Therapists in Harrisburg, PA

Photo of Gina M Bowers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Gina M Bowers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
Let's explore ways we can get you back on the road to your success. Life gives us ups & downs & bumps along the way. How you choose to react may determine your future. These are opportunities to learn about ourselves & grow from these experiences. We may need help clarifying & identifying what the lesson might be. My approach is to help you learn how to cope & adjust to them in a supportive space. Our time together may involve a variety of approaches, depending on your needs & preferences. Humanistic/Client-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness-based, & Reality Therapy, would be the approaches I'm likely to explore with you.
Let's explore ways we can get you back on the road to your success. Life gives us ups & downs & bumps along the way. How you choose to react may determine your future. These are opportunities to learn about ourselves & grow from these experiences. We may need help clarifying & identifying what the lesson might be. My approach is to help you learn how to cope & adjust to them in a supportive space. Our time together may involve a variety of approaches, depending on your needs & preferences. Humanistic/Client-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness-based, & Reality Therapy, would be the approaches I'm likely to explore with you.
(717) 915-5368 View (717) 915-5368
Photo of Alexandria L Jones ( Holistic Sex And Relationship Therapist), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Alexandria L Jones ( Holistic Sex And Relationship Therapist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, KAP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Welcome to RHS, I hold a Master of Social Work Degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. Currently specializing in Sex and Relationship Therapy, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Family systems therapy, and a wide variety of mindfulness-based holistic clinical approaches. I am currently being supervised by Dr. Tony Reigle, PhD, LPC and Dr. Estefanía Simich Muñoz, PhD, LCPC, CST, CST-S, Patricia Rich LCSW, CST-S, CST. I work with women, men, 2SLGBTQ+, survivors of abuse, folks with HIV/AIDS, in the Kink/BDSM lifestyle, folks struggling with sexual function issues, and those in relationships struggling to build intimacy.
Welcome to RHS, I hold a Master of Social Work Degree from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. Currently specializing in Sex and Relationship Therapy, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Family systems therapy, and a wide variety of mindfulness-based holistic clinical approaches. I am currently being supervised by Dr. Tony Reigle, PhD, LPC and Dr. Estefanía Simich Muñoz, PhD, LCPC, CST, CST-S, Patricia Rich LCSW, CST-S, CST. I work with women, men, 2SLGBTQ+, survivors of abuse, folks with HIV/AIDS, in the Kink/BDSM lifestyle, folks struggling with sexual function issues, and those in relationships struggling to build intimacy.
(717) 970-5545 View (717) 970-5545
Photo of Grace Be Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Grace Be Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW, MSW, MA, BSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
At Grace Be Mental Health, we believe in the importance of holistic health! We believe in the mind, body, soul connection. We strive to meet each client where they are, taking a person-centered approach. We intend for therapy to be a safe space! We view therapy as a tool, and an experience that can assist in the life-long process of learning and re-learning ourselves. We are honored to be a part of the work of self-development with each client we get to know! Specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, body image, ADD/ADHD, OCD, anger management, chronic pain, chronic illness, and adjustment disorders.
At Grace Be Mental Health, we believe in the importance of holistic health! We believe in the mind, body, soul connection. We strive to meet each client where they are, taking a person-centered approach. We intend for therapy to be a safe space! We view therapy as a tool, and an experience that can assist in the life-long process of learning and re-learning ourselves. We are honored to be a part of the work of self-development with each client we get to know! Specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, body image, ADD/ADHD, OCD, anger management, chronic pain, chronic illness, and adjustment disorders.
(223) 218-2588 View (223) 218-2588
Photo of Kimberly Harford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Kimberly Harford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Hello, my name is Kim. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), who live in Pennsylvania. In my first I career was a middle school teacher. I made a great leap and returned to school and received a master degree in social work. I am happy to say, I made the right decision! I am a registered yoga teacher and a master gardener. I love hiking, yoga, playing in "dirt" aka gardening and playing with my two spoiled dogs.
Hello, my name is Kim. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), who live in Pennsylvania. In my first I career was a middle school teacher. I made a great leap and returned to school and received a master degree in social work. I am happy to say, I made the right decision! I am a registered yoga teacher and a master gardener. I love hiking, yoga, playing in "dirt" aka gardening and playing with my two spoiled dogs.
