Therapists in 34231

Photo of Jill Bressler, PhD, LCSW
Jill Bressler
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
If you feel stuck, confused, locked in the same "dance" in your thoughts, behavior, and relationships, I will help you with the untangling. We will work together to find patterns, solve problems, and develop resilience and self-awareness. I specialize in Couples and Family work, and also in the challenges of aging. Nobody exists in a vacuum….we are all part of a system and discovering how those interactions work is exciting. I utilize evidence based Gottman techniques as well as Johnson’s Emotionally Focused approaches. Gifted children and adolescents are a particular interest and specialty.
If you feel stuck, confused, locked in the same "dance" in your thoughts, behavior, and relationships, I will help you with the untangling. We will work together to find patterns, solve problems, and develop resilience and self-awareness. I specialize in Couples and Family work, and also in the challenges of aging. Nobody exists in a vacuum….we are all part of a system and discovering how those interactions work is exciting. I utilize evidence based Gottman techniques as well as Johnson’s Emotionally Focused approaches. Gifted children and adolescents are a particular interest and specialty.
(941) 257-1287 x1 View (941) 257-1287 x1
Photo of Mary Gavin Cantillo, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Mary Gavin Cantillo
Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
I understand the joys and challenges of raising children today. Balancing academic demands, extracurricular activities, household responsibilities, relationships and unsettling times can be exhausting both physically and emotionally. I can help you and your family navigate through emotional times, family changes, school or behavior problems in a relaxed, non-judgemental and therapeutic setting. Our mission is to support children, adolescents and families by providing developmentally appropriate and evidenced based therapies to support the academic and social-emotional well-being of the individual both at home and in school.
I understand the joys and challenges of raising children today. Balancing academic demands, extracurricular activities, household responsibilities, relationships and unsettling times can be exhausting both physically and emotionally. I can help you and your family navigate through emotional times, family changes, school or behavior problems in a relaxed, non-judgemental and therapeutic setting. Our mission is to support children, adolescents and families by providing developmentally appropriate and evidenced based therapies to support the academic and social-emotional well-being of the individual both at home and in school.
(941) 254-2548 View (941) 254-2548
Photo of Savannah Gabriel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Savannah Gabriel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
Welcome! I am an LCSW that specializes in working with ages 5-20. My approach emphasizes creating a safe, supportive and client centered environment where you feel fully seen and heard as we work together. I meet each individual where they are and walk with them on their unique path toward healing and growth.
Welcome! I am an LCSW that specializes in working with ages 5-20. My approach emphasizes creating a safe, supportive and client centered environment where you feel fully seen and heard as we work together. I meet each individual where they are and walk with them on their unique path toward healing and growth.
(941) 279-4822 View (941) 279-4822
Photo of Kristina B. Paape, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kristina B. Paape
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
9 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida and owner of ALW Counseling and Coaching. I provide flexible, person-centered therapy that helps individuals realize their ability to change and overcome their challenges. If you are coping with depression, anxiety, addiction/substance abuse, or trauma I am here to help. Therapy should be effective, uplifting, and person centered. My counseling approach combines traditional therapy techniques with a practical, problem-solving approach that assists you in seeking the inner strength needed to reach your goals. I work with adults 18 and older.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida and owner of ALW Counseling and Coaching. I provide flexible, person-centered therapy that helps individuals realize their ability to change and overcome their challenges. If you are coping with depression, anxiety, addiction/substance abuse, or trauma I am here to help. Therapy should be effective, uplifting, and person centered. My counseling approach combines traditional therapy techniques with a practical, problem-solving approach that assists you in seeking the inner strength needed to reach your goals. I work with adults 18 and older.
