Therapists in Meridian, ID

Photo of Kristin Overton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Kristin Overton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
I believe that every individual has been created with intrinsic value and unique purpose. We were meant to live whole, integrated, and connected lives that flourish. But painful or traumatic life experiences can diminish us over time, pulling us away from who we were created to be, often wreaking havoc with our minds, bodies, emotions, and relationships in the process. If you are weary of merely surviving and desire to truly thrive, I want to remind you that you are not alone and that there is hope. There is a path that has led to the place you are now, and there is a different path forward that leads to healing and wholeness.
I believe that every individual has been created with intrinsic value and unique purpose. We were meant to live whole, integrated, and connected lives that flourish. But painful or traumatic life experiences can diminish us over time, pulling us away from who we were created to be, often wreaking havoc with our minds, bodies, emotions, and relationships in the process. If you are weary of merely surviving and desire to truly thrive, I want to remind you that you are not alone and that there is hope. There is a path that has led to the place you are now, and there is a different path forward that leads to healing and wholeness.
(208) 408-1304 View (208) 408-1304
Photo of Kendra Woolstenhulme, Marriage & Family Therapist in Meridian, ID
Kendra Woolstenhulme
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, CCLS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
There are times in our lives when we just can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. We often feel overwhelmed in our relationships, not knowing what to do to make them better. As your therapist, I can be there to provide compassion, insight, and suggestions that can help you move in the direction you want to go. I believe that therapy can help individuals, couples, and families develop the skills needed to help you achieve your goals.
There are times in our lives when we just can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. We often feel overwhelmed in our relationships, not knowing what to do to make them better. As your therapist, I can be there to provide compassion, insight, and suggestions that can help you move in the direction you want to go. I believe that therapy can help individuals, couples, and families develop the skills needed to help you achieve your goals.
(202) 217-1209 View (202) 217-1209
Photo of Molly Hill, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Meridian, ID
Molly Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
I am deeply passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families overcome life's challenges and build healthy relationships. I believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life, and I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment. I have gained experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings. I have worked with children and adolescents in school settings, helping them navigate social and emotional challenges. I have also worked with adults in community mental health clinics, providing individual and group therapy to help them address a variety of mental health concerns.
I am deeply passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families overcome life's challenges and build healthy relationships. I believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life, and I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment. I have gained experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings. I have worked with children and adolescents in school settings, helping them navigate social and emotional challenges. I have also worked with adults in community mental health clinics, providing individual and group therapy to help them address a variety of mental health concerns.
(208) 825-9052 View (208) 825-9052
Photo of Jennifer Smith-Online Counseling Available, Counselor in Meridian, ID
Jennifer Smith-Online Counseling Available
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642  (Online Only)
**NOW OFFERING ONLINE/TELEMENTAL HEALTH SESSIONS It takes courage to reach out and involve a counselor in our most intimate of life's struggles. I honor that courage. My goal is to provide a safe and judgment-free environment for you to process what's going on in your life. Making a connection with a counselor you trust is so important. I chose to do this work because I am passionate about helping people, and maybe more so, because I have personally experienced very powerful changes in my own life from facing my "stuff" with a therapist I trusted. I believe in this process.
**NOW OFFERING ONLINE/TELEMENTAL HEALTH SESSIONS It takes courage to reach out and involve a counselor in our most intimate of life's struggles. I honor that courage. My goal is to provide a safe and judgment-free environment for you to process what's going on in your life. Making a connection with a counselor you trust is so important. I chose to do this work because I am passionate about helping people, and maybe more so, because I have personally experienced very powerful changes in my own life from facing my "stuff" with a therapist I trusted. I believe in this process.
(208) 874-4826 View (208) 874-4826
Photo of Shane Thomason, Counselor in Meridian, ID
Shane Thomason
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a straight-forward and honest approach to therapy and I am direct in identifying real-life solutions to the presenting issues. I am an experienced counselor and I am often able to connect with and form positive relationships with those who are resistant to counseling or skeptical of the counseling process. I have found humor to be quite productive in treatment and will implement it often. I have experience in treating issues such as (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, anger issues, parenting concerns, and marriage/couples issues.
I utilize a straight-forward and honest approach to therapy and I am direct in identifying real-life solutions to the presenting issues. I am an experienced counselor and I am often able to connect with and form positive relationships with those who are resistant to counseling or skeptical of the counseling process. I have found humor to be quite productive in treatment and will implement it often. I have experience in treating issues such as (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, anger issues, parenting concerns, and marriage/couples issues.
