shelby holds a Master of Science in Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University.
(804) 294-4860 View (804) 294-4860
Photo of Melece Meservy, Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy in Chesterfield, VA
Melece Meservy
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
The famous love story has always ended with couples in love with one another, but what about when they reach another stage? What about when couples fall into being in life with one another instead? If this sounds familiar to you, you are not alone and I am here and happy to help. Couples therapy is about listening to understand, rather than listening to respond. Remembering this, together we can work on addressing the true client - the relationship you and your partner share with one another.
The famous love story has always ended with couples in love with one another, but what about when they reach another stage? What about when couples fall into being in life with one another instead? If this sounds familiar to you, you are not alone and I am here and happy to help. Couples therapy is about listening to understand, rather than listening to respond. Remembering this, together we can work on addressing the true client - the relationship you and your partner share with one another.
(804) 719-3695 View (804) 719-3695
Photo of Yesenia Adent, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Yesenia Adent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Yesenia Adent, a Licensed Professional Counselor received her graduate degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Yesenia works with adolescents (13 to 18 year of age), adults, geriatrics, families, and couples. She is fluent in Spanish. Yesenia will work with you or your loved one to promote safety and healing. She prides herself on taking the time to understand your unique story and to work to equip you with understanding and skills that will make the work of change more manageable. She is also a board approved counselor supervisor.
Yesenia Adent, a Licensed Professional Counselor received her graduate degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Yesenia works with adolescents (13 to 18 year of age), adults, geriatrics, families, and couples. She is fluent in Spanish. Yesenia will work with you or your loved one to promote safety and healing. She prides herself on taking the time to understand your unique story and to work to equip you with understanding and skills that will make the work of change more manageable. She is also a board approved counselor supervisor.
(804) 626-9531 View (804) 626-9531
Photo of Amy E Goodman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Amy E Goodman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
I don't really believe in the idea of "an ideal client". Each person brings their unique experiences with them. It's my job, as a therapist, to meet you where you are right here, right now.
I don't really believe in the idea of "an ideal client". Each person brings their unique experiences with them. It's my job, as a therapist, to meet you where you are right here, right now.
(804) 395-5913 View (804) 395-5913
Photo of Jennifer Dishner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Jennifer Dishner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Jennifer Dishner is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has worked with a wide variety of populations in many different settings including public schools, inpatient hospital units, and community work. Helping individuals and families find their strengths and self-worth is a major role of Jennifer's clinical work. It is through this clinical work that she believes clients are best able to realize their potential growth and maintain positive change. Jennifer received her undergraduate degree in Psychology at Longwood University in Virginia and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lynchburg College.
Jennifer Dishner is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has worked with a wide variety of populations in many different settings including public schools, inpatient hospital units, and community work. Helping individuals and families find their strengths and self-worth is a major role of Jennifer's clinical work. It is through this clinical work that she believes clients are best able to realize their potential growth and maintain positive change. Jennifer received her undergraduate degree in Psychology at Longwood University in Virginia and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lynchburg College.
(804) 294-4187 View (804) 294-4187
Photo of Halle' D. Hurt, Resident in Counseling in Chesterfield, VA
Halle' D. Hurt
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first steps to healing! My name is Halle’ and I am currently a Resident in Counseling working towards LPC licensure. I provide therapy to adult and adolescent clients struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm, trauma, and identity exploration. I also have experience working with adults to sustain addiction recovery and battle PTSD associated with substance abuse.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first steps to healing! My name is Halle’ and I am currently a Resident in Counseling working towards LPC licensure. I provide therapy to adult and adolescent clients struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm, trauma, and identity exploration. I also have experience working with adults to sustain addiction recovery and battle PTSD associated with substance abuse.
(804) 532-5426 View (804) 532-5426
Photo of Allison A Dyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
Allison A Dyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
I have had the privilege of working with clients facing a diverse range of life challenges, both past and present. From anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship struggles, I am here to help. My area of expertise lies in assisting clients with intrusive traumatic memories, empowering them to develop effective coping skills and engaging in the process of reprocessing those memories.
I have had the privilege of working with clients facing a diverse range of life challenges, both past and present. From anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship struggles, I am here to help. My area of expertise lies in assisting clients with intrusive traumatic memories, empowering them to develop effective coping skills and engaging in the process of reprocessing those memories.
