Therapists in Bellwood, IL

Photo of Dr. Tiffany Michele Bellamy, PsyD, LCPC
Dr. Tiffany Michele Bellamy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bellwood, IL 60104  (Online Only)
"Life is full of challenges... it's how you respond to them that makes the difference." - Anonymous No one is exempt from life's challenges, but you don't have to face them alone. Whether you're dealing with personal or familial mental illness, feeling sad, unsure of what's next, or like you just can't cope with some of life's struggles, contact me and together we can work towards you reaching your "better!"
"Life is full of challenges... it's how you respond to them that makes the difference." - Anonymous No one is exempt from life's challenges, but you don't have to face them alone. Whether you're dealing with personal or familial mental illness, feeling sad, unsure of what's next, or like you just can't cope with some of life's struggles, contact me and together we can work towards you reaching your "better!"
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Photo of Micaela Noelle Bates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Micaela Noelle Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellwood, IL 60104
Congratulations on taking the difficult, but brave, step to research options for support! I am here to act as a GPS on your journey to self actualization - whether you currently find yourself in the packing stage, are determining your destination, or you're looking to discover "how did I end up here?' My passion and my training work to aid you in defining your truths and walking boldly in them. Wellness is achieved when you can look at your worn-out shoes and esteem them for getting you this far instead of forever cursing the road that damaged them. Be well.
Congratulations on taking the difficult, but brave, step to research options for support! I am here to act as a GPS on your journey to self actualization - whether you currently find yourself in the packing stage, are determining your destination, or you're looking to discover "how did I end up here?' My passion and my training work to aid you in defining your truths and walking boldly in them. Wellness is achieved when you can look at your worn-out shoes and esteem them for getting you this far instead of forever cursing the road that damaged them. Be well.
(708) 377-9663 View (708) 377-9663
Photo of Kayla Crump, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kayla Crump
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Bellwood, IL 60104
One of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story! I believe that everyone should feel seen, heard, and affirmed! It is incredibly natural to feel overwhelmed in our present world. Yet, life is way too short to surrender to unhealthy relationships, self-esteem issues, rough life transitions, trauma, grief, anger, depression, or anxiety… to name a few. I strive to help you achieve whatever solutions and life change you are looking for while finding purpose in all your life areas and experiencing yourself in new ways. I am dedicated to keeping couples healthy, relationships loving, and individuals balanced.
One of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story! I believe that everyone should feel seen, heard, and affirmed! It is incredibly natural to feel overwhelmed in our present world. Yet, life is way too short to surrender to unhealthy relationships, self-esteem issues, rough life transitions, trauma, grief, anger, depression, or anxiety… to name a few. I strive to help you achieve whatever solutions and life change you are looking for while finding purpose in all your life areas and experiencing yourself in new ways. I am dedicated to keeping couples healthy, relationships loving, and individuals balanced.
(312) 847-3559 View (312) 847-3559
Photo of Latechia Hester, NCC, LCPC, CRADC, Counselor
Latechia Hester
Counselor, NCC, LCPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
Bellwood, IL 60104
Metamorphosis is the process of change into something adult, mature, and breathtaking! I'd like to think that I have been entrusted by my clients to help them transition into living a better quality of life, so they may spread their wings and fly! My goal is to uplift, empower, teach, and motivate those who struggle to work toward living a healthier and happier lifestyle.
Metamorphosis is the process of change into something adult, mature, and breathtaking! I'd like to think that I have been entrusted by my clients to help them transition into living a better quality of life, so they may spread their wings and fly! My goal is to uplift, empower, teach, and motivate those who struggle to work toward living a healthier and happier lifestyle.
(630) 394-8368 View (630) 394-8368
Photo of Tamika Hall, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamika Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellwood, IL 60104  (Online Only)
I am a firm believer that everyone should be given the opportunity to thrive and heal. It is my passion to make mental health services accessible to people of color and underserved individuals. As a psychotherapist of color, I offer racially and culturally informed therapy to help you grow to become the best version of yourself. I take a collaborative, strengths-based approach, with assisting and supporting you to be the author of your own life. I have five plus years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and older adults in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and nonprofit.
I am a firm believer that everyone should be given the opportunity to thrive and heal. It is my passion to make mental health services accessible to people of color and underserved individuals. As a psychotherapist of color, I offer racially and culturally informed therapy to help you grow to become the best version of yourself. I take a collaborative, strengths-based approach, with assisting and supporting you to be the author of your own life. I have five plus years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and older adults in various settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and nonprofit.
(847) 499-1019 View (847) 499-1019
Photo of Zachary Loveland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zachary Loveland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellwood, IL 60104
As a therapist, I aim to meet my clients where they are and provide guidance and skill development that allows them to meet their goals. I work with substance use, addiction, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief and loss, suicidality, and expected and unexpected life changes. I am here to listen and support you if you need to find hope or are struggling with life's challenges.
As a therapist, I aim to meet my clients where they are and provide guidance and skill development that allows them to meet their goals. I work with substance use, addiction, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief and loss, suicidality, and expected and unexpected life changes. I am here to listen and support you if you need to find hope or are struggling with life's challenges.
(773) 661-4671 View (773) 661-4671