(717) 340-9537 View (717) 340-9537
Photo of Valarie Bielicki, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Valarie Bielicki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
Therapy can be scary, but so is remaining exactly the same. If you are looking to reach your goals, improve your relationships, or just have an overall better quality of life, I want to help. My goal is to create a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment where you can work at your own pace to achieve what you want out of therapy and out of life.
Therapy can be scary, but so is remaining exactly the same. If you are looking to reach your goals, improve your relationships, or just have an overall better quality of life, I want to help. My goal is to create a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment where you can work at your own pace to achieve what you want out of therapy and out of life.
(717) 229-9409 View (717) 229-9409
Photo of Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
My name is Candace Johnson and I am the owner of Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC. We are interested in helping you learn how to "Soar with Purpose" ,through the challenges you may be facing. Whether you need a confidential ear to vent or support; our mission is to help you learn practical skill to improve your life. We provide a compassionate non-judgmental, culturally sensitive environment that allows you to express yourself, uncover your barriers, and identify things standing in the way of your happiness.
My name is Candace Johnson and I am the owner of Purposefully Soaring Counseling Services LLC. We are interested in helping you learn how to "Soar with Purpose" ,through the challenges you may be facing. Whether you need a confidential ear to vent or support; our mission is to help you learn practical skill to improve your life. We provide a compassionate non-judgmental, culturally sensitive environment that allows you to express yourself, uncover your barriers, and identify things standing in the way of your happiness.
(717) 366-6723 View (717) 366-6723
Photo of CityCouples Online Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
CityCouples Online Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
You're going through a relationship crisis, feeling confused about how to get on the same page, or frustrated with the state of your connection. You remember when things were different, and you're ready to make changes that will get you on the path to the future you hope to have, together. We know how to help! We offer expert online therapy for couples in New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Worldwide. Take a look at our available therapists at citycouples.net/meet-our-team. Our specialities include communication, betrayal recovery, ENM, LGBTQIA+ relationships, and more.
You're going through a relationship crisis, feeling confused about how to get on the same page, or frustrated with the state of your connection. You remember when things were different, and you're ready to make changes that will get you on the path to the future you hope to have, together. We know how to help! We offer expert online therapy for couples in New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Worldwide. Take a look at our available therapists at citycouples.net/meet-our-team. Our specialities include communication, betrayal recovery, ENM, LGBTQIA+ relationships, and more.
(833) 204-3561 View (833) 204-3561
Photo of Dan Karlow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Dan Karlow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112  (Online Only)
Many of my clients are men who are going through some type of life challenge. Many of these men are looking to talk to someone about their relationship, their marriage, their divorce...many are fathers looking for advice. I have noticed more and more men have tried therapy in the last few years, Many people are at a breaking point, and need help. Sometimes it just takes one person who hears you, understands you and is there to help guide you. The next step is to reach out.
Many of my clients are men who are going through some type of life challenge. Many of these men are looking to talk to someone about their relationship, their marriage, their divorce...many are fathers looking for advice. I have noticed more and more men have tried therapy in the last few years, Many people are at a breaking point, and need help. Sometimes it just takes one person who hears you, understands you and is there to help guide you. The next step is to reach out.
(223) 332-4461 View (223) 332-4461
Photo of Charlene Nunez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Charlene Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Charlene is a dynamic and compassionate bilingual therapist dedicated to empowering individuals and families to achieve their fullest potential. Born and raised in the multicultural setting of NYC and holding a Masters in Social Work, Charlene is passionate about providing inclusive and accessible mental health services to diverse communities. Her lived experience and multicultural background enable her to understand and connect with clients of all ages and backgrounds in a genuine and relatable manner. Charlene believes in the importance of creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued.
Charlene is a dynamic and compassionate bilingual therapist dedicated to empowering individuals and families to achieve their fullest potential. Born and raised in the multicultural setting of NYC and holding a Masters in Social Work, Charlene is passionate about providing inclusive and accessible mental health services to diverse communities. Her lived experience and multicultural background enable her to understand and connect with clients of all ages and backgrounds in a genuine and relatable manner. Charlene believes in the importance of creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued.