(941) 203-3179 View (941) 203-3179
Photo of Dr. Todd Snyder, Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Dr. Todd Snyder
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
Hello and welcome! Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or worried in your life? Have you lost interest in doing things that used to be fulfilling? Are you struggling with the pain or anxiety of something that has happened in your life? Have you tried to solve these problems on your own and come to realize you need help from someone else? If your answer to any of these questions is “yes,” then you have made the right choice by being here! I know it’s difficult. You’ve quite likely been considering what to do for a very long time. I’m very pleased you’ve found me and taken the courageous step to be here.
Hello and welcome! Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or worried in your life? Have you lost interest in doing things that used to be fulfilling? Are you struggling with the pain or anxiety of something that has happened in your life? Have you tried to solve these problems on your own and come to realize you need help from someone else? If your answer to any of these questions is “yes,” then you have made the right choice by being here! I know it’s difficult. You’ve quite likely been considering what to do for a very long time. I’m very pleased you’ve found me and taken the courageous step to be here.
(941) 236-5078 View (941) 236-5078
Photo of Sonia Romano, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHC, Hypnoth
Sonia Romano
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHC, Hypnoth
Sarasota, FL 34231
Wanting to make beneficial changes, but no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to change unhealthy thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. Know that this isn’t your fault—just your mind processing information in a way that does not benefit you. If you are struggling in a relationship, these stuck patterns can also block connection. I can help you move what has been stuck so you can move toward a future full of possibilities. I specialize in addressing trauma and removing blocks that can keep clients stuck through an approach that can be quite powerful and rapid, without having to re-experience traumatic events and painful emotions.
Wanting to make beneficial changes, but no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to change unhealthy thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. Know that this isn’t your fault—just your mind processing information in a way that does not benefit you. If you are struggling in a relationship, these stuck patterns can also block connection. I can help you move what has been stuck so you can move toward a future full of possibilities. I specialize in addressing trauma and removing blocks that can keep clients stuck through an approach that can be quite powerful and rapid, without having to re-experience traumatic events and painful emotions.
(941) 526-0553 View (941) 526-0553
Photo of Bryan Aicher, Counselor, LMHC
Bryan Aicher
Counselor, LMHC
Sarasota, FL 34231
I recognize that each of us has an innate drive toward health and happiness. Still, life’s difficulties can create patterns within us that outlast their usefulness. My goal is to guide and empower clients to implement meaningful change. I emphasize a collaborative approach to address the needs of the client most effectively.
I recognize that each of us has an innate drive toward health and happiness. Still, life’s difficulties can create patterns within us that outlast their usefulness. My goal is to guide and empower clients to implement meaningful change. I emphasize a collaborative approach to address the needs of the client most effectively.
(954) 556-3964 View (954) 556-3964
Photo of Cheryl Peppers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Cheryl Peppers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Sarasota, FL 34231
While our outer lives may seem well organized, our inner lives are often plagued with unexpressed conflict and confusion. Those who dare to cultivate self-awareness are often surprised by its healing effects - that the process itself unlocks energy and propels one forward. It is never too late. I look forward to witnessing your transformation and discovering how your unique set of issues and ways of working come to bear in the therapeutic alliance that will be uniquely ours.
While our outer lives may seem well organized, our inner lives are often plagued with unexpressed conflict and confusion. Those who dare to cultivate self-awareness are often surprised by its healing effects - that the process itself unlocks energy and propels one forward. It is never too late. I look forward to witnessing your transformation and discovering how your unique set of issues and ways of working come to bear in the therapeutic alliance that will be uniquely ours.
(941) 932-8691 View (941) 932-8691
Photo of Candice Burch - EMDR Therapist in Sarasota, Trauma Counselor, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, EMDR, Th
EMDR Therapist in Sarasota, Trauma Counselor
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, EMDR, Th
11 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
If you’ve been carrying the weight of past pain from trauma or PTSD, you don’t have to do it alone. Do you feel anxious, on edge, unable to sleep, or disconnected from yourself and others? In my counseling space, you’ll find warmth, compassion, and no judgment, a place where your pain can be heard and your heart can heal. Together, we’ll work to calm your mind, ease your physiological symptoms, improve your sleep, and help you feel lighter, more grounded, and at peace. You don’t need all the answers-just the courage to take the next step. When you’re ready, I’m here to help you feel like your true self again.
