Photo of Alison Sargeant, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alison Sargeant
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
I am a registered mental health counselor intern who has been in the mental health field since 2016. I have experience working with and treating anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance abuse. I am passionate about empowering clients and helping them recognize their full potential. I utilize various modalities depending on the client's needs. I believe the client is the expert in their own life.
I am a registered mental health counselor intern who has been in the mental health field since 2016. I have experience working with and treating anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance abuse. I am passionate about empowering clients and helping them recognize their full potential. I utilize various modalities depending on the client's needs. I believe the client is the expert in their own life.
(941) 529-1524 View (941) 529-1524
Photo of Shakira Barbarossa, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shakira Barbarossa
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
I believe that therapy is essential during challenging life transitions such as divorce, family or friendship breakdowns, the loss of a loved one, relocating to a new country or state, significant changes in job, or lifestyle. I incorporate CBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy with a client-centered approach working in collaboration with the client.
I believe that therapy is essential during challenging life transitions such as divorce, family or friendship breakdowns, the loss of a loved one, relocating to a new country or state, significant changes in job, or lifestyle. I incorporate CBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy with a client-centered approach working in collaboration with the client.
(941) 837-8606 View (941) 837-8606
Photo of Madison Ahles, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison Ahles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
It’s hard to imagine a more accurate stereotype than the image of an unhappy adult reclined on a chaise lounge while venting about an unhappy childhood. Though the stereotype might be overly simplified, the reality is your childhood and adolescent years go on to color the rest of your life, shaping your personality, relationships, goals, and opinions. The importance of these years is what drew me to the field. From my very first placement as a graduate school intern, I was especially drawn towards the prospect of helping children and young adults navigate their way through a time that can feel like a rollercoaster.
It’s hard to imagine a more accurate stereotype than the image of an unhappy adult reclined on a chaise lounge while venting about an unhappy childhood. Though the stereotype might be overly simplified, the reality is your childhood and adolescent years go on to color the rest of your life, shaping your personality, relationships, goals, and opinions. The importance of these years is what drew me to the field. From my very first placement as a graduate school intern, I was especially drawn towards the prospect of helping children and young adults navigate their way through a time that can feel like a rollercoaster.
(941) 205-7181 View (941) 205-7181
Photo of Heather D. Eslien, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Heather D. Eslien
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
I have worked for almost 15 years as a therapist and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I am especially passionate about my extensive work with trans and gender-expansive clients and their family members. My empathic, non-judgemental style allows my clients safety in navigating coming out, transitioning and understanding themselves better through a lens of self-compassion. I am well versed in writing letters of support for trans-affirming medical care and have an established resource referral network. Let me help to guide you on the path to your authentic self.
I have worked for almost 15 years as a therapist and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I am especially passionate about my extensive work with trans and gender-expansive clients and their family members. My empathic, non-judgemental style allows my clients safety in navigating coming out, transitioning and understanding themselves better through a lens of self-compassion. I am well versed in writing letters of support for trans-affirming medical care and have an established resource referral network. Let me help to guide you on the path to your authentic self.
(941) 584-5091 View (941) 584-5091
Photo of Kalli Portillo - Trauma Therapist - Inner Child Work, MS, EMDR
Kalli Portillo - Trauma Therapist - Inner Child Work
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, EMDR
Verified Verified
36 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
I help women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s feel like themselves again after trauma. Many of the clients I work with have faced challenges such as childhood trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, complex trauma, and other distressing experiences. My approach is a kind and gentle therapy that integrates relational therapy, EMDR, and inner child work.
I help women in their 20s, 30s, and 40s feel like themselves again after trauma. Many of the clients I work with have faced challenges such as childhood trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, complex trauma, and other distressing experiences. My approach is a kind and gentle therapy that integrates relational therapy, EMDR, and inner child work.
(941) 239-6643 View (941) 239-6643
Photo of Christina Ercoli, LMHC
Christina Ercoli
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
Hello! My name is Christina Ercoli and I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Sarasota Florida and currently work within Sarasota Addiction Specialists and Mindsol Wellness Center. I know that initiating therapy can be difficult and sometimes intimidating, I’m glad you’re here taking the first step towards change. I believe that the therapeutic rapport between therapist and client is most important and that trust and safety in the relationship helps nurture growth. My approach focuses on addressing the core issues that are fueling the symptoms and causing distress in your life.