(208) 918-1636 View (208) 918-1636
Photo of Melonie Gale, Counselor in Meridian, ID
Melonie Gale
Counselor, LCPC, LMFT, LPCC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646  (Online Only)
OVER 30 + YEARS EXPERIENCE in Counseling & Psychotherapy. Currently, Melonie is accepting only (phone) Telehealth clients at a reduced rate of $100 per Session. Choosing the right Therapist is as important as your motivation to change and grow. Each Client receives personalized and collaborative counseling provided in a safe, supportive way. I work interactively with each individual to define goals based on your needs. Therapy may be brief or in-depth, focusing on pattern changing and recognition of choices and strength… I have a knack for seeing the bigger picture and helping you in achieving balance and inner peace.
OVER 30 + YEARS EXPERIENCE in Counseling & Psychotherapy. Currently, Melonie is accepting only (phone) Telehealth clients at a reduced rate of $100 per Session. Choosing the right Therapist is as important as your motivation to change and grow. Each Client receives personalized and collaborative counseling provided in a safe, supportive way. I work interactively with each individual to define goals based on your needs. Therapy may be brief or in-depth, focusing on pattern changing and recognition of choices and strength… I have a knack for seeing the bigger picture and helping you in achieving balance and inner peace.
(858) 429-8999 View (858) 429-8999
Photo of Aleesia Funke-Garcia in Meridian, ID
Aleesia Funke-Garcia
LMSW
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
Serving humans navigating life with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) whether it be yourself, your child or your spouse is an area I have dedicated my professional practice to and one of which I am the utmost passionate about. I practice a strengths based approach when working with clients and their families. Identifying and harnessing existing strengths, establishing self-advocacy skills and fostering that power can be invaluable to those who need it. I work with children, adolescents and adults motivated to gain insight through an alternative lens.
Serving humans navigating life with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) whether it be yourself, your child or your spouse is an area I have dedicated my professional practice to and one of which I am the utmost passionate about. I practice a strengths based approach when working with clients and their families. Identifying and harnessing existing strengths, establishing self-advocacy skills and fostering that power can be invaluable to those who need it. I work with children, adolescents and adults motivated to gain insight through an alternative lens.
(208) 295-5734 View (208) 295-5734
Photo of Madison Caldwell, Counselor in Meridian, ID
Madison Caldwell
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether this is your first time in therapy, or you are seeking assistance again, it is my goal to help you feel both safe and welcome into the counseling process. It is my hope that no matter who you are, we are able to create a safe space to facilitate growth and increase knowledge about the self. I also have a passion for assisting new clinicians learn the ropes of being a therapist, after six years in practice I am looking forward to giving back through clinical supervision.
Whether this is your first time in therapy, or you are seeking assistance again, it is my goal to help you feel both safe and welcome into the counseling process. It is my hope that no matter who you are, we are able to create a safe space to facilitate growth and increase knowledge about the self. I also have a passion for assisting new clinicians learn the ropes of being a therapist, after six years in practice I am looking forward to giving back through clinical supervision.
(208) 718-5960 View (208) 718-5960
Photo of Malisa Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Malisa Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMSP
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
I work with children of all ages, teenagers, families, couples, women, groups & individuals. Are you seeking the ability to thrive & live the life you desire? In session you will learn how to recognize your true identity, full potential, release trauma & gain the freedom to form new healthy patterns. We will develop a trusting therapeutic relationship so you & I can form goals & enable positive change. We will focus on your strengths so you can thrive & have hope. Do you want to see your concerns melt away and gain the ability to make new healthy patterns? We will work on all this in a relaxed session.
I work with children of all ages, teenagers, families, couples, women, groups & individuals. Are you seeking the ability to thrive & live the life you desire? In session you will learn how to recognize your true identity, full potential, release trauma & gain the freedom to form new healthy patterns. We will develop a trusting therapeutic relationship so you & I can form goals & enable positive change. We will focus on your strengths so you can thrive & have hope. Do you want to see your concerns melt away and gain the ability to make new healthy patterns? We will work on all this in a relaxed session.
(208) 231-7273 View (208) 231-7273
Photo of Brandie Brigham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Meridian, ID
Brandie Brigham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
With over 25 years experience working with adults, children, couples and families, I bring a variety of resources to help you grow through whatever challenges you are facing. My professional and life experience have prepared me to adjust to your individual style and I totally avoid the one-size-fits-all approach that most therapists use. I am so grateful to be a part of the growth process of so many wonderful clients. I would be honored to help you in whatever way I can.