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristin Lee Nielsen, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristin Lee Nielsen
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Dr. Nielsen, and I believe that each individual is unique as is their experience of themselves. In my work, I accompany each client on a journey to discover a greater understanding of who they are while reducing suffering and forging a more meaningful quality of life. It is from a humanistic and psychodynamic foundation of authenticity, acceptance, and nonjudgment that I approach my conceptualization of and work with each client. Deep listening and respect for the individual’s well-being as well as their problems allow me to develop strong working relationships. Therefore, I approach each session with great warmth and
Hi, I’m Dr. Nielsen, and I believe that each individual is unique as is their experience of themselves. In my work, I accompany each client on a journey to discover a greater understanding of who they are while reducing suffering and forging a more meaningful quality of life. It is from a humanistic and psychodynamic foundation of authenticity, acceptance, and nonjudgment that I approach my conceptualization of and work with each client. Deep listening and respect for the individual’s well-being as well as their problems allow me to develop strong working relationships. Therefore, I approach each session with great warmth and
(312) 784-9436 View (312) 784-9436
Photo of Daniel Ference - Daniel Ference, MA LCPC, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Daniel Ference, MA LCPC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westchester, IL 60154
My goal as a therapist is to help you prioritize yourself in a way that leads to growth and a life worth celebrating. Growth can be as straightforward as learning to cope with a difficult situation, or as complex as charting a brand new life for yourself. Together, we will work to uncover your unfulfilled needs, the related obstacles, and any thoughts and perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, my hope and the focus of our work together is to help you make meaningful changes that are good for you, and those around you.
My goal as a therapist is to help you prioritize yourself in a way that leads to growth and a life worth celebrating. Growth can be as straightforward as learning to cope with a difficult situation, or as complex as charting a brand new life for yourself. Together, we will work to uncover your unfulfilled needs, the related obstacles, and any thoughts and perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, my hope and the focus of our work together is to help you make meaningful changes that are good for you, and those around you.
(708) 315-2658 View (708) 315-2658
Photo of Pam Baldinelli, MA, LCPC, SEP, Counselor
Pam Baldinelli
Counselor, MA, LCPC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westchester, IL 60154  (Online Only)
Coping with life challenges can be a difficult journey to navigate and each of us does so in our own unique way. Some of these experiences happen in moments yet leave an impact for a lifetime. Whether you are dealing with a traumatic experience, depression, anxiety or difficulty adjusting to changes in your life, it can get in the way of your ability to function in healthy ways. Having a sense of feeling stuck, loneliness or fear are all to common experiences and having a skilled therapist can guide you towards living a more satisfying life. My hope is to guide my clients to a deeper understanding of their thoughts and emotions.
Coping with life challenges can be a difficult journey to navigate and each of us does so in our own unique way. Some of these experiences happen in moments yet leave an impact for a lifetime. Whether you are dealing with a traumatic experience, depression, anxiety or difficulty adjusting to changes in your life, it can get in the way of your ability to function in healthy ways. Having a sense of feeling stuck, loneliness or fear are all to common experiences and having a skilled therapist can guide you towards living a more satisfying life. My hope is to guide my clients to a deeper understanding of their thoughts and emotions.
(708) 628-7397 View (708) 628-7397
Photo of Tamara Denton, EdD, LCPC, CADC, CAMS, SAP
Tamara Denton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, CADC, CAMS, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maywood, IL 60153
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Anger Management Specialist and Qualified Substance Abuse Professional.
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Anger Management Specialist and Qualified Substance Abuse Professional.
(708) 375-1624 View (708) 375-1624
Photo of Christina Cornejo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Cornejo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westchester, IL 60154
Waitlist for new clients
I offer supportive counseling to adults, children, and families to help improve mental health and overall well-being. With adults, I use a holistic approach to build on individual strengths and capacity for change in improving overall mental health and functioning.
I offer supportive counseling to adults, children, and families to help improve mental health and overall well-being. With adults, I use a holistic approach to build on individual strengths and capacity for change in improving overall mental health and functioning.
