Therapists in Boca Raton, FL

Photo of Stephanie Burstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Stephanie Burstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Stephanie counsels children, young adults and families. She specializes in helping people struggling with challenging life transitions, social skills, depression, personality disorders, and anxiety. During therapy, Stephanie creates a safe and open environment where her clients can feel comfortable exploring their troubles, behaviors, and emotions. She draws on a variety of skills and therapeutic methods including DBT, expressive therapy, family systems therapy, play therapy and more.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Stephanie counsels children, young adults and families. She specializes in helping people struggling with challenging life transitions, social skills, depression, personality disorders, and anxiety. During therapy, Stephanie creates a safe and open environment where her clients can feel comfortable exploring their troubles, behaviors, and emotions. She draws on a variety of skills and therapeutic methods including DBT, expressive therapy, family systems therapy, play therapy and more.
(561) 513-5905 View (561) 513-5905
Photo of Michelle Mankoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Michelle Mankoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a masters in counseling education from the University of Miami. My areas of specialization include the treatment of: anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, adoptive and birth family issues, infertility and emotional issues, adolescent and young adult problems, sexual abuse, and divorce counseling. The primary focus of my practice is providing professional counseling that will restore emotional and mental stability. I use an approach that is based on genuine trusting relationships with my clients.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a masters in counseling education from the University of Miami. My areas of specialization include the treatment of: anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, adoptive and birth family issues, infertility and emotional issues, adolescent and young adult problems, sexual abuse, and divorce counseling. The primary focus of my practice is providing professional counseling that will restore emotional and mental stability. I use an approach that is based on genuine trusting relationships with my clients.
(561) 701-8336 View (561) 701-8336
Photo of Risa Lurie, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Risa Lurie
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents. I worked as a school Guidance Counselor in New York and Florida for over 15 years and have been in the field of counseling for over 25 years. I pursued my Mental Health Counseling license to help address the emotional needs of children and teens that I saw first hand in the schools. My focus is on the social and emotional needs of children through group and individual therapy, and providing unconditional support to parents and families.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents. I worked as a school Guidance Counselor in New York and Florida for over 15 years and have been in the field of counseling for over 25 years. I pursued my Mental Health Counseling license to help address the emotional needs of children and teens that I saw first hand in the schools. My focus is on the social and emotional needs of children through group and individual therapy, and providing unconditional support to parents and families.
(561) 609-1880 View (561) 609-1880
Photo of Yisroel Schor, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Yisroel Schor
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, IFS
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Life can often be overwhelming, and incredibly difficult to navigate. At times it seems like everyone else is moving forward while you’re just stuck in the exact same place. You're tired of living with negative thoughts, constant anxiety and self loathing. You may be in a relationship but have the lost the spark and are fighting and you don’t know where it went or how to get it back. Perhaps you feel misunderstood by those around you and have trouble articulating what you are feeling. You want someone to truly understand the complex person that you are. If this struggle sounds familiar I might just be the person that can help you.
Life can often be overwhelming, and incredibly difficult to navigate. At times it seems like everyone else is moving forward while you’re just stuck in the exact same place. You're tired of living with negative thoughts, constant anxiety and self loathing. You may be in a relationship but have the lost the spark and are fighting and you don’t know where it went or how to get it back. Perhaps you feel misunderstood by those around you and have trouble articulating what you are feeling. You want someone to truly understand the complex person that you are. If this struggle sounds familiar I might just be the person that can help you.
(551) 465-7162 View (551) 465-7162
Photo of Kerri Avery Ifill, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Kerri Avery Ifill
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
My compassionate approach to therapy allows clients to find comfort in an honest therapeutic relationship, in order to achieve their personal goals for healing. I work to create a non-judgmental and supportive environment that promotes an individual's personal strengths and innate ability to resolve his/her own life struggles. My intention is to gain an understanding of clients' patterns of behaviors, and use my training and intuition to guide treatment and establish therapeutic goals. I specialize in providing services to clients who struggle with depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
My compassionate approach to therapy allows clients to find comfort in an honest therapeutic relationship, in order to achieve their personal goals for healing. I work to create a non-judgmental and supportive environment that promotes an individual's personal strengths and innate ability to resolve his/her own life struggles. My intention is to gain an understanding of clients' patterns of behaviors, and use my training and intuition to guide treatment and establish therapeutic goals. I specialize in providing services to clients who struggle with depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
(877) 744-9731 View (877) 744-9731
Photo of Jodi Shir, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Jodi Shir
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Dr. Jodi Samuels Shir is a Florida Licensed Psychologist and has over twenty-five years of experience in treating individuals, couples, and families for a variety of mental health issues. Dr. Shir received her Bachelors’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees graduating with the distinction of high honors from the University of Florida. She completed her internship at Nova Southeastern University with a specialization in child trauma and family violence. Since 1991, Dr. Shir has developed a focus on the treatment of emotional and behavioral problems of children and adolescents.
