Photo of Dawn Mcilwaine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Dawn Mcilwaine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I have over 20 years of experience working in behavioral health outpatient settings utilizing advanced therapeutic interventions to help those with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder as well as those struggling with substance use issues.
I have over 20 years of experience working in behavioral health outpatient settings utilizing advanced therapeutic interventions to help those with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder as well as those struggling with substance use issues.
(267) 833-4032 View (267) 833-4032
Photo of Toms River Center for Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Toms River Center for Marriage and Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
The Center for Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues,grief therapy,stress management, victims of spousal abuse, chronic and terminal illness and dealing with life stage transitions. In addition to Toms River, our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Piscataway and Princeton. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers and substance abuse specialists.
The Center for Marriage and Family Therapy has five offices throughout central New Jersey. Jackie Held, Karen Spiler and Jill Stein founded the Center in 1984. We refer to a large network of affiliated therapists whose specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, depression, separation and divorce, gay and lesbian issues,grief therapy,stress management, victims of spousal abuse, chronic and terminal illness and dealing with life stage transitions. In addition to Toms River, our offices are in Matawan, Freehold, Piscataway and Princeton. Our network includes licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers and substance abuse specialists.
(732) 481-1863 x301 View (732) 481-1863 x301
Photo of Alexia Totoro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Alexia Totoro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Greetings, I'm Alexia Totoro, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over a decade of involvement in mental and behavioral health. Throughout my journey, I've accumulated diverse experiences driven by my passion for empowering individuals to discover their truest selves.
Greetings, I'm Alexia Totoro, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over a decade of involvement in mental and behavioral health. Throughout my journey, I've accumulated diverse experiences driven by my passion for empowering individuals to discover their truest selves.
(848) 216-7301 View (848) 216-7301
Photo of Lyndsie Johnson, Counselor in 08753, NJ
Lyndsie Johnson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hello there! I'm Lyndsie Johnson, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a decade of experience spanning various levels of care, from outpatient settings to Partial Hospitalization Programs. Employing a Cognitive Behavioral approach, we'll collaborate to delve into your relationship with your emotions, examine the thought patterns affecting decision-making, and address how stress may manifest in your body. Additionally, we'll integrate mindfulness and soothing techniques to facilitate a stronger mind-body connection.
Hello there! I'm Lyndsie Johnson, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a decade of experience spanning various levels of care, from outpatient settings to Partial Hospitalization Programs. Employing a Cognitive Behavioral approach, we'll collaborate to delve into your relationship with your emotions, examine the thought patterns affecting decision-making, and address how stress may manifest in your body. Additionally, we'll integrate mindfulness and soothing techniques to facilitate a stronger mind-body connection.
(856) 329-7868 View (856) 329-7868
Photo of Christopher James Schneider, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Christopher James Schneider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Have you been struggling with your self esteem? Do you feel like you lack control in your life and have been just "going through the motions"? Perhaps you feel like your unable to handle life transitions or difficult conversations with people? This can be very frustrating and make us feel stuck in a never ending cycle. Many people accept this as the way it will always be and cannot see a way out.
Have you been struggling with your self esteem? Do you feel like you lack control in your life and have been just "going through the motions"? Perhaps you feel like your unable to handle life transitions or difficult conversations with people? This can be very frustrating and make us feel stuck in a never ending cycle. Many people accept this as the way it will always be and cannot see a way out.
(732) 347-7735 View (732) 347-7735
Photo of Kiara Lambertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Kiara Lambertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
As a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience, I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. My commitment to paying it forward and leading with kindness drives my passion for helping others. I've worked extensively with terminally ill clients, families, adults, children, and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and various other challenges. My compassionate approach and attentive listening skills enable me to support those in need. Employing a range of modalities and therapies, I facilitate the healing process for my clients.
As a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience, I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. My commitment to paying it forward and leading with kindness drives my passion for helping others. I've worked extensively with terminally ill clients, families, adults, children, and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and various other challenges. My compassionate approach and attentive listening skills enable me to support those in need. Employing a range of modalities and therapies, I facilitate the healing process for my clients.
