Therapists in Albuquerque, NM

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Photo of Angela Porter, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Angela Porter
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87111
Now accepting new clients. I strive to provide a therapeutic experience where you, alone, or with your partner, can explore the depths of your relationship and work together to find deeper intimacy and connection. I work with you to develop communication skills, reduce anxiety, and create strategies to find your inner peace. Conflict is inevitable for any relationship, and it is my goal to work along side you, to repair the parts that cause harm. I have worked with all types of couples to strengthen and build upon the parts that brought you together.
Now accepting new clients. I strive to provide a therapeutic experience where you, alone, or with your partner, can explore the depths of your relationship and work together to find deeper intimacy and connection. I work with you to develop communication skills, reduce anxiety, and create strategies to find your inner peace. Conflict is inevitable for any relationship, and it is my goal to work along side you, to repair the parts that cause harm. I have worked with all types of couples to strengthen and build upon the parts that brought you together.
(505) 393-7634 View (505) 393-7634
Photo of Cocoon Counseling, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Cocoon Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Are you stuck in patterns that you want to change? Have you experienced trauma and want to heal? Are you struggling with communication in a relationship? In my work with clients we work together to create a cocoon, a safe place where you can transform. I am an eclectic therapist who tailors my interventions and style to each client’s unique needs. Some modalities that I draw from are somatic counseling, DBT, dance/movement therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, attachment based, and expressive arts. My training and experiences support me in working with people who have experienced childhood sexual abuse or those who have epilepsy.
Are you stuck in patterns that you want to change? Have you experienced trauma and want to heal? Are you struggling with communication in a relationship? In my work with clients we work together to create a cocoon, a safe place where you can transform. I am an eclectic therapist who tailors my interventions and style to each client’s unique needs. Some modalities that I draw from are somatic counseling, DBT, dance/movement therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, attachment based, and expressive arts. My training and experiences support me in working with people who have experienced childhood sexual abuse or those who have epilepsy.
(505) 480-1038 View (505) 480-1038
Photo of Albuquerque SantaFe Child Psychotherapy/Counseling, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque SantaFe Child Psychotherapy/Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87111
I have a long history of working with children and families. I treat children of all ages and adults. I address attachment issues, academics, oppositional defiance, grief, loss and trauma. This is often complicated and usually requires the involvement of the whole family. I love working with children and find that there are always solutions and ways to accommodate the most difficult situations. I use a variety of modalities including play therapy which includes sand tray, art and a variety of other ways for self expression for children .
I have a long history of working with children and families. I treat children of all ages and adults. I address attachment issues, academics, oppositional defiance, grief, loss and trauma. This is often complicated and usually requires the involvement of the whole family. I love working with children and find that there are always solutions and ways to accommodate the most difficult situations. I use a variety of modalities including play therapy which includes sand tray, art and a variety of other ways for self expression for children .
(505) 407-8579 View (505) 407-8579
Photo of Rena Hoskins (A Choice In Mind Counseling), Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Rena Hoskins (A Choice In Mind Counseling)
Counselor, MS, LPCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87105  (Online Only)
I am an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community and my passion is to provide a safe space for both adolescents and adults, from all backgrounds, who are motivated to recover from all of life's stressors. I like to help clients learn how to acknowledge and process their past, but focus on their Here & Now, and what they want in their future. Tell me what you want, and we will figure out how to get there!
I am an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community and my passion is to provide a safe space for both adolescents and adults, from all backgrounds, who are motivated to recover from all of life's stressors. I like to help clients learn how to acknowledge and process their past, but focus on their Here & Now, and what they want in their future. Tell me what you want, and we will figure out how to get there!
(505) 372-6126 View (505) 372-6126
Photo of Cathleen Wilde, MA LPCC, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Cathleen Wilde, MA LPCC
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87109
Over 27 years I've had the privilege of helping children, teens, parents, co-parents, adults, and families; facing tough and painful circumstances. Family, Children's, Delinquency, and Criminal cases continues to lend support for those involved in legal matters. Parents are powerful influencers good & bad. I work to improve, empower and educate for more functional relationships. Children and teens often need an objective ear to help them with increasing pressures. Adults seeking support and problem-solving tools for relationships, career, and childhood-effects are also valued focus. This includes the effects of trauma and abuse.
Over 27 years I've had the privilege of helping children, teens, parents, co-parents, adults, and families; facing tough and painful circumstances. Family, Children's, Delinquency, and Criminal cases continues to lend support for those involved in legal matters. Parents are powerful influencers good & bad. I work to improve, empower and educate for more functional relationships. Children and teens often need an objective ear to help them with increasing pressures. Adults seeking support and problem-solving tools for relationships, career, and childhood-effects are also valued focus. This includes the effects of trauma and abuse.