Dr. Jodi Samuels Shir is a Florida Licensed Psychologist and has over twenty-five years of experience in treating individuals, couples, and families for a variety of mental health issues. Dr. Shir received her Bachelors’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees graduating with the distinction of high honors from the University of Florida. She completed her internship at Nova Southeastern University with a specialization in child trauma and family violence. Since 1991, Dr. Shir has developed a focus on the treatment of emotional and behavioral problems of children and adolescents.
(561) 532-1484 View (561) 532-1484
Photo of Steve Brenner, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Steve Brenner, MS, LMHC, NCC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Are you looking to find direction, to clarify goals, or ready to dig deep and work on core issues? Often it is our family of origin issues, buried within, that drive today's unwanted behaviors. I enjoy working with those who are seeking solutions to problems that have been standing in your way and blocking you from achieving your full potential in life. I would like to be your partner on the journey to well-being. My years of experience working in community mental health, substance abuse and co- occurring treatment, as well as outpatient therapy enables me to help clients navigate complex situations.
Are you looking to find direction, to clarify goals, or ready to dig deep and work on core issues? Often it is our family of origin issues, buried within, that drive today's unwanted behaviors. I enjoy working with those who are seeking solutions to problems that have been standing in your way and blocking you from achieving your full potential in life. I would like to be your partner on the journey to well-being. My years of experience working in community mental health, substance abuse and co- occurring treatment, as well as outpatient therapy enables me to help clients navigate complex situations.
(561) 449-2716 View (561) 449-2716
Photo of Aaryn Post Gottesfeld, Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Aaryn Post Gottesfeld
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
My style is warm, interactive, respectful, practical, and collaborative, and I have experience working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I believe that establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic environment is the foundation on which to increase self-understanding and insight, and that this is essential to promoting growth and achieving therapeutic goals. My years of experience have strengthened my sense of optimism and belief that you can feel better, and that change and growth are possible.
My style is warm, interactive, respectful, practical, and collaborative, and I have experience working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I believe that establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic environment is the foundation on which to increase self-understanding and insight, and that this is essential to promoting growth and achieving therapeutic goals. My years of experience have strengthened my sense of optimism and belief that you can feel better, and that change and growth are possible.
(561) 270-4976 View (561) 270-4976
Photo of Dr. Derek G. Turesky, Ph.D., Psychologist in Boca Raton, FL
Dr. Derek G. Turesky, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33496  (Online Only)
I'm a deeply caring, compassionate, and personable licensed psychologist with experience treating anxiety, panic, depression, relationship problems, and stress. I also have specialized training in mindfulness-based therapies (e.g., ACT), the mind-body connection, and frequently work with many clients struggling with stress-related physical problems. My clients range across the lifespan from college students and young professionals to older adults. Depending upon your needs, I'll work with you to create a customized plan in the context of a warm and nurturing atmosphere. https://www.mindbodypsychologist.com/
I'm a deeply caring, compassionate, and personable licensed psychologist with experience treating anxiety, panic, depression, relationship problems, and stress. I also have specialized training in mindfulness-based therapies (e.g., ACT), the mind-body connection, and frequently work with many clients struggling with stress-related physical problems. My clients range across the lifespan from college students and young professionals to older adults. Depending upon your needs, I'll work with you to create a customized plan in the context of a warm and nurturing atmosphere. https://www.mindbodypsychologist.com/
(561) 288-6914 View (561) 288-6914
Photo of Michael Berger Therapy & Consulting Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Michael Berger Therapy & Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Waitlist for new clients
Vulnerability is hard. The 'easier' choice is just not to talk about it. 'If I just don't think about it, I will be fine.' Sound familiar? It's a common coping strategy. One which consistently backfires as evidenced by the persistent emotional and/or relational problems continuing to appear in your life. What we resists persists. You want to feel heard, seen and understood. I assure you, you will. Remember you cannot heal what you refuse to feel. Reach out for a free consultation call today. You are one decision away from feeling better in your life. I'm here.