(848) 283-6453 View (848) 283-6453
Photo of Charles W Graff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Charles W Graff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Charles Graff, and I'm an LCSW here in New Jersey with 10 years of experience in the field. Thanks for stopping by my profile. Here is a little about me to help you decide if I might be a good fit. I received my MSW from Rutgers University and have been working in the mental health field for almost a decade. My only goal as a therapist is to help you through the difficult time you would like some help with, and to make you feel as comfortable, relaxed and as in control of your future as I can.
Hi there! My name is Charles Graff, and I'm an LCSW here in New Jersey with 10 years of experience in the field. Thanks for stopping by my profile. Here is a little about me to help you decide if I might be a good fit. I received my MSW from Rutgers University and have been working in the mental health field for almost a decade. My only goal as a therapist is to help you through the difficult time you would like some help with, and to make you feel as comfortable, relaxed and as in control of your future as I can.
(732) 800-5591 View (732) 800-5591
Photo of Swan Therapy Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Swan Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753
If you're looking for help with your child/teenager, family dynamic or you yourself, you've come to the right place! We also provide adult therapy and couples therapy. At Swan Therapy Group, we strive on helping everyone in the community one family at a time, on the most personalized basis that we can. Through empathy and support we can provide you or your family the tools to navigate through any life challenges that come your way in a positive and healthy manner. Please visit our website to see each of our individualized profiles!
If you're looking for help with your child/teenager, family dynamic or you yourself, you've come to the right place! We also provide adult therapy and couples therapy. At Swan Therapy Group, we strive on helping everyone in the community one family at a time, on the most personalized basis that we can. Through empathy and support we can provide you or your family the tools to navigate through any life challenges that come your way in a positive and healthy manner. Please visit our website to see each of our individualized profiles!
(732) 573-6968 View (732) 573-6968
Photo of Ebony Yelder, Counselor in 08753, NJ
Ebony Yelder
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Well done on embarking on this meaningful and brave journey towards self-care. I'm Ebony Yelder (she/her/hers), a Licensed Professional Counselor with over two decades of experience offering counseling and psychiatric services. Throughout my career, I've served in diverse environments such as behavioral health hospitals, outpatient clinics, emergency rooms, and in-home counseling, including providing support for military personnel and their families through the Department of Defense. My dedication lies in aiding individuals in navigating both everyday struggles and intricate mental health issues.
Well done on embarking on this meaningful and brave journey towards self-care. I'm Ebony Yelder (she/her/hers), a Licensed Professional Counselor with over two decades of experience offering counseling and psychiatric services. Throughout my career, I've served in diverse environments such as behavioral health hospitals, outpatient clinics, emergency rooms, and in-home counseling, including providing support for military personnel and their families through the Department of Defense. My dedication lies in aiding individuals in navigating both everyday struggles and intricate mental health issues.
(856) 746-6613 View (856) 746-6613
Photo of Christina McCormack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Christina McCormack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, VAWC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I know sometimes the journey to finding help may be bumpy. So give yourself some props for making it here. At times we all face struggles internal, external, and often a combination of both. I have observed that often we can feel stuck from these experiences, even if we’ve tried to move on from them. That is because we need a little guidance to process and buff out the imprint that remains in our system. It is my hope to help facilitate a path to finding more ease, feeling better, and move towards the life you want.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I know sometimes the journey to finding help may be bumpy. So give yourself some props for making it here. At times we all face struggles internal, external, and often a combination of both. I have observed that often we can feel stuck from these experiences, even if we’ve tried to move on from them. That is because we need a little guidance to process and buff out the imprint that remains in our system. It is my hope to help facilitate a path to finding more ease, feeling better, and move towards the life you want.