With over 25 years experience working with adults, children, couples and families, I bring a variety of resources to help you grow through whatever challenges you are facing. My professional and life experience have prepared me to adjust to your individual style and I totally avoid the one-size-fits-all approach that most therapists use. I am so grateful to be a part of the growth process of so many wonderful clients. I would be honored to help you in whatever way I can.
(208) 908-7485 View (208) 908-7485
Photo of Colby Hammer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Colby Hammer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
Can't seem to get along with you kid? Do even simple conversations turn into conflict and wear you out? Do you wish your kid was better at resolving conflicts, overcoming challenges, and managing emotions? Or do you just want to get along better with them? I help parents better understand their kids and find parenting methods that work. I help kids calm down, manage emotions, solve problems, and get along better with their family. I regularly help families of special needs kids, including Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disorders.
Can't seem to get along with you kid? Do even simple conversations turn into conflict and wear you out? Do you wish your kid was better at resolving conflicts, overcoming challenges, and managing emotions? Or do you just want to get along better with them? I help parents better understand their kids and find parenting methods that work. I help kids calm down, manage emotions, solve problems, and get along better with their family. I regularly help families of special needs kids, including Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disorders.
(208) 607-3573 View (208) 607-3573
Photo of Caitlin Parker, Counselor in Meridian, ID
Caitlin Parker
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Caitlin Parker, an EMDR Certified LCPC with over 15 years of experience practicing in Idaho! My specialties include the treatment of complex trauma, eating disorders, and women's issues. I particularly enjoy working with other providers, professional women, and those who have experience in therapy and are ready to take their work to the next level.
Welcome! I'm Caitlin Parker, an EMDR Certified LCPC with over 15 years of experience practicing in Idaho! My specialties include the treatment of complex trauma, eating disorders, and women's issues. I particularly enjoy working with other providers, professional women, and those who have experience in therapy and are ready to take their work to the next level.
(208) 987-1568 View (208) 987-1568
Photo of Andrew Sheffield, LPC Intern in Meridian, ID
Andrew Sheffield
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
I want to help those that may otherwise not receive the help and support they need. We all go through difficult periods in life, and having the right support is essential in taking care of oneself. I’m here to help individuals address past traumas, daily mental health symptoms, suicidal ideations, or day to day stresses. I spent nearly 8 years with the Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline. I believe Suicide is preventable and therapy plays a role it the prevention process.
I want to help those that may otherwise not receive the help and support they need. We all go through difficult periods in life, and having the right support is essential in taking care of oneself. I’m here to help individuals address past traumas, daily mental health symptoms, suicidal ideations, or day to day stresses. I spent nearly 8 years with the Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline. I believe Suicide is preventable and therapy plays a role it the prevention process.
(208) 537-2177 View (208) 537-2177
Photo of Sara Holden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Sara Holden
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
Life can be beautiful. It can also be painful, confusing, overwhelming, and painful. I believe that counseling helps us to explore our thoughts and feelings with someone else - to understand ourselves better and grow in the process. This growth can promote self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-love. Some of my experience centers on working with those who are experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, body-related issues, low self-image, and issues surrounding sex.
Life can be beautiful. It can also be painful, confusing, overwhelming, and painful. I believe that counseling helps us to explore our thoughts and feelings with someone else - to understand ourselves better and grow in the process. This growth can promote self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-love. Some of my experience centers on working with those who are experiencing depression, anxiety, loss, body-related issues, low self-image, and issues surrounding sex.
(208) 747-0328 View (208) 747-0328
Photo of Anna James, Counselor in Meridian, ID
Anna James
Counselor, MS, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
Currently Accepting New Clients - Fostering growth through authentic communication, empathy, compassion, innovation and humor. Together we will work to heal unresolved wounds, while restoring balance to daily life. I specialize in helping clients of all ages through major life transitions (personal and career related), relationship issues, dating, positive aging, empty nesting, aging parents, divorce, and more.
Currently Accepting New Clients - Fostering growth through authentic communication, empathy, compassion, innovation and humor. Together we will work to heal unresolved wounds, while restoring balance to daily life. I specialize in helping clients of all ages through major life transitions (personal and career related), relationship issues, dating, positive aging, empty nesting, aging parents, divorce, and more.