If you’ve been carrying the weight of past pain from trauma or PTSD, you don’t have to do it alone. Do you feel anxious, on edge, unable to sleep, or disconnected from yourself and others? In my counseling space, you’ll find warmth, compassion, and no judgment, a place where your pain can be heard and your heart can heal. Together, we’ll work to calm your mind, ease your physiological symptoms, improve your sleep, and help you feel lighter, more grounded, and at peace. You don’t need all the answers-just the courage to take the next step. When you’re ready, I’m here to help you feel like your true self again.
(813) 683-8262 View (813) 683-8262
Photo of Jasmine Dw Klugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jasmine Dw Klugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
Life can feel overwhelming, especially for children, teens, and young adults balancing school, relationships, and personal challenges. Whether it’s handling academic stress, bullying, anxiety, or navigating family dynamics, you’re not alone. I’m here to provide support and help you or your loved one develop confidence and resilience. Together, we’ll create a safe, judgment-free space to explore your concerns, build on your strengths, and work toward meaningful change. Growth and healing are possible, no matter where you’re starting.
Life can feel overwhelming, especially for children, teens, and young adults balancing school, relationships, and personal challenges. Whether it’s handling academic stress, bullying, anxiety, or navigating family dynamics, you’re not alone. I’m here to provide support and help you or your loved one develop confidence and resilience. Together, we’ll create a safe, judgment-free space to explore your concerns, build on your strengths, and work toward meaningful change. Growth and healing are possible, no matter where you’re starting.
(941) 229-7899 View (941) 229-7899
Photo of Silvana McDevitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Silvana McDevitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
I am a LCSW specialized in working with older children, teens, and adults who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, OCD symptoms, low self-esteem, boundary challenges, interpersonal problems, and trauma. I also enjoy working with neurodiverse clients in developing skills and strategies to help them navigate their daily lives. I strive to work with clients to blend practical strategies, coping skills, thought restructuring, mindfulness, problem solving, and other approaches to help them overcome day-to-day stressors and process previous traumatic or stressful events.
I am a LCSW specialized in working with older children, teens, and adults who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, OCD symptoms, low self-esteem, boundary challenges, interpersonal problems, and trauma. I also enjoy working with neurodiverse clients in developing skills and strategies to help them navigate their daily lives. I strive to work with clients to blend practical strategies, coping skills, thought restructuring, mindfulness, problem solving, and other approaches to help them overcome day-to-day stressors and process previous traumatic or stressful events.
(941) 231-5168 View (941) 231-5168
Photo of Cassandra Winters, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Cassandra Winters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Sarasota, FL 34231
Relationships can be difficult. Imagine having a supportive person throughout your relationship journey who will listen without judging, help you see the new path when you don't know the next step and cheer you on when you feel like giving up. I am passionate about assisting both men and women navigate the roller coaster of relationships with clarity, confidence, and class. I want to help you cope with your emotions appropriately, which will allow you to move forward and thrive. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that also enjoys working with teenagers. One of my specialities is also helping clients navigate divorce.
Relationships can be difficult. Imagine having a supportive person throughout your relationship journey who will listen without judging, help you see the new path when you don't know the next step and cheer you on when you feel like giving up. I am passionate about assisting both men and women navigate the roller coaster of relationships with clarity, confidence, and class. I want to help you cope with your emotions appropriately, which will allow you to move forward and thrive. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that also enjoys working with teenagers. One of my specialities is also helping clients navigate divorce.