Hello! My name is Christina Ercoli and I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Sarasota Florida and currently work within Sarasota Addiction Specialists and Mindsol Wellness Center. I know that initiating therapy can be difficult and sometimes intimidating, I’m glad you’re here taking the first step towards change. I believe that the therapeutic rapport between therapist and client is most important and that trust and safety in the relationship helps nurture growth. My approach focuses on addressing the core issues that are fueling the symptoms and causing distress in your life.
(941) 241-3614 View (941) 241-3614
Photo of Maribel Castillo Stikeleather - Behavioral Teaching Solutions LLC, BCBA, LBA, QBA
Behavioral Teaching Solutions LLC
BCBA, LBA, QBA
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
As a licensed and certified behavioral health consultant, I'm here to support you on your journey to improved productivity and overall well-being. Living with intellectual disabilities or behavioral health issues can be challenging, but you're not alone. My compassionate approach to counseling focuses on meeting your unique needs and preferences. Together, we'll develop a personalized behavioral plan to support you in reaching your goals and improving your daily life. My ultimate goal is to empower and support you in achieving your best possible life. Let's work together in a safe and supportive space to achieve this shared goal.
As a licensed and certified behavioral health consultant, I'm here to support you on your journey to improved productivity and overall well-being. Living with intellectual disabilities or behavioral health issues can be challenging, but you're not alone. My compassionate approach to counseling focuses on meeting your unique needs and preferences. Together, we'll develop a personalized behavioral plan to support you in reaching your goals and improving your daily life. My ultimate goal is to empower and support you in achieving your best possible life. Let's work together in a safe and supportive space to achieve this shared goal.
(941) 267-0439 View (941) 267-0439
Photo of Donna Lee Beck, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna Lee Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Donna Beck is a licensed therapist in Sarasota, Florida, specializing in adults and adolescents. Practicing for over 40 years, her therapeutic method is CBT and DBT. Areas of specialization include eating disorders, adolescents, depression, anxiety, OCD and grief/loss. A special and unique addition to the practice is her Certified Therapy Dog “Whiskey”, providing an added layer of comfort and support.
Donna Beck is a licensed therapist in Sarasota, Florida, specializing in adults and adolescents. Practicing for over 40 years, her therapeutic method is CBT and DBT. Areas of specialization include eating disorders, adolescents, depression, anxiety, OCD and grief/loss. A special and unique addition to the practice is her Certified Therapy Dog “Whiskey”, providing an added layer of comfort and support.
(941) 491-0850 View (941) 491-0850
Photo of Jennifer Lieberman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Lieberman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
I enjoy engaging with people about their lives, hearing what matters to them, what's meaningful, and encouraging them to live lives in alignment with those preferences. I partner with people to feel the permission really to be alive. I find it important to keep the work connected to what clients value; that fuels the resilience to tolerate change, hard conversations, and uncomfortable feelings (common elements of therapy). Given this, my ideal client/s is interested in feeling more self-acceptance, capacity to tolerate others, and to face unhelpful, old patterns with love in order to encourage choice and the possibility of change.
I enjoy engaging with people about their lives, hearing what matters to them, what's meaningful, and encouraging them to live lives in alignment with those preferences. I partner with people to feel the permission really to be alive. I find it important to keep the work connected to what clients value; that fuels the resilience to tolerate change, hard conversations, and uncomfortable feelings (common elements of therapy). Given this, my ideal client/s is interested in feeling more self-acceptance, capacity to tolerate others, and to face unhelpful, old patterns with love in order to encourage choice and the possibility of change.
(650) 209-7025 View (650) 209-7025
Photo of Laura D Johnston, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura D Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Laura earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree through The Ohio State University in 1997 and practiced Psychiatric Social Work in Ohio until 2018, when she returned to her home state of Florida. While in Ohio, she worked with individuals, couples and families in Inpatient Psychiatric Treatment, Community Mental Health and other outpatient settings for 20 years before making the move to a small Christian group private practice. Laura is now a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Florida.
Laura earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree through The Ohio State University in 1997 and practiced Psychiatric Social Work in Ohio until 2018, when she returned to her home state of Florida. While in Ohio, she worked with individuals, couples and families in Inpatient Psychiatric Treatment, Community Mental Health and other outpatient settings for 20 years before making the move to a small Christian group private practice. Laura is now a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Florida.