(804) 492-0743 View (804) 492-0743
Photo of ELLAD Preventative Health in Chesterfield, VA
ELLAD Preventative Health
PMHNP, FNP, LCSW, ANP, CNS
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Our team of mental health clinicians, including a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Nurse Practitioners, are well-equipped to assess, diagnose, evaluate, and treat various mental health conditions. Our team of LCSW, PMHNP, and NP clinicians work collaboratively to prioritize your mental health and wellness needs. We take pride in providing high-quality, evidence-based care and a commitment to all our client's mental health and wellness. Our holistic and integrated approach enables us to assess and implement evidence-based care tailored to each client's medical needs, helping our clients feel better as quickly as possible.
Our team of mental health clinicians, including a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Nurse Practitioners, are well-equipped to assess, diagnose, evaluate, and treat various mental health conditions. Our team of LCSW, PMHNP, and NP clinicians work collaboratively to prioritize your mental health and wellness needs. We take pride in providing high-quality, evidence-based care and a commitment to all our client's mental health and wellness. Our holistic and integrated approach enables us to assess and implement evidence-based care tailored to each client's medical needs, helping our clients feel better as quickly as possible.
(804) 298-7497 x1 View (804) 298-7497 x1
Photo of Grace Lynn Albert, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chesterfield, VA
Grace Lynn Albert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Not accepting new clients
In a world of constant taboos and societal expectations, it can sometimes feel hard to find non-judgmental, empathetic, safe spaces. It is my priority to provide this space for my clients. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, isolation, everyday stressors, dilemmas related to sexuality or gender identity, pain with sex (genito-pelvic pain, vaginismus, dyspareunia), or dissatisfaction with your sex life - I am here to help you through it. I work from a strengths-based and trauma-informed lens to empower my clients. I will support you in self-exploration, healing, and achieving your specific goals.
In a world of constant taboos and societal expectations, it can sometimes feel hard to find non-judgmental, empathetic, safe spaces. It is my priority to provide this space for my clients. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, isolation, everyday stressors, dilemmas related to sexuality or gender identity, pain with sex (genito-pelvic pain, vaginismus, dyspareunia), or dissatisfaction with your sex life - I am here to help you through it. I work from a strengths-based and trauma-informed lens to empower my clients. I will support you in self-exploration, healing, and achieving your specific goals.
(804) 294-4361 View (804) 294-4361
Photo of Britni Higginbotham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Britni Higginbotham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor offering in-person individual therapy for adults. Areas I enjoy working with through therapy are adoptive parent(s) related grief or trauma, attachment, infidelity or fertility-related trauma or grief, overwhelmed and overstimulated mothers, and trauma. I pull from IFS, EMDR, DBT and Gottman models in our sessions to best meet your needs.  My role is to create a safe environment where your feelings and boundaries are respected. My aim is to provide you with support and empower you with the necessary tools to handle challenging or traumatic experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor offering in-person individual therapy for adults. Areas I enjoy working with through therapy are adoptive parent(s) related grief or trauma, attachment, infidelity or fertility-related trauma or grief, overwhelmed and overstimulated mothers, and trauma. I pull from IFS, EMDR, DBT and Gottman models in our sessions to best meet your needs.  My role is to create a safe environment where your feelings and boundaries are respected. My aim is to provide you with support and empower you with the necessary tools to handle challenging or traumatic experience.
(804) 593-0712 View (804) 593-0712
Photo of LaKetia D Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
LaKetia D Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv, CA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
LaKetia Baker is a clinical therapist specializing in helping individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma, betrayal, and abuse. She aims to empower clients to be intentional in their healing journey to recognize, accept, and walk in their worth and intentionally enhance their relationships and daily lives.
LaKetia Baker is a clinical therapist specializing in helping individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma, betrayal, and abuse. She aims to empower clients to be intentional in their healing journey to recognize, accept, and walk in their worth and intentionally enhance their relationships and daily lives.
(804) 258-6293 View (804) 258-6293
Photo of Carl Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chesterfield, VA
Carl Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Carl Brown is a Resident in Counseling who has been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. Mr. Brown has experience working with seriously mentally ill population (SMI) adults, children, and families who have experienced trauma, varied mental health diagnoses, and legal and socioeconomic concerns. His professional career began with District 19 Community Services Board (CSB) as a qualified mental health professional working in the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Day Program. There he was primarily responsible for training and developing individuals with serious mental illness on independent living skills.
Carl Brown is a Resident in Counseling who has been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. Mr. Brown has experience working with seriously mentally ill population (SMI) adults, children, and families who have experienced trauma, varied mental health diagnoses, and legal and socioeconomic concerns. His professional career began with District 19 Community Services Board (CSB) as a qualified mental health professional working in the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Day Program. There he was primarily responsible for training and developing individuals with serious mental illness on independent living skills.