(505) 715-4644 View (505) 715-4644
Photo of R Michael Westbay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
R Michael Westbay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87109  (Online Only)
Do you want to feel better, be more successful and grow more in your life? Do you want to take back your power? Do you want to create a relationship that is better then it ever was? The mission of my work is to help people to use their own strengths & inner resources, to create more possibilities and develop a plan to achieve these goals and dreams. Life can be filled with great sadness and great joy.
Do you want to feel better, be more successful and grow more in your life? Do you want to take back your power? Do you want to create a relationship that is better then it ever was? The mission of my work is to help people to use their own strengths & inner resources, to create more possibilities and develop a plan to achieve these goals and dreams. Life can be filled with great sadness and great joy.
(505) 234-1530 View (505) 234-1530
Photo of Marc Cottrell, Psychologist in Albuquerque, NM
Marc Cottrell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87108
Not accepting new clients
Veteran (enlisted) and veteran owned practice. I am a clinical psychologist with specialized education and experience treating PTSD, and the aftermath of domestic violence and interpersonal violence. I treat depression, anxiety, and the general funk we fall into when our personal and professional lives aren't as awesome as we would like. Whatever it is you bring, nothing is too big to fix. Experience working with veterans, state department, civilians in Pentagon and government agencies. Can work within need to protect security clearance.
Veteran (enlisted) and veteran owned practice. I am a clinical psychologist with specialized education and experience treating PTSD, and the aftermath of domestic violence and interpersonal violence. I treat depression, anxiety, and the general funk we fall into when our personal and professional lives aren't as awesome as we would like. Whatever it is you bring, nothing is too big to fix. Experience working with veterans, state department, civilians in Pentagon and government agencies. Can work within need to protect security clearance.
(206) 673-3812 View (206) 673-3812
Photo of Alegra Lark Roybal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
Alegra Lark Roybal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87109
Waitlist for new clients
I have spent most of my career working with survivors of violence, specifically sexual violence and family violence. I also have experience with those struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety and various other forms of trauma (genocide, cult/high demand religions.)
I have spent most of my career working with survivors of violence, specifically sexual violence and family violence. I also have experience with those struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety and various other forms of trauma (genocide, cult/high demand religions.)
(505) 591-5552 View (505) 591-5552
Photo of Diana Stearns, Marriage & Family Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
Diana Stearns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87112  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. Is there something keeping you from living a happy, balanced, peaceful life? Would you like to improve your relationships? Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, or stress? Have past traumas kept you from moving forward? Is it time to get some help? At Refuge Counseling, we are a shelter from the storm to keep you safe while you navigate life's difficulties. Change forces us to grow emotionally, psychologically, physically, and spiritually. Therapy provides the tools and space to help you change so you can live your best life.
Accepting new clients. Is there something keeping you from living a happy, balanced, peaceful life? Would you like to improve your relationships? Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, or stress? Have past traumas kept you from moving forward? Is it time to get some help? At Refuge Counseling, we are a shelter from the storm to keep you safe while you navigate life's difficulties. Change forces us to grow emotionally, psychologically, physically, and spiritually. Therapy provides the tools and space to help you change so you can live your best life.
(505) 431-6168 View (505) 431-6168
Photo of Jonathan Allison, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Jonathan Allison
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Jonathan has an eclectic approach to counseling, with his main influences being existential psychotherapy, holistic counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based counseling. He also regularly utilizes humanistic and psychodynamic approaches, the Gottman method, narrative therapy, person-centered counseling, systemic therapy, reality therapy, rational emotive therapy, and constructionist therapy. Jonathan received his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (BBA) in 2018 and his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA) from the University of New Mexico in 2021.
Jonathan has an eclectic approach to counseling, with his main influences being existential psychotherapy, holistic counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based counseling. He also regularly utilizes humanistic and psychodynamic approaches, the Gottman method, narrative therapy, person-centered counseling, systemic therapy, reality therapy, rational emotive therapy, and constructionist therapy. Jonathan received his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (BBA) in 2018 and his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA) from the University of New Mexico in 2021.
(505) 375-6592 View (505) 375-6592
Photo of Cottonwood Therapeutics, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