(331) 231-2435 View (331) 231-2435
Photo of Dr. Eiliana Silva, LCPC, EdD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Eiliana Silva
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, EdD
Verified Verified
Melrose Park, IL 60160
Hello, I'm Dr. Eiliana! I am happy you're here. I’m passionate about working with truama, anxiety, depression, grief + loss, relationship concerns, and self-esteem. I have learned that many of us are dealing with some sort of trauma in our lives, whether big or small. Trauma can have lasting effects that negatively impact your everyday life. For example, trauma may leave you feeling anxious, depressed, or with low self-esteem. It may also be impacting your ability to maintain healthy relationships. What is trauma? Trauma includes the more obvious, stressful and overwhelming events in our lives that we are all familiar with.
Hello, I'm Dr. Eiliana! I am happy you're here. I’m passionate about working with truama, anxiety, depression, grief + loss, relationship concerns, and self-esteem. I have learned that many of us are dealing with some sort of trauma in our lives, whether big or small. Trauma can have lasting effects that negatively impact your everyday life. For example, trauma may leave you feeling anxious, depressed, or with low self-esteem. It may also be impacting your ability to maintain healthy relationships. What is trauma? Trauma includes the more obvious, stressful and overwhelming events in our lives that we are all familiar with.
(847) 499-2180 View (847) 499-2180
Photo of Dr. Erica Wade, PhD, LCPC, ACS, BC-TMH, CIMHP, Counselor
Dr. Erica Wade
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, ACS, BC-TMH, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154  (Online Only)
Do you need support and a non-judgmental sounding board to navigate life, career, and relationships? Do you find yourself second-guessing decisions, procrastinating on taking action, and remaining stagnant even though you have big dreams you’d like to fulfill? Is imposter syndrome overshadowing your strides and accomplishments? Allow me to assist you on your holistic wellness journey where I can help you to explore mindsets that are blocking you from living your very best life. To request a Free consultation appointment, feel free to call or email me. I look forward to working with you!
Do you need support and a non-judgmental sounding board to navigate life, career, and relationships? Do you find yourself second-guessing decisions, procrastinating on taking action, and remaining stagnant even though you have big dreams you’d like to fulfill? Is imposter syndrome overshadowing your strides and accomplishments? Allow me to assist you on your holistic wellness journey where I can help you to explore mindsets that are blocking you from living your very best life. To request a Free consultation appointment, feel free to call or email me. I look forward to working with you!
(312) 262-5387 View (312) 262-5387
Photo of Julie McDevitt- McDevitt- Telehealth, LCPC, CSAT, Coach, Counselor
Julie McDevitt- McDevitt- Telehealth
Counselor, LCPC, CSAT, Coach
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Welcome to the first day of change. Seeking help is the first day where change is possible because you are already doing something different, which is acknowledging you need help. 20 years ago I was in your same position. I walked into my first AA where I was ready to get serious about recovery. As of April 2023, I will celebrate 20 years sober and believe in the abstinence model of change. Because it works once you are ready to take back control over your life. Of course, there is always the option to keep digging - but let me tell you, climbing is much more satisfying.
Welcome to the first day of change. Seeking help is the first day where change is possible because you are already doing something different, which is acknowledging you need help. 20 years ago I was in your same position. I walked into my first AA where I was ready to get serious about recovery. As of April 2023, I will celebrate 20 years sober and believe in the abstinence model of change. Because it works once you are ready to take back control over your life. Of course, there is always the option to keep digging - but let me tell you, climbing is much more satisfying.
(630) 755-6260 View (630) 755-6260
Photo of Michael Maka, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Maka
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154
I am an empathetic therapist who believes that each session can be utilized as a vehicle for personal growth. Within the therapeutic relationship, I place an emphasis on exploring past experiences that have an influence upon the present, along with navigating through relational dynamics that become present during the therapeutic hour. Focusing on these areas leads to a deeper understanding and awareness of one’s own thoughts and feelings, while helping to resolve the influence of troubling past experiences on the present.
I am an empathetic therapist who believes that each session can be utilized as a vehicle for personal growth. Within the therapeutic relationship, I place an emphasis on exploring past experiences that have an influence upon the present, along with navigating through relational dynamics that become present during the therapeutic hour. Focusing on these areas leads to a deeper understanding and awareness of one’s own thoughts and feelings, while helping to resolve the influence of troubling past experiences on the present.