(941) 205-6581 View (941) 205-6581
Photo of Dr. Johana Kuemerle-Pinillos, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Johana Kuemerle-Pinillos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Most people go into relationships with big hopes, a vision of a good future, and the desire to have a fulfilling life. However, somewhere in the process difficulties start to arise, and this hope soon becomes frustration and disappointment. You start to feel discouraged, and might begin to have thoughts of ending the relationship because it is all too much. Whether you are in a new relationship, or you have been together for decades, you are not alone. Every couple experiences a range of difficulties, you might be struggling with communication, constant arguing, or even infidelity. Regardless, I can help you, FREE 15 min consult!
Most people go into relationships with big hopes, a vision of a good future, and the desire to have a fulfilling life. However, somewhere in the process difficulties start to arise, and this hope soon becomes frustration and disappointment. You start to feel discouraged, and might begin to have thoughts of ending the relationship because it is all too much. Whether you are in a new relationship, or you have been together for decades, you are not alone. Every couple experiences a range of difficulties, you might be struggling with communication, constant arguing, or even infidelity. Regardless, I can help you, FREE 15 min consult!
(941) 231-5153 View (941) 231-5153
Photo of Lauren Gavron, PhD, Psychologist
Lauren Gavron
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Dr. Gavron performs neuropsychological testing for adults with such conditions as dementia, vascular disorders, movement disorders and other neurodegenerative disorders, traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, learning disabilities, neuropsychiatric disorders, infectious disease affecting the CNS, neurodevelopmental disorders, metabolic disease and neurological effects of medical disorders or treatment. She also conducts attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) evaluations in the pediatric and adult populations and provides individual cognitive training and rehabilitation.
Dr. Gavron performs neuropsychological testing for adults with such conditions as dementia, vascular disorders, movement disorders and other neurodegenerative disorders, traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, learning disabilities, neuropsychiatric disorders, infectious disease affecting the CNS, neurodevelopmental disorders, metabolic disease and neurological effects of medical disorders or treatment. She also conducts attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) evaluations in the pediatric and adult populations and provides individual cognitive training and rehabilitation.
(941) 213-7358 View (941) 213-7358
Photo of Amanda Michelle Burns, CAP, ICADC, CTRP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Amanda Michelle Burns
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAP, ICADC, CTRP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
Hello! My name is Amanda Burns. I am an Internationally Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor. I am also recognized as a Certified Addiction Professional from the Florida Board and received certification from Florida State in Trauma and Resiliency. I graduated from University of South Florida Summa Cum Laude in 2018 with a Bachelors in Psychology. I am located in Sarasota Florida and currently work within Sarasota Addiction Specialists.
Hello! My name is Amanda Burns. I am an Internationally Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor. I am also recognized as a Certified Addiction Professional from the Florida Board and received certification from Florida State in Trauma and Resiliency. I graduated from University of South Florida Summa Cum Laude in 2018 with a Bachelors in Psychology. I am located in Sarasota Florida and currently work within Sarasota Addiction Specialists.
(941) 269-2143 View (941) 269-2143
Photo of Dr. Jacquelyn T Somach, PhD, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Dr. Jacquelyn T Somach
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Within my practice I offer a supportive environment in which to explore, learn and grow. We all need a space in our life for the full expression of our thoughts and feelings. My intention is to provide a therapeutic relationship of respect and trust, and caring professional counseling designed to facilitate healing for adults, families and couples. I have experience in positive psychology, and the science of happiness and its application, in clinical practice for a holistic approach to health and well-being.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Within my practice I offer a supportive environment in which to explore, learn and grow. We all need a space in our life for the full expression of our thoughts and feelings. My intention is to provide a therapeutic relationship of respect and trust, and caring professional counseling designed to facilitate healing for adults, families and couples. I have experience in positive psychology, and the science of happiness and its application, in clinical practice for a holistic approach to health and well-being.
(941) 584-4760 View (941) 584-4760
Photo of Leigh O'Rourke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh O'Rourke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over thirty years. My practice consists primarily of individuals (adults and adolescents) dealing with depression, anxiety, loss and low self-esteem. I also work with couples and families struggling with relationship and transition issues.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over thirty years. My practice consists primarily of individuals (adults and adolescents) dealing with depression, anxiety, loss and low self-esteem. I also work with couples and families struggling with relationship and transition issues.
(941) 735-5959 View (941) 735-5959
Photo of Allison Phinney, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Allison Phinney
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
I work with a diverse group and specialize in teens, young adults and families. I am committed to neurodiversity and autonomy-affirming practices. I aim to help you and your teen navigate this ever-changing world and how it affects them as individuals, and within your family unit. I utilize different therapeutic strategies to navigate issues surrounding self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, navigating social media, and life experiences that may be challenging for neurodiverse individuals. Parents find therapeutic alliance helpful in creating a safe space to connect, refocus, and share in both a respectful and proactive manner.