(509) 312-9902 View (509) 312-9902
Photo of Sydney Young, Licensed Professional Counselor in Meridian, ID
Sydney Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83642
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** The counseling experiences is a powerful journey of growth and change. My role as a counselor and helper is to hold space for that healing and growth to occur. I hope to help create a safe place to deal with past and current issues, explore the self, and create a healthy future. Counseling is and should be a safe place for everyone, and I value that diversity.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** The counseling experiences is a powerful journey of growth and change. My role as a counselor and helper is to hold space for that healing and growth to occur. I hope to help create a safe place to deal with past and current issues, explore the self, and create a healthy future. Counseling is and should be a safe place for everyone, and I value that diversity.
(208) 768-4718 View (208) 768-4718
Photo of Jeanne Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Meridian, ID
Jeanne Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
I have a strong belief in the power of resilience and our individual capacity to heal and grow. Taking a warm and non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore and address their challenges. I work with individuals, couples, and families, with an expertise in diverse mental health issues including ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma. This enables me to empower individuals and families to navigate through life's difficulties and achieve lasting positive change.
I have a strong belief in the power of resilience and our individual capacity to heal and grow. Taking a warm and non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore and address their challenges. I work with individuals, couples, and families, with an expertise in diverse mental health issues including ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and trauma. This enables me to empower individuals and families to navigate through life's difficulties and achieve lasting positive change.
(208) 812-5273 View (208) 812-5273
Sheila Sturgeon Freitas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
As a clinical psychologist, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. Utilizing an eclectic approach, I work collaboratively to address the issues that have led my clients to seek help. I enjoy working with complex trauma, abuse, PTSD, adoption, attachment, general psychotherapy issues, stressful life events, relationship issues, bereavement, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, mood and anxiety issues, and most kid-related issues (ODD, adjustment issues, etc). I further have significant experience addressing gifted and talented related issues and am an EMDR-level II trained clinician.
As a clinical psychologist, I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. Utilizing an eclectic approach, I work collaboratively to address the issues that have led my clients to seek help. I enjoy working with complex trauma, abuse, PTSD, adoption, attachment, general psychotherapy issues, stressful life events, relationship issues, bereavement, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, mood and anxiety issues, and most kid-related issues (ODD, adjustment issues, etc). I further have significant experience addressing gifted and talented related issues and am an EMDR-level II trained clinician.
(208) 219-5261 View (208) 219-5261
Photo of Angie Sherwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Meridian, ID
Angie Sherwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CSTP
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83642
Waitlist for new clients
Angie provides a safe, warm, and honest atmosphere while accompanying clients through their journey to reach their goals and create the life they have envisioned. Angie believes that each client presents with unique circumstances requiring unique approaches. As an Integrative Therapist, she offers a variety of therapeutic techniques designed to meet each client's needs. Angie's theoretical framework is a compilation of cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, Mindfulness, DBT and more. Angie has received training in treating eating disorders, trauma, a broad scope of mental health and addiction disorders and enjoys working with families, individuals, couples, and adolescents.
Angie provides a safe, warm, and honest atmosphere while accompanying clients through their journey to reach their goals and create the life they have envisioned. Angie believes that each client presents with unique circumstances requiring unique approaches. As an Integrative Therapist, she offers a variety of therapeutic techniques designed to meet each client's needs. Angie's theoretical framework is a compilation of cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, Mindfulness, DBT and more. Angie has received training in treating eating disorders, trauma, a broad scope of mental health and addiction disorders and enjoys working with families, individuals, couples, and adolescents.
(208) 647-0389 View (208) 647-0389
Photo of Ryan Wynder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Meridian, ID
Ryan Wynder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
The process of change can be a difficult one. There are many obstacles you can expect to encounter in trying to change. The single most important factor in creating therapeutic change is actually the relationship that you have with your therapist. As a result, finding the best fit for YOU is crucial. I am devoted to creating a very genuine, safe, comfortable, empathetic, and understanding environment for my clients. My philosophy: because people are unique with their own individual experience, I pull from many different theories, exercises, and fields of thought to create an experience that is custom to my clients' specific needs.
The process of change can be a difficult one. There are many obstacles you can expect to encounter in trying to change. The single most important factor in creating therapeutic change is actually the relationship that you have with your therapist. As a result, finding the best fit for YOU is crucial. I am devoted to creating a very genuine, safe, comfortable, empathetic, and understanding environment for my clients. My philosophy: because people are unique with their own individual experience, I pull from many different theories, exercises, and fields of thought to create an experience that is custom to my clients' specific needs.
(970) 432-3588 View (970) 432-3588

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Meridian, ID

500+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Meridian, ID who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
77% Trauma and PTSD
70% Coping Skills
70% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Blue Cross
68% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% Aetna

How Therapists in Meridian, ID see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Meridian?

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.