Vulnerability is hard. The 'easier' choice is just not to talk about it. 'If I just don't think about it, I will be fine.' Sound familiar? It's a common coping strategy. One which consistently backfires as evidenced by the persistent emotional and/or relational problems continuing to appear in your life. What we resists persists. You want to feel heard, seen and understood. I assure you, you will. Remember you cannot heal what you refuse to feel. Reach out for a free consultation call today. You are one decision away from feeling better in your life. I'm here.
(561) 448-6276 View (561) 448-6276
Photo of Milton A Kaufman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Milton A Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33434
I treat clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, marital/relationship issues, stage of life issues, stress reduction issues, behavioral issues, mood disorders, career issues, self-esteem issues, anger management issues, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sexual identity issues, attachment issues, and self-harm issues. I have extensive experience with family therapy and couples therapy. I utilize methods that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and IMAGO Therapy.
I treat clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, marital/relationship issues, stage of life issues, stress reduction issues, behavioral issues, mood disorders, career issues, self-esteem issues, anger management issues, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sexual identity issues, attachment issues, and self-harm issues. I have extensive experience with family therapy and couples therapy. I utilize methods that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and IMAGO Therapy.
(754) 227-2082 View (754) 227-2082
Photo of Behavioral Help Solutions, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Behavioral Help Solutions
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, MBA
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Providing mental health & addiction intervention solutions nationwide. Do not wait for the next crisis to do something, take action now.
Providing mental health & addiction intervention solutions nationwide. Do not wait for the next crisis to do something, take action now.
(786) 460-5165 View (786) 460-5165
Photo of Amanda Buff, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Amanda Buff
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Amanda Buff is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor (LMHC-NCC) with nearly 10 years of clinical experience helping people in search of therapeutic support and guidance as they work through life obstacles. She specializes in helping clients who are faced with depression, codependency, anger, low self-esteem. addiction, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and more. She earned her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling at Monmouth University in New Jersey.
Amanda Buff is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor (LMHC-NCC) with nearly 10 years of clinical experience helping people in search of therapeutic support and guidance as they work through life obstacles. She specializes in helping clients who are faced with depression, codependency, anger, low self-esteem. addiction, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, and more. She earned her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling at Monmouth University in New Jersey.
(561) 220-3756 View (561) 220-3756
Photo of Dr. Lisa C. Palmer Phd Lmft Cht Crrtt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Dr. Lisa C. Palmer Phd Lmft Cht Crrtt
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CHT, CRRTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33432
The Renew Center of Florida was ranked #1 Treatment Center for PTSD in US by Newsmax in 2017. A boutique center founded by America’s leading psychotherapist, Dr. Lisa Palmer, draws many high-profile patients from all over the world. Renew Center is known for effective "reality-based" treatment programs with a focus on healing root symptoms. Combining psychotherapy with functional medicine, Renew offers 30-60-90 Day intensive outpatient programs to heal the whole mind and body from eating disorders, traumas, mood instabilities, relationships, and health concerns stemming from mental health.
The Renew Center of Florida was ranked #1 Treatment Center for PTSD in US by Newsmax in 2017. A boutique center founded by America’s leading psychotherapist, Dr. Lisa Palmer, draws many high-profile patients from all over the world. Renew Center is known for effective "reality-based" treatment programs with a focus on healing root symptoms. Combining psychotherapy with functional medicine, Renew offers 30-60-90 Day intensive outpatient programs to heal the whole mind and body from eating disorders, traumas, mood instabilities, relationships, and health concerns stemming from mental health.
(800) 509-0244 View (800) 509-0244
Photo of Becky Grace Aronson, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Becky Grace Aronson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431  (Online Only)
Anxiety, grief, stress, trauma, and just life in general can be challenging. How many of you reading this agree? But guess what? There's a way to manage it.
Anxiety, grief, stress, trauma, and just life in general can be challenging. How many of you reading this agree? But guess what? There's a way to manage it.
(954) 951-8035 View (954) 951-8035
Photo of Ruth Carrasco, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Ruth Carrasco
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33496  (Online Only)
I graduated with a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in December of 2002 and have been working in the Mental Health Field for over 20 years. I have been licensed in the State of Florida since September of 2005. I have had the opportunity to work in very diverse and multicultural environments and with clients of different ages; these include young children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients. I have experience providing individual and group therapy. I am a very empathic professional and my approach is very client centered.