Cottonwood Therapeutics, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Individuals feel disconnected from their loved ones, their work and, most importantly, themselves when they experience trauma or abnormally high amounts of stress. They become anxious easily, they can be irritable, and they can relive traumatic events that can lead to life feeling completely unmanageable. Additionally, couples and families become 'stuck' when trauma, conflict, and other negative dynamics get in the way of vulnerability, communication, and the love that we crave from those close to us. Those caught in these painful patterns need support and the therapeutic process can be transformative.
Individuals feel disconnected from their loved ones, their work and, most importantly, themselves when they experience trauma or abnormally high amounts of stress. They become anxious easily, they can be irritable, and they can relive traumatic events that can lead to life feeling completely unmanageable. Additionally, couples and families become 'stuck' when trauma, conflict, and other negative dynamics get in the way of vulnerability, communication, and the love that we crave from those close to us. Those caught in these painful patterns need support and the therapeutic process can be transformative.
(505) 309-3906 View (505) 309-3906
Photo of Sheila Ciminera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
Sheila Ciminera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87108
Not accepting new clients
"To bear witness" is to listen, observe, and validate painful and/or traumatic experiences of others. It is an honor and a privilege to do this work, and a role I love! I specialize in working with trauma, addiction, body image, reintegration, and finding meaning. I also specialize in supporting other helpers and healers. My mission is to create a safe, non judgmental space for you to grow and achieve your goals.
"To bear witness" is to listen, observe, and validate painful and/or traumatic experiences of others. It is an honor and a privilege to do this work, and a role I love! I specialize in working with trauma, addiction, body image, reintegration, and finding meaning. I also specialize in supporting other helpers and healers. My mission is to create a safe, non judgmental space for you to grow and achieve your goals.
(505) 395-5706 View (505) 395-5706
Photo of Expressive Therapies Counseling , Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Expressive Therapies Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPCC, ERYT500, CIMHP, YACEP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87114
As a therapist integrating psychoanalytic frameworks, expressive arts therapy, and yoga, I offer clients a multifaceted approach to healing and self-discovery. By combining insights from psychoanalysis with the transformative power of creative expression and the mind-body connection fostered by yoga, I seek to offer clients a pathway to explore their inner worlds, release emotional blocks, and cultivate holistic well-being. Through this integrative approach, clients can gain deeper self-awareness, insight into unconscious patterns, and develop practical tools for managing stress, enhancing resilience, and improving relationships.
As a therapist integrating psychoanalytic frameworks, expressive arts therapy, and yoga, I offer clients a multifaceted approach to healing and self-discovery. By combining insights from psychoanalysis with the transformative power of creative expression and the mind-body connection fostered by yoga, I seek to offer clients a pathway to explore their inner worlds, release emotional blocks, and cultivate holistic well-being. Through this integrative approach, clients can gain deeper self-awareness, insight into unconscious patterns, and develop practical tools for managing stress, enhancing resilience, and improving relationships.
(505) 375-6903 View (505) 375-6903
Photo of Mikela Ferguson, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Mikela Ferguson
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87121
My name is Mikela Ferguson, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC) in New Mexico, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals from all walks of life and specialize in trauma informed care, using evidence-based approaches and attachment theory. I support my clients to address a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, life changes, and past trauma. I work with clients who are seeking peace and fulfillment in their lives but may be held back by the effects of early trauma.
My name is Mikela Ferguson, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC) in New Mexico, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals from all walks of life and specialize in trauma informed care, using evidence-based approaches and attachment theory. I support my clients to address a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, life changes, and past trauma. I work with clients who are seeking peace and fulfillment in their lives but may be held back by the effects of early trauma.
(505) 666-5762 View (505) 666-5762
Photo of K Bronson Elliott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
K Bronson Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87108
I approach therapy as a partnership where I serve as your guide. Think of our work together as training for your mental and emotional well-being. I'll teach you strategies and techniques, and while the effort will be yours, my support will be a constant you can depend on.
I approach therapy as a partnership where I serve as your guide. Think of our work together as training for your mental and emotional well-being. I'll teach you strategies and techniques, and while the effort will be yours, my support will be a constant you can depend on.
(505) 375-6928 View (505) 375-6928
Photo of Denise Roxanne Garcia, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Denise Roxanne Garcia
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87107
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC) and military veteran, my focus is to serve other military veterans and their families. Although serving the military community is my primary focus, I am certainly open and available to others seeking guidance and support. Whether you are dealing with the stress of a recent deployment, transitioning out of the military, having separation anxiety, communication/relationship issues, or dealing with PTSD, there is no need to navigate these life struggles on your own. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness and counseling can help.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC) and military veteran, my focus is to serve other military veterans and their families. Although serving the military community is my primary focus, I am certainly open and available to others seeking guidance and support. Whether you are dealing with the stress of a recent deployment, transitioning out of the military, having separation anxiety, communication/relationship issues, or dealing with PTSD, there is no need to navigate these life struggles on your own. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness and counseling can help.