(872) 704-8600 View (872) 704-8600
Photo of Carrie Steiner - First Responders Wellness Center, PsyD, Psychologist
First Responders Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
We solely see first responders, ER staff, and veterans at the FRWC. Being a former Chicago Police Officer for 13 years, I understand the unique needs of first responders and developed the center to help those who protect us. We see first responders due to trauma, crisis, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, job-related stress, suicide, etc. We also understand how there are concerns about engaging in therapy services and protecting your job. We ensure that you will have privacy and confidentiality. We have a separate entrance and exit to maintain confidentiality.
We solely see first responders, ER staff, and veterans at the FRWC. Being a former Chicago Police Officer for 13 years, I understand the unique needs of first responders and developed the center to help those who protect us. We see first responders due to trauma, crisis, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, job-related stress, suicide, etc. We also understand how there are concerns about engaging in therapy services and protecting your job. We ensure that you will have privacy and confidentiality. We have a separate entrance and exit to maintain confidentiality.
(630) 883-0439 View (630) 883-0439
Photo of Rachel Lantagne, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Lantagne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Riverside, IL 60546  (Online Only)
The decision to start therapy can feel intimidating. It can also lead to profound growth and benefits that impact all aspects of your life. Choosing the right therapist is the first step in this process. It's important to find someone who you feel you can trust and who can provide you with the understanding and support that is right for you. One of my goals as a therapist is to create a collaborative environment in which we can safely explore, and make meaning from, life experiences.
The decision to start therapy can feel intimidating. It can also lead to profound growth and benefits that impact all aspects of your life. Choosing the right therapist is the first step in this process. It's important to find someone who you feel you can trust and who can provide you with the understanding and support that is right for you. One of my goals as a therapist is to create a collaborative environment in which we can safely explore, and make meaning from, life experiences.
(708) 274-4101 View (708) 274-4101
Photo of Julie A Peterson, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie A Peterson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westchester, IL 60154
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
Dr. Peterson is a licensed clinical psychologist. In her therapy and testing work with clients, she places a large emphasis on support in addition to symptom reduction. She thoughtfully integrates perspectives from Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Adlerian theory to assist clients through discouragements in their lives that may cause them to feel stuck in life transitions. Her therapeutic interventions encourage the client's assets and creativity to empower his or her ability to enhance every aspect of his or her life. Dr. Peterson also provides psychological testing services as needed.
(847) 802-4058 View (847) 802-4058
Photo of Diana Kopicki, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Kopicki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Melrose Park, IL 60160
As a Latina therapist, I bring cultural sensitivity and understanding to our sessions, providing an environment where you can fully express yourself. I received a Master’s in Community Counseling from Loyola University. The foundation of my work is rooted in a person-centered approach: you get to take the lead in your sessions and I serve as your guide. Drawing from my expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I provide support in symptom reduction while fostering personal growth.
As a Latina therapist, I bring cultural sensitivity and understanding to our sessions, providing an environment where you can fully express yourself. I received a Master’s in Community Counseling from Loyola University. The foundation of my work is rooted in a person-centered approach: you get to take the lead in your sessions and I serve as your guide. Drawing from my expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I provide support in symptom reduction while fostering personal growth.
(708) 249-3513 View (708) 249-3513
Photo of Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree, MAAT, ATR, LCPC, EMDR
Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MAAT, ATR, LCPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
(872) 266-7949 View (872) 266-7949

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bellwood, IL

< 10

Therapists in Bellwood, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Family Conflict
100% Coping Skills
100% Self Esteem
83% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Aetna

How Therapists in Bellwood, IL see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bellwood?

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.