I graduated with a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in December of 2002 and have been working in the Mental Health Field for over 20 years. I have been licensed in the State of Florida since September of 2005. I have had the opportunity to work in very diverse and multicultural environments and with clients of different ages; these include young children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients. I have experience providing individual and group therapy. I am a very empathic professional and my approach is very client centered.
(561) 821-3213 View (561) 821-3213
Photo of Kim Williamson, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Kim Williamson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
I have had great success working with single women, ages 18-40, struggling with unmet desires for marriage, anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, fear, faith deconstruction, self confidence, overall knowing their true goodness and beauty as a woman. They typically desire to feel more free to be uniquely themselves, without pressures to perform for love and approval.
I have had great success working with single women, ages 18-40, struggling with unmet desires for marriage, anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, fear, faith deconstruction, self confidence, overall knowing their true goodness and beauty as a woman. They typically desire to feel more free to be uniquely themselves, without pressures to perform for love and approval.
(954) 951-8678 View (954) 951-8678
Photo of Heidi Rain in Boca Raton, FL
Heidi Rain
MCC, MNLP, DDiv
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Waitlist for new clients
You're at the crossroads of stay or go. You wonder if a relationship with an addict or alcoholic can be fixed or saved? You want to know you've done all you can before your worst fears are realized. You've worked hard to create the life you have and you know if your partner can just choose you and get it together, you'd have the perfect life. But, the bottom never comes and the lies, manipulation, and gaslighting are getting worse. You need to make a decision and figure this out. Together we'll devise the perfect action plan and change things now!
You're at the crossroads of stay or go. You wonder if a relationship with an addict or alcoholic can be fixed or saved? You want to know you've done all you can before your worst fears are realized. You've worked hard to create the life you have and you know if your partner can just choose you and get it together, you'd have the perfect life. But, the bottom never comes and the lies, manipulation, and gaslighting are getting worse. You need to make a decision and figure this out. Together we'll devise the perfect action plan and change things now!
(561) 517-9779 View (561) 517-9779
Photo of Caterina Chimenti, Counselor in Boca Raton, FL
Caterina Chimenti
Counselor, LMHC, ACS, CEO, PA, PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33486
Dr. Chimenti teaches PhD students how to be ethical practitioners who advocate for patients in conjunction to her Private Practices. As a Yoga and Meditation Instructor since 1998; She individualizes the incorporation of in depth analysis of Western and Eastern models of the mind into her clinical practice. As a Veteran of the U.S. Army; She has extensive experience with Emotional and Psychological trauma; trained in EMDR. Working with families, couples dealing with attachment issues that result in trauma, addiction and maladaptive behaviors and thought patterns is definitely a wide population of her clientele.
Dr. Chimenti teaches PhD students how to be ethical practitioners who advocate for patients in conjunction to her Private Practices. As a Yoga and Meditation Instructor since 1998; She individualizes the incorporation of in depth analysis of Western and Eastern models of the mind into her clinical practice. As a Veteran of the U.S. Army; She has extensive experience with Emotional and Psychological trauma; trained in EMDR. Working with families, couples dealing with attachment issues that result in trauma, addiction and maladaptive behaviors and thought patterns is definitely a wide population of her clientele.
(561) 250-8113 View (561) 250-8113
Photo of Dafna Gutkind, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boca Raton, FL
Dafna Gutkind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433  (Online Only)
Are you feeling sad? Overwhelmed? Stuck? Navigating the ups and downs of life can be challenging and exhausting when you feel lonely and lack support. You may be feeling depressed or dealing with low self esteem. Or are you feeling anxious? An intense desire to be perfect? Racing thoughts about yourself or others? Do you feel stuck in life and triggered in relationships and social interactions? You can be experiencing past trauma or recent traumatic events that can cause you to feel frequently triggered or experience ruminating thoughts. This can make it challenging to regulate your emotions and maintain daily functioning.
Are you feeling sad? Overwhelmed? Stuck? Navigating the ups and downs of life can be challenging and exhausting when you feel lonely and lack support. You may be feeling depressed or dealing with low self esteem. Or are you feeling anxious? An intense desire to be perfect? Racing thoughts about yourself or others? Do you feel stuck in life and triggered in relationships and social interactions? You can be experiencing past trauma or recent traumatic events that can cause you to feel frequently triggered or experience ruminating thoughts. This can make it challenging to regulate your emotions and maintain daily functioning.
(646) 969-3104 View (646) 969-3104

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Boca Raton, FL

1,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Boca Raton, FL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
81% Self Esteem
80% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
67% Stress
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
69% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Boca Raton, FL see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Boca Raton?

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.