(941) 451-5425 View (941) 451-5425
Photo of Nathan Daniel Groff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Nathan Daniel Groff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Sarasota, FL 34231
Hello, my name is Nathan Groff and I'm a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Florida. I've worked in various settings such as community organizations, faith based, non-profits, private practice, hospitals, schools, and also county contracts. My demographic of specialty has been teenagers and adolescents, but I have worked with all populations from substance, family, crisis, groups, couples, and individuals. I'm also adopted which provides me with a unique perspective when working with parents and individuals of those within the adoption and foster care community. My promise is to meet you where your at.
Hello, my name is Nathan Groff and I'm a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Florida. I've worked in various settings such as community organizations, faith based, non-profits, private practice, hospitals, schools, and also county contracts. My demographic of specialty has been teenagers and adolescents, but I have worked with all populations from substance, family, crisis, groups, couples, and individuals. I'm also adopted which provides me with a unique perspective when working with parents and individuals of those within the adoption and foster care community. My promise is to meet you where your at.
(941) 417-4017 View (941) 417-4017
Photo of Bryan W Aicher, Counselor, LMHC
Bryan W Aicher
Counselor, LMHC
Sarasota, FL 34231
I recognize that each of us has an innate drive toward health and happiness. Still, life’s difficulties can create patterns within us that outlast their usefulness. My goal is to guide and empower clients to implement meaningful change. I emphasize a collaborative approach to address the needs of the client most effectively.
I recognize that each of us has an innate drive toward health and happiness. Still, life’s difficulties can create patterns within us that outlast their usefulness. My goal is to guide and empower clients to implement meaningful change. I emphasize a collaborative approach to address the needs of the client most effectively.
(941) 299-0230 View (941) 299-0230
Photo of Sheila D Gingerich Stiles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, SOTS
Sheila D Gingerich Stiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, SOTS
Sarasota, FL 34231
Hi, i am Sheila D Gingerich Stiles, LCSW in Sarasota, Florida. Do you feel overwhelmed with life? Are relationship and family issues causing you stress? Has divorce left you feeling alone and questioning who you are and what role you now play? Do you want to feel more connected with others, increase your communication skills and gain a sense of more control of your life? As a clinical, licensed psychotherapist with 12 years of experience working with trauma survivors, I look forward to helping you transform your life and relationships into healthy, safe and fulfilling experiences.
Hi, i am Sheila D Gingerich Stiles, LCSW in Sarasota, Florida. Do you feel overwhelmed with life? Are relationship and family issues causing you stress? Has divorce left you feeling alone and questioning who you are and what role you now play? Do you want to feel more connected with others, increase your communication skills and gain a sense of more control of your life? As a clinical, licensed psychotherapist with 12 years of experience working with trauma survivors, I look forward to helping you transform your life and relationships into healthy, safe and fulfilling experiences.
(941) 241-2952 View (941) 241-2952
Gwen H. Pearlstein
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MFT
Sarasota, FL 34231
Life often presents challenges - family conflict, relationships, eldercare, self-care. Choosing a therapist with advanced clinical knowledge offers you the maximum opportunity to experience contentment in life. Relationship difficulties often escalate - working with an experienced therapist increases the probability of a positive outcome. Parenthood can be challenging; while bringing immense joy, pride, and personal growth, it can also add much stress. Caring for an aging parent can be stressful and challenging for you and your parent(s). An experienced counselor assures your well-being and success in all areas of your life.
Life often presents challenges - family conflict, relationships, eldercare, self-care. Choosing a therapist with advanced clinical knowledge offers you the maximum opportunity to experience contentment in life. Relationship difficulties often escalate - working with an experienced therapist increases the probability of a positive outcome. Parenthood can be challenging; while bringing immense joy, pride, and personal growth, it can also add much stress. Caring for an aging parent can be stressful and challenging for you and your parent(s). An experienced counselor assures your well-being and success in all areas of your life.