(804) 886-1060 View (804) 886-1060
Photo of Teresa M. Mefford, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Teresa M. Mefford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
TERESA MEFFORD, MS, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is an alumna from Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia and earned her degree through the school of Allied Health with emphasis on Rehabilitation Counseling and counseling through its Alcohol and Drug Education Rehabilitation Program. She works with children, youth, and adults who have been diagnosed with physical, intellectual, mental, emotional and substance use disorders. She provides a warm and caring nonjudgmental approach to help people find solutions to their problems.
TERESA MEFFORD, MS, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is an alumna from Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia and earned her degree through the school of Allied Health with emphasis on Rehabilitation Counseling and counseling through its Alcohol and Drug Education Rehabilitation Program. She works with children, youth, and adults who have been diagnosed with physical, intellectual, mental, emotional and substance use disorders. She provides a warm and caring nonjudgmental approach to help people find solutions to their problems.
(804) 825-2702 View (804) 825-2702
Photo of Jericia Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Jericia Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, BSW, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Having difficulty managing the stresses of life: work, family, friends or overwhelmed with responsibilities? Having trouble sleeping, managing your weight, experiencing physical pain or being plagued with worry thoughts? Grieving a loss and struggling to cope? Are people in your life encouraging you to "talk to someone" or giving you ultimatums about getting help? Consider individual, couples, or group counseling to help you get renewed and refocused on your life plan. Please reach out so we can discuss how I can be an effective companion on your healing journey.
Having difficulty managing the stresses of life: work, family, friends or overwhelmed with responsibilities? Having trouble sleeping, managing your weight, experiencing physical pain or being plagued with worry thoughts? Grieving a loss and struggling to cope? Are people in your life encouraging you to "talk to someone" or giving you ultimatums about getting help? Consider individual, couples, or group counseling to help you get renewed and refocused on your life plan. Please reach out so we can discuss how I can be an effective companion on your healing journey.
(804) 409-8583 View (804) 409-8583
Photo of Shelby Pearce, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chesterfield, VA
Shelby Pearce
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-R, QMHPA/C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space.
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space.
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Photo of Carrie Meyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
Carrie Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Teletherapy services offered in the states of Virginia and New Hampshire. If you strip away all the buzz phrases and five dollar words, at the end of the day, therapy boils down to a conversation about what is meaningful to you in life at this exact moment in time. As a seasoned therapist with over twenty five years of mental health experience, I seek to offer insight, support, and alliance with you as we explore what brings you to therapy and help you find your own answers. With a balance of straight forward observation and compassion, we will collaborate together to help you gain a sense of control and serenity in your life.
Teletherapy services offered in the states of Virginia and New Hampshire. If you strip away all the buzz phrases and five dollar words, at the end of the day, therapy boils down to a conversation about what is meaningful to you in life at this exact moment in time. As a seasoned therapist with over twenty five years of mental health experience, I seek to offer insight, support, and alliance with you as we explore what brings you to therapy and help you find your own answers. With a balance of straight forward observation and compassion, we will collaborate together to help you gain a sense of control and serenity in your life.
(804) 375-4940 View (804) 375-4940
Photo of NU Vision Counseling and Consulting Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chesterfield, VA
NU Vision Counseling and Consulting Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BC-TMH, LCSW, NCCE, ACM, SAP
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
We are a private practice of licensed clinical staff serving several states throughout the east coast, via traditional and non-traditional mental health services and caregiver support. We support our local domestic courts and partner with local community agencies, small businesses, and other mental health clinicians.
We are a private practice of licensed clinical staff serving several states throughout the east coast, via traditional and non-traditional mental health services and caregiver support. We support our local domestic courts and partner with local community agencies, small businesses, and other mental health clinicians.
(757) 384-9636 View (757) 384-9636
Photo of Hui Chen Wong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chesterfield, VA
Hui Chen Wong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Hui-Chen Wong is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of experience providing individual counseling for children, adolescents and adults across the lifespan. She specializes in treating mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, acute stress, ADHD, anxiety, depression, oppositional (ODD), conduct disorders, behavioral issues, family challenges, grief, loss, and life balance.
Hui-Chen Wong is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of experience providing individual counseling for children, adolescents and adults across the lifespan. She specializes in treating mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, acute stress, ADHD, anxiety, depression, oppositional (ODD), conduct disorders, behavioral issues, family challenges, grief, loss, and life balance.
(804) 657-6396 View (804) 657-6396

See more therapy options for Chesterfield

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Chesterfield, VA

100+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Chesterfield, VA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
81% Self Esteem
78% Coping Skills
76% Stress
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Anthem | Elevance
82% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Chesterfield, VA see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Chesterfield?

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.