(717) 384-2469 View (717) 384-2469
Photo of Steffi Devine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Steffi Devine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Not accepting new clients
Feeling like you may be in over your head or wonder if a problem is serious or just a "stage?" Whether it is parenting your child or teen, trying to balance your personal life, professional life, or manage your intimate relationship, even the best of us can still have times where an outside compassionate, neutral party is helpful. Let me help in managing your concerns and together we can find ways to utilize your gifts in overcoming current issues which prevent you from feeling fully empowered.
Feeling like you may be in over your head or wonder if a problem is serious or just a "stage?" Whether it is parenting your child or teen, trying to balance your personal life, professional life, or manage your intimate relationship, even the best of us can still have times where an outside compassionate, neutral party is helpful. Let me help in managing your concerns and together we can find ways to utilize your gifts in overcoming current issues which prevent you from feeling fully empowered.
(717) 535-2406 View (717) 535-2406
Photo of Shakirah Ewell: Women And Young Adults, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Shakirah Ewell: Women And Young Adults
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
In therapy, my goal is to meet the client where they are by individualizing treatment based on the needs of the client. No matter what your struggle is, we will work towards increasing your optimism, challenge unhelpful thoughts and improve overall well-being. I have a holistic approach believing that the mind, body and soul are connected.
In therapy, my goal is to meet the client where they are by individualizing treatment based on the needs of the client. No matter what your struggle is, we will work towards increasing your optimism, challenge unhelpful thoughts and improve overall well-being. I have a holistic approach believing that the mind, body and soul are connected.
(717) 905-4154 View (717) 905-4154
Photo of Merle Mullins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Merle Mullins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
I help my clients overcome the issues that arise in family and work life: anxiety and depression, marital discord, healing after an affair, parenting strategies, anger management, addictions, step-family difficulties, or dealing with separation or divorce. I help people deal with behavior problems and relationship issues in the workplace, school, or community, including depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, obsessions and compulsions, grief and loss, and an inability to find meaning or purpose in life. I am also available for telecounseling sessions.
I help my clients overcome the issues that arise in family and work life: anxiety and depression, marital discord, healing after an affair, parenting strategies, anger management, addictions, step-family difficulties, or dealing with separation or divorce. I help people deal with behavior problems and relationship issues in the workplace, school, or community, including depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, obsessions and compulsions, grief and loss, and an inability to find meaning or purpose in life. I am also available for telecounseling sessions.
(717) 546-9750 View (717) 546-9750
Photo of Shannon Ashley Nordt, Pre-Licensed Professional in Harrisburg, PA
Shannon Ashley Nordt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
I specialize in meeting my clients where they are needed and filling their toolbox with tools needed to make it throughout their day. These tools include counseling skills, meditation, mindfulness techniques and coping skills to help them in time of crisis and with everyday situations.
I specialize in meeting my clients where they are needed and filling their toolbox with tools needed to make it throughout their day. These tools include counseling skills, meditation, mindfulness techniques and coping skills to help them in time of crisis and with everyday situations.
(717) 400-6121 View (717) 400-6121
Photo of Sandra Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Sandra Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
If you’re navigating parenting, family relationships, and life’s challenges, I look forward to meeting with you! Throughout my training and experience, I have provided individual, group, and family counseling in community, child welfare, and substance use treatment settings. I work from a client-centered approach and consider myself a guest on your journey to hope, wellness, and strength.
If you’re navigating parenting, family relationships, and life’s challenges, I look forward to meeting with you! Throughout my training and experience, I have provided individual, group, and family counseling in community, child welfare, and substance use treatment settings. I work from a client-centered approach and consider myself a guest on your journey to hope, wellness, and strength.
(717) 892-5832 View (717) 892-5832
Photo of Nicole Marie Mallory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Nicole Marie Mallory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Waitlist for new clients
"We can always start again. Or start over." Hello, and welcome. Why suffer longer than you need to? I invite you to come sit on my cozy couch in a peaceful environment where you will receive essential tips about how to release that dead weight that has been dragging you down. My ideal client is tired of their mental health taking over. They are tired of their anxiety keeping them up at night. They are tired of their crappy mood affecting their relationships with others. They are tired of not following their dreams. They are tired- but they are willing to heal to live.
"We can always start again. Or start over." Hello, and welcome. Why suffer longer than you need to? I invite you to come sit on my cozy couch in a peaceful environment where you will receive essential tips about how to release that dead weight that has been dragging you down. My ideal client is tired of their mental health taking over. They are tired of their anxiety keeping them up at night. They are tired of their crappy mood affecting their relationships with others. They are tired of not following their dreams. They are tired- but they are willing to heal to live.
