Therapists in 96721

Photo of Kevin Faust - Akahai Emotional Wellness, LLC, Counselor
Akahai Emotional Wellness, LLC
Counselor
1 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96721
Akahai Emotional Wellness is a group practice with therapists who have varied professional experience, training, and specialties. Please email us letting us know your current issues, your plan to cover the cost of therapy (insurance or self-pay), and any other requests or requirements you may have for therapy. This helps us match you with the right therapist for YOU. Visit our website to learn more about who we are and what we do. We work with adults and children, and are able to offer couples counseling. Also ask about our sliding scale fees and the possibility of drastically reduced or FREE therapy with a counselor-in-training!
Akahai Emotional Wellness is a group practice with therapists who have varied professional experience, training, and specialties. Please email us letting us know your current issues, your plan to cover the cost of therapy (insurance or self-pay), and any other requests or requirements you may have for therapy. This helps us match you with the right therapist for YOU. Visit our website to learn more about who we are and what we do. We work with adults and children, and are able to offer couples counseling. Also ask about our sliding scale fees and the possibility of drastically reduced or FREE therapy with a counselor-in-training!
(808) 278-9416 View (808) 278-9416
Photo of Cheri Jorgensen, Counselor, LMHC, RSP
Cheri Jorgensen
Counselor, LMHC, RSP
Serves Area
Aloha. Are you looking for deep healing from trauma experiences, domestic violence, anxiety or depression and patterns of behavior that no longer serve you? I'm here to help you move towards wholeness in a safe, supportive, compassionate relationship. I offer traditional talk therapies, CBT, solution-focused, client-centered, as well as Sandplay therapy for deeper processing of emotions and experiences that may be beyond words. I look forward to meeting you, hearing your story and partnering with you in your journey of becoming your full and complete Self. I work with both children and adults and provide play therapy as well.
Aloha. Are you looking for deep healing from trauma experiences, domestic violence, anxiety or depression and patterns of behavior that no longer serve you? I'm here to help you move towards wholeness in a safe, supportive, compassionate relationship. I offer traditional talk therapies, CBT, solution-focused, client-centered, as well as Sandplay therapy for deeper processing of emotions and experiences that may be beyond words. I look forward to meeting you, hearing your story and partnering with you in your journey of becoming your full and complete Self. I work with both children and adults and provide play therapy as well.
(808) 518-2305 View (808) 518-2305
Photo of Cornelia Waiau, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cornelia Waiau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I assist couples as well as individuals to improve their communication and relationship skills. Honesty and respect for ourselves and others is the key to successful outcome.I implement the Gottman method in relationship therapy and believe that this approach can successfully improve any relationship. It is very applicable in situations where mediation and/or co parenting is indicated. I have experience in cross cultural concerns, abuse and domestic violence situations, depression, anxiety and trauma related situations.
I assist couples as well as individuals to improve their communication and relationship skills. Honesty and respect for ourselves and others is the key to successful outcome.I implement the Gottman method in relationship therapy and believe that this approach can successfully improve any relationship. It is very applicable in situations where mediation and/or co parenting is indicated. I have experience in cross cultural concerns, abuse and domestic violence situations, depression, anxiety and trauma related situations.
(808) 419-3846 View (808) 419-3846
Photo of Rebecca Keolanui, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Rebecca Keolanui
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
This life journey, so full of potential joy, grace and human intimacy, is a winding road. Exploring what keeps us from optimal positive relations and personal peace, health, and acceptance is what my work embodies. Each of us has unique strengths and challenges. My experience is working with depression, anxiety/stress, trauma/PTSD, relationship, parenting and family issues, grief and loss, life transitions, and spiritual crisis. I advocate and am available for premarital sessions for couples.
This life journey, so full of potential joy, grace and human intimacy, is a winding road. Exploring what keeps us from optimal positive relations and personal peace, health, and acceptance is what my work embodies. Each of us has unique strengths and challenges. My experience is working with depression, anxiety/stress, trauma/PTSD, relationship, parenting and family issues, grief and loss, life transitions, and spiritual crisis. I advocate and am available for premarital sessions for couples.
(808) 731-1634 View (808) 731-1634
Photo of Kai Hansen, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kai Hansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
My approach focuses on addressing immediate symptom relief and current life problems with an emphasis on identifying underlying emotional causes that may be contributing to these difficulties. My practice presumes that understanding psychological conflicts underlying unpleasant negative behaviors and/or emotions will help people gain important understanding into their current problems and, consequently, lead them to make considerable changes in their lives.
My approach focuses on addressing immediate symptom relief and current life problems with an emphasis on identifying underlying emotional causes that may be contributing to these difficulties. My practice presumes that understanding psychological conflicts underlying unpleasant negative behaviors and/or emotions will help people gain important understanding into their current problems and, consequently, lead them to make considerable changes in their lives.