(941) 548-4206 View (941) 548-4206
Photo of Melissa Lavin, Psychologist, PsyD
Melissa Lavin
Psychologist, PsyD
Sarasota, FL 34231
The journey of one's life can be thrown off course by unexpected changes, trauma, grief, life/family transitions, and emotional struggles. I am dedicated in creating a safe place for individuals and families to understand themselves better and explore these life challenges. Everyone needs to feel understood and accepted at some point in their lives. My goal is to recognize each person's individual needs and help create a path to a more fulfilling life. I am committed to providing holistic, inclusive, and personalized interventions that are effective in getting you back to your complete self.
The journey of one's life can be thrown off course by unexpected changes, trauma, grief, life/family transitions, and emotional struggles. I am dedicated in creating a safe place for individuals and families to understand themselves better and explore these life challenges. Everyone needs to feel understood and accepted at some point in their lives. My goal is to recognize each person's individual needs and help create a path to a more fulfilling life. I am committed to providing holistic, inclusive, and personalized interventions that are effective in getting you back to your complete self.
(941) 271-9912 View (941) 271-9912
Photo of Colleen P Panunzio, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Colleen P Panunzio
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
Thank you for checking out my profile! I welcome any questions that you may have prior to scheduling. I'm accepting new patients and I have been in private practice for 24 years. I offer a direct and genuine approach in a supportive environment to help people identify their unhealthy patterns of behaviors that contribute to the difficulties in our lives. I believe in a person's ability to change. My goal is to provide the most effective therapeutic services in a safe, caring, and empathetic environment. I believe that while an understanding of the past is essential, positive change occurs in the present.
Thank you for checking out my profile! I welcome any questions that you may have prior to scheduling. I'm accepting new patients and I have been in private practice for 24 years. I offer a direct and genuine approach in a supportive environment to help people identify their unhealthy patterns of behaviors that contribute to the difficulties in our lives. I believe in a person's ability to change. My goal is to provide the most effective therapeutic services in a safe, caring, and empathetic environment. I believe that while an understanding of the past is essential, positive change occurs in the present.
(941) 220-0361 View (941) 220-0361
Photo of Wendy L Russell, Counselor, LMHC
Wendy L Russell
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
Are you feeling confused, disappointed or defeated? I seek to empower my clients to find their voice and inner strength that may have been squelched by past abuse and trauma. I have experience with many mental health issues but am passionate about helping my clients become emotionally and relationally whole whether it be individually, maritally or in their families.
Are you feeling confused, disappointed or defeated? I seek to empower my clients to find their voice and inner strength that may have been squelched by past abuse and trauma. I have experience with many mental health issues but am passionate about helping my clients become emotionally and relationally whole whether it be individually, maritally or in their families.
(941) 214-4926 View (941) 214-4926
Photo of Richard H Nikla, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CAP, CCTP, C-PD
Richard H Nikla
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CAP, CCTP, C-PD
Sarasota, FL 34231
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Addiction Professional with offices in Sarasota and New Port Richey. My experience involves substance abuse, mood disorders, co-occurring disorders and anxiety disorders as well as guiding people to reduce stress and living a more fulfilling way of life. I attended school in Sarasota in the 1950's and early 1960's, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1970. I was in business in Sarasota until entering the mental health field in 1999 enrolling in Argosy/Sarasota In 2001 receiving a Master's in Mental Health Counseling in 2005.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Addiction Professional with offices in Sarasota and New Port Richey. My experience involves substance abuse, mood disorders, co-occurring disorders and anxiety disorders as well as guiding people to reduce stress and living a more fulfilling way of life. I attended school in Sarasota in the 1950's and early 1960's, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1970. I was in business in Sarasota until entering the mental health field in 1999 enrolling in Argosy/Sarasota In 2001 receiving a Master's in Mental Health Counseling in 2005.
(941) 231-7880 View (941) 231-7880

See more therapy options for 34231

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 34231

90+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in 34231 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
91% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
77% Coping Skills
77% Self Esteem
68% Grief
66% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 34231 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 34231?

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.