(717) 929-8716 View (717) 929-8716
Photo of Jill Parisi Counseling Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Jill Parisi Counseling Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Jill Parisi Counseling Associates provides services that are recovery-oriented so that individuals have the potential to maximize awareness, growth, healing and resiliency.
Jill Parisi Counseling Associates provides services that are recovery-oriented so that individuals have the potential to maximize awareness, growth, healing and resiliency.
(717) 516-6984 View (717) 516-6984
Photo of Rachael Ananian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Rachael Ananian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
I am a HAES-oriented clinician who is passionate about helping others get better at feeling, not just feeling better. Our emotions can feel overwhelming, and as result we might avoid them altogether, using unhelpful behaviors to cope which can then make you feel more overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. My goal is to help you identify, accept, and understand the difficult internal experiences so that you may take meaningful action in your life.
I am a HAES-oriented clinician who is passionate about helping others get better at feeling, not just feeling better. Our emotions can feel overwhelming, and as result we might avoid them altogether, using unhelpful behaviors to cope which can then make you feel more overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. My goal is to help you identify, accept, and understand the difficult internal experiences so that you may take meaningful action in your life.
(484) 878-5691 View (484) 878-5691
Photo of Claudette Guider, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Claudette Guider
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! Are you struggling with showing yourself self-compassion? Are you ready to regain your spark and power? Are you a domestic violence survivor or struggling to get out of an unhealthy relationship? Are you ready to start your journey to Self-Love? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, than you are in the right place! For the past 15 years, as a Mental Health Therapist, I have been working with adolescents and adults that struggle with symptoms of trauma such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, loss of sense "Who I am", low self-worth, and mistrust by helping them find their purpose and their "WHY".
Hello and Welcome! Are you struggling with showing yourself self-compassion? Are you ready to regain your spark and power? Are you a domestic violence survivor or struggling to get out of an unhealthy relationship? Are you ready to start your journey to Self-Love? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, than you are in the right place! For the past 15 years, as a Mental Health Therapist, I have been working with adolescents and adults that struggle with symptoms of trauma such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, loss of sense "Who I am", low self-worth, and mistrust by helping them find their purpose and their "WHY".
(717) 670-6509 View (717) 670-6509
Photo of Derek Schoffstall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Derek Schoffstall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Imagine a future where you're not just surviving, but thriving in your personal and relational life. This journey is rooted in the belief that it's never too late to reach out for help, and that positive change is always possible. Whether you're working through personal challenges like self-doubt and anxiety, or navigating relationship issues such as communication barriers or infidelity, I am here to support you. Our goal is to transform these challenges into catalysts for growth and relational healing.
Imagine a future where you're not just surviving, but thriving in your personal and relational life. This journey is rooted in the belief that it's never too late to reach out for help, and that positive change is always possible. Whether you're working through personal challenges like self-doubt and anxiety, or navigating relationship issues such as communication barriers or infidelity, I am here to support you. Our goal is to transform these challenges into catalysts for growth and relational healing.
(717) 696-6908 View (717) 696-6908
Photo of Marisol Cruz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Marisol Cruz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Marisol! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 9 years of experience working with teens, young adults, and adults. My background includes having worked in outpatient as well as private practice settings. I most commonly treat anxiety, life transitions, career exploration, ADHD, stress management, parenting support, and depression. I work from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy perspective but also employ various other therapeutic techniques to help you feel heard, validated, and empowered to make healthy choices. I can offer therapy services in English and Spanish.
Hi, I’m Marisol! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 9 years of experience working with teens, young adults, and adults. My background includes having worked in outpatient as well as private practice settings. I most commonly treat anxiety, life transitions, career exploration, ADHD, stress management, parenting support, and depression. I work from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy perspective but also employ various other therapeutic techniques to help you feel heard, validated, and empowered to make healthy choices. I can offer therapy services in English and Spanish.
(610) 890-6541 View (610) 890-6541

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Harrisburg, PA

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Harrisburg, PA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
68% Relationship Issues
63% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Highmark
74% Optum
71% Aetna

How Therapists in Harrisburg, PA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
24% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Harrisburg?

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.