I work with a diverse group and specialize in teens, young adults and families. I am committed to neurodiversity and autonomy-affirming practices. I aim to help you and your teen navigate this ever-changing world and how it affects them as individuals, and within your family unit. I utilize different therapeutic strategies to navigate issues surrounding self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, navigating social media, and life experiences that may be challenging for neurodiverse individuals. Parents find therapeutic alliance helpful in creating a safe space to connect, refocus, and share in both a respectful and proactive manner.
(941) 239-7791 View (941) 239-7791
Photo of Angela Stewart, PhD, Psychologist
Angela Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
In my 35 years as a NY licensed psychologist, I have found that most people come to psychotherapy in some degree of pain, distress or anxiety. In my office patients find a climate of ease that encourages self-disclosure and a warm therapist-patient relationship. I strive to collaborate with my patients to help identify what is really troubling them so they can develop compassion for themselves while coming to terms with their circumstances.
In my 35 years as a NY licensed psychologist, I have found that most people come to psychotherapy in some degree of pain, distress or anxiety. In my office patients find a climate of ease that encourages self-disclosure and a warm therapist-patient relationship. I strive to collaborate with my patients to help identify what is really troubling them so they can develop compassion for themselves while coming to terms with their circumstances.
(941) 200-3384 View (941) 200-3384
Photo of Hilary Hall, MA, LMHC, NBCC, Counselor
Hilary Hall
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Not accepting new clients
SO MANY CHOICES LOOKING FOR A THERAPIST. IT CAN FEEL OVERWHELMING! HOW DO YOU DECIDE? First, look for a well trained therapist with a minimum of 10 years of experience. Second, find a therapist who has graduated from an advanced training institute after their graduate program. Third, find someone who has high professional and ethical standards. Fourth, find a therapist who has a warm and comfortable office environment. Fifth, talk to the person on the phone for a few minutes to get a "feel" for their personal "style" and answer your questions.
SO MANY CHOICES LOOKING FOR A THERAPIST. IT CAN FEEL OVERWHELMING! HOW DO YOU DECIDE? First, look for a well trained therapist with a minimum of 10 years of experience. Second, find a therapist who has graduated from an advanced training institute after their graduate program. Third, find someone who has high professional and ethical standards. Fourth, find a therapist who has a warm and comfortable office environment. Fifth, talk to the person on the phone for a few minutes to get a "feel" for their personal "style" and answer your questions.
(941) 203-3396 x2 View (941) 203-3396 x2
Photo of Dr. Emily L. Robertson, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Emily L. Robertson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
I specialize in children and adolescent ADHD, defiance/oppositional concerns (e.g., tantrums, anger, hitting), emotion dysregulation, and family conflict. I offer Parent Management Training and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), as well as therapy groups with parents who need support with challenging child behaviors. Results tend to be noticed within 1-3 weeks of the start of therapy. Check out the practice website for more information: www.centerforchildbehavior.com.
I specialize in children and adolescent ADHD, defiance/oppositional concerns (e.g., tantrums, anger, hitting), emotion dysregulation, and family conflict. I offer Parent Management Training and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), as well as therapy groups with parents who need support with challenging child behaviors. Results tend to be noticed within 1-3 weeks of the start of therapy. Check out the practice website for more information: www.centerforchildbehavior.com.
(941) 213-8362 View (941) 213-8362
Photo of Mary G Davenport, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary G Davenport
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
I am a PhD Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist & aasect Certified Sex Therapist. I have been a leader in the field of family therapy and sex therapy since 1974. Trained at the University of Pennsylvania, I bring a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to my private practice in Sarasota, Florida. I provide specialized support for transgender and non-binary individuals and their families. I am dedicated to creating an environment that respects and celebrates the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientation.
I am a PhD Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist & aasect Certified Sex Therapist. I have been a leader in the field of family therapy and sex therapy since 1974. Trained at the University of Pennsylvania, I bring a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to my private practice in Sarasota, Florida. I provide specialized support for transgender and non-binary individuals and their families. I am dedicated to creating an environment that respects and celebrates the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientation.
(941) 366-3134 View (941) 366-3134
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 34236

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 34236 who prioritize treating:

87% Anxiety
81% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
69% Grief
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
62% Aetna
53% Optum

How Therapists in 34236 see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

92% Female
8% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 34236?

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.