(505) 516-3577 View (505) 516-3577
Photo of Cottonwood Counseling, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Cottonwood Counseling
Counselor, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87120
Are you or your child feeling sad, worried, anxious, or having trouble sleeping? Have you been feeling irritable, disconnected, or hopeless? Are you having trouble concentrating, can’t make decisions, & sometimes feel like you can’t breathe? Are you suffering from loss? We can help you have relief from these symptoms. We are a trauma focused counseling group. We offer knowledgeable, nurturing, and effective treatment for trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and grief.
Are you or your child feeling sad, worried, anxious, or having trouble sleeping? Have you been feeling irritable, disconnected, or hopeless? Are you having trouble concentrating, can’t make decisions, & sometimes feel like you can’t breathe? Are you suffering from loss? We can help you have relief from these symptoms. We are a trauma focused counseling group. We offer knowledgeable, nurturing, and effective treatment for trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and grief.
(505) 560-2891 View (505) 560-2891
Photo of Lauren Gaunt, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Lauren Gaunt
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87113
Waitlist for new clients
I am a graduate of the Counselor Education program at the University of New Mexico and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. My clinical interests include eating disorder treatment, fat liberation and body acceptance, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My counseling approach is largely informed by social constructionist theory, which emphasizes the influence of sociocultural contexts on individual wellness and identity. I believe that clients are experts in their own lives, and that my role as a counselor is to help clients to explore their perspectives and the contexts which have shaped them.
I am a graduate of the Counselor Education program at the University of New Mexico and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. My clinical interests include eating disorder treatment, fat liberation and body acceptance, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My counseling approach is largely informed by social constructionist theory, which emphasizes the influence of sociocultural contexts on individual wellness and identity. I believe that clients are experts in their own lives, and that my role as a counselor is to help clients to explore their perspectives and the contexts which have shaped them.
(505) 588-7233 View (505) 588-7233
Photo of Tess Kim, Counselor in Albuquerque, NM
Tess Kim
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87105
Hello, my name is Tess Kim, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I was born and raised in S. Korea and immigrated to US at the age of 18 years old. I understand changes can be challenging, and difficult experiences in life can bring up feelings of anxiety, depression, or lack of direction, it can be hard to know what to do. With compassion and knowledge, I will support you to work through issues while identifying your inner strengths to be a happier and healthier version of you. I describe myself as compassionate and understanding. I look forward to taking the journey of healing with you.
Hello, my name is Tess Kim, and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor. I was born and raised in S. Korea and immigrated to US at the age of 18 years old. I understand changes can be challenging, and difficult experiences in life can bring up feelings of anxiety, depression, or lack of direction, it can be hard to know what to do. With compassion and knowledge, I will support you to work through issues while identifying your inner strengths to be a happier and healthier version of you. I describe myself as compassionate and understanding. I look forward to taking the journey of healing with you.
(505) 657-2878 View (505) 657-2878
Photo of 505 Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Albuquerque, NM
505 Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LSAA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87111
You’re fighting for your marriage and relationship. You’re doing everything you can to connect with your partner, but they don’t seem to open up. You’re starting to feel resentful that you aren’t living the life you want. You’re in a cycle of conflict and fighting about not being understood, feeling overwhelmed, and taking things personally. Maybe you have kids that you want to raise together in a happy home, and you want this relationship to work. We see you, we understand where you’re at, and you’re not alone anymore. Let's work together to start healing your relationship and family.
You’re fighting for your marriage and relationship. You’re doing everything you can to connect with your partner, but they don’t seem to open up. You’re starting to feel resentful that you aren’t living the life you want. You’re in a cycle of conflict and fighting about not being understood, feeling overwhelmed, and taking things personally. Maybe you have kids that you want to raise together in a happy home, and you want this relationship to work. We see you, we understand where you’re at, and you’re not alone anymore. Let's work together to start healing your relationship and family.
(505) 337-3827 View (505) 337-3827

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Albuquerque, NM

900+

Average cost per session

$129

Therapists in Albuquerque, NM who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
86% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
73% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Coping Skills
66% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Presbyterian
79% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Medicaid

How Therapists in Albuquerque, NM see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Albuquerque?

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.