(732) 795-5993 View (732) 795-5993
Photo of Levin Virtual Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Levin Virtual Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
There are three essential things that everyone needs: 1) to belong and be loved, 2) to be productive & 3) to have a meaningful life. If you are having difficulty in any of these areas, you are not alone! Life can be difficult or overwhelming at times and we can all use a little guidance and inspiration. I believe that you have the power to make your life richer and more fulfilling. I'm here to help you find a personalized plan for success.
There are three essential things that everyone needs: 1) to belong and be loved, 2) to be productive & 3) to have a meaningful life. If you are having difficulty in any of these areas, you are not alone! Life can be difficult or overwhelming at times and we can all use a little guidance and inspiration. I believe that you have the power to make your life richer and more fulfilling. I'm here to help you find a personalized plan for success.
(732) 385-3420 View (732) 385-3420
Photo of Megan Shane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Megan Shane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I'm Megan Shane, holding licenses as both a Clinical Social Worker and Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My background spans years of assisting adults and families in navigating mental health and addiction challenges. From inpatient to various outpatient settings, I've gained diverse experience. Whether you're grappling with relationship difficulties, recurring depression or anxiety, or seeking behavioral changes like managing substance use, I aim to empower you. Together, we'll cultivate skills to regulate episodes, identify triggers, and express thoughts and emotions surrounding past and present experiences.
I'm Megan Shane, holding licenses as both a Clinical Social Worker and Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My background spans years of assisting adults and families in navigating mental health and addiction challenges. From inpatient to various outpatient settings, I've gained diverse experience. Whether you're grappling with relationship difficulties, recurring depression or anxiety, or seeking behavioral changes like managing substance use, I aim to empower you. Together, we'll cultivate skills to regulate episodes, identify triggers, and express thoughts and emotions surrounding past and present experiences.
(848) 305-1186 View (848) 305-1186
Photo of Kristin Caccavale, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Kristin Caccavale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753  (Online Only)
Even when we have tremendous anxiety and pain, the strength and resilience we desire already reside within us. During times of stress, grief or uncertainty, it is common to forget this and to adopt maladaptive styles of coping and communicating that tend to deepen our distress. Sometimes we fall back into negative thinking based on faulty core beliefs about ourselves and the world. I will hold space for you with empathy and non-judgment. You will be seen, you will be heard, and you will be supported in your growth.
Even when we have tremendous anxiety and pain, the strength and resilience we desire already reside within us. During times of stress, grief or uncertainty, it is common to forget this and to adopt maladaptive styles of coping and communicating that tend to deepen our distress. Sometimes we fall back into negative thinking based on faulty core beliefs about ourselves and the world. I will hold space for you with empathy and non-judgment. You will be seen, you will be heard, and you will be supported in your growth.
(973) 313-5426 View (973) 313-5426
Photo of Tahisa Jamison, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Tahisa Jamison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
With over 10 years in the field, I strongly advocate for prioritizing mental health as a cornerstone for happiness and stability in life. My specialization lies in working with individuals, families, and couples seeking to cultivate positive communication, connection with others, and establish healthy boundaries. Throughout my practice, I've assisted clients with a diverse array of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, social anxiety, and mood disorders. As your counselor, you can count on me to provide a nonjudgmental, compassionate, and empathetic approach.
With over 10 years in the field, I strongly advocate for prioritizing mental health as a cornerstone for happiness and stability in life. My specialization lies in working with individuals, families, and couples seeking to cultivate positive communication, connection with others, and establish healthy boundaries. Throughout my practice, I've assisted clients with a diverse array of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, social anxiety, and mood disorders. As your counselor, you can count on me to provide a nonjudgmental, compassionate, and empathetic approach.
(848) 301-2099 View (848) 301-2099
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy in 08753, NJ
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(848) 600-6631 View (848) 600-6631
Photo of Thomas McCarthy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 08753, NJ
Thomas McCarthy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hello, I'm Tom McCarthy, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of diverse experience across various settings, such as group homes, correctional facilities, and outpatient IOP programs. My specialties include anxiety and OCD, depression, adjustment issues, and anger management. I deeply value the unique bond between a counselor and client. My relaxed demeanor enables me to connect effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and facing various mental health challenges. I'm adept at adapting my approach to be serious, challenging, or even humorous when necessary.
Hello, I'm Tom McCarthy, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of diverse experience across various settings, such as group homes, correctional facilities, and outpatient IOP programs. My specialties include anxiety and OCD, depression, adjustment issues, and anger management. I deeply value the unique bond between a counselor and client. My relaxed demeanor enables me to connect effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and facing various mental health challenges. I'm adept at adapting my approach to be serious, challenging, or even humorous when necessary.
(848) 280-7215 x1 View (848) 280-7215 x1
Photo of Lesley Petersen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Lesley Petersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Lesley completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Monmouth University. She provides services to clients with strengths-based therapy (SBT), person-centered therapy (PCT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) approaches. Lesley also prides herself on ensuring an open, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to guide her clients toward their therapeutic goals.
Lesley completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Monmouth University. She provides services to clients with strengths-based therapy (SBT), person-centered therapy (PCT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) approaches. Lesley also prides herself on ensuring an open, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to guide her clients toward their therapeutic goals.
(848) 301-2151 View (848) 301-2151
Photo of Shannon Burdick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Shannon Burdick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Hello! I'm Shannon Burdick, LCSW, and I appreciate your interest in therapy with me. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I obtained my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work from Rutgers University. Throughout my career, I've served in numerous roles, including individual and group therapy, adult and adolescent PHP, substance use disorder treatment programs, and hospital and primary care settings. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. My objective is to offer a secure environment where you can freely express yourself and receive compassionate understanding.
Hello! I'm Shannon Burdick, LCSW, and I appreciate your interest in therapy with me. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I obtained my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work from Rutgers University. Throughout my career, I've served in numerous roles, including individual and group therapy, adult and adolescent PHP, substance use disorder treatment programs, and hospital and primary care settings. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations of all ages and cultural backgrounds. My objective is to offer a secure environment where you can freely express yourself and receive compassionate understanding.
(848) 999-3277 View (848) 999-3277
Photo of Eileen Carmona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Eileen Carmona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Greetings, I'm Eileen Carmona, a licensed clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of diverse experience. From substance use disorder treatment centers to providing in-home therapy for at-risk youth, I've assisted clients in managing anxiety, stress, depression, and more. Together, we'll craft a plan and set achievable goals for a balanced life. Your comfort and safety are paramount in our sessions. Over time, we'll address life's challenges and cultivate a positive perspective on problem-solving. Together, we can overcome obstacles and thrive!
Greetings, I'm Eileen Carmona, a licensed clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of diverse experience. From substance use disorder treatment centers to providing in-home therapy for at-risk youth, I've assisted clients in managing anxiety, stress, depression, and more. Together, we'll craft a plan and set achievable goals for a balanced life. Your comfort and safety are paramount in our sessions. Over time, we'll address life's challenges and cultivate a positive perspective on problem-solving. Together, we can overcome obstacles and thrive!
(848) 283-6549 View (848) 283-6549
Photo of Erin Parks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
Erin Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I earned my Bachelor's degree in Social Work from GCC in 1987, followed by a Masters in Clinical Social Work from NYU in 1996. Shortly after, I underwent specialized training at Yale University School of Medicine’s Child Study Center. Furthermore, I am licensed to address Substance Abuse Disorders and possess extensive experience in handling trauma, mental health disorders, and relationship issues over many years.
I earned my Bachelor's degree in Social Work from GCC in 1987, followed by a Masters in Clinical Social Work from NYU in 1996. Shortly after, I underwent specialized training at Yale University School of Medicine’s Child Study Center. Furthermore, I am licensed to address Substance Abuse Disorders and possess extensive experience in handling trauma, mental health disorders, and relationship issues over many years.
(848) 281-3850 x1 View (848) 281-3850 x1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 08753

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 08753 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
92% Depression
84% Self Esteem
80% Coping Skills
78% Relationship Issues
78% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 08753 see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 08753?

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.