(808) 731-1368 View (808) 731-1368
Photo of Kevin Faust, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, NCC, NATC, CCTP-II
Kevin Faust
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, NCC, NATC, CCTP-II
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Psychological trauma occurs when our level of stress exceeds our ability to cope with that stress. This often creates a dysregulated nervous system (stuck in "fight-or-flight" survival mode) that can leave us with anxiety, depression, ADHD, memory issues, confusion, dissociation, PTSD & CPTSD, or just feeling "stuck." I specialize in working with women who have been the target of domestic violence or narcissistic abuse from men. This type of abuse is sometimes difficult to see clearly. You may wonder if this is your fault or even have thoughts that this is what you deserve. I'd like to help you find clarity in all of this.
Psychological trauma occurs when our level of stress exceeds our ability to cope with that stress. This often creates a dysregulated nervous system (stuck in "fight-or-flight" survival mode) that can leave us with anxiety, depression, ADHD, memory issues, confusion, dissociation, PTSD & CPTSD, or just feeling "stuck." I specialize in working with women who have been the target of domestic violence or narcissistic abuse from men. This type of abuse is sometimes difficult to see clearly. You may wonder if this is your fault or even have thoughts that this is what you deserve. I'd like to help you find clarity in all of this.
(808) 207-6857 View (808) 207-6857
Photo of Dr. Bella McCloud - Holistic Therapy Center, LLC, Psychologist, PsyD
Holistic Therapy Center, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Midlife can be a season of profound change– it's a powerful threshold for many women in the stage brings profound shifts: the end of a marriage, children leaving home, menopause, or a quiet but persistent questioning of identity and purpose. If you find yourself asking, "who am I now?" – You are not alone. I specialize in supporting women in midlife as they navigate these transitions with compassion, curiosity, and courage. My approach is grounded in depth orientation, the unconscious, personal mythology, and the souls unfolding journey. This depth oriented lens allows us to move into meaningful, and lasting, transformation.
Midlife can be a season of profound change– it's a powerful threshold for many women in the stage brings profound shifts: the end of a marriage, children leaving home, menopause, or a quiet but persistent questioning of identity and purpose. If you find yourself asking, "who am I now?" – You are not alone. I specialize in supporting women in midlife as they navigate these transitions with compassion, curiosity, and courage. My approach is grounded in depth orientation, the unconscious, personal mythology, and the souls unfolding journey. This depth oriented lens allows us to move into meaningful, and lasting, transformation.
(808) 480-7833 View (808) 480-7833
Photo of Dr. Malia Daniel, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Malia Daniel
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Is your mind often focused on difficult experiences from the past, to the point that you can no longer enjoy the present? People respond to trauma in various ways. You might find yourself distracted, hypervigilant, or discouraged. You might struggle with your work, relationships, or simply moving through your daily life. I know this can be overwhelming and discouraging. Fortunately, there are treatments that help. My clients and I function as a team, determined to get at the cause of symptoms and work on real healing work. Even if it feels impossible right now, you can get better and live a fuller, more meaningful life.
Is your mind often focused on difficult experiences from the past, to the point that you can no longer enjoy the present? People respond to trauma in various ways. You might find yourself distracted, hypervigilant, or discouraged. You might struggle with your work, relationships, or simply moving through your daily life. I know this can be overwhelming and discouraging. Fortunately, there are treatments that help. My clients and I function as a team, determined to get at the cause of symptoms and work on real healing work. Even if it feels impossible right now, you can get better and live a fuller, more meaningful life.
(808) 818-5158 View (808) 818-5158
Photo of Gwendolynne Simeone, LSW
Gwendolynne Simeone
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I'm truly glad you’re here. You may be navigating overwhelming emotions, questioning your identity, struggling with intimacy, or facing challenges that feel too heavy to carry alone. Maybe you feel lost or disconnected, but also hold a quiet hope for change. Whether you're wrestling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or exploring issues related to sexuality or sexual dysfunction, you don’t have to face it all by yourself. Once you are fully seen and heard—free from judgment—you can begin healing at your own pace.
Welcome! I'm truly glad you’re here. You may be navigating overwhelming emotions, questioning your identity, struggling with intimacy, or facing challenges that feel too heavy to carry alone. Maybe you feel lost or disconnected, but also hold a quiet hope for change. Whether you're wrestling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or exploring issues related to sexuality or sexual dysfunction, you don’t have to face it all by yourself. Once you are fully seen and heard—free from judgment—you can begin healing at your own pace.
(808) 229-3783 View (808) 229-3783
Photo of Jasmine E Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jasmine E Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Most psychotherapy approaches do not lead to liberation. They assist in working on an illusory self, yet suffering and dis-ease is linked to this self. The present moment is empty and luminous, an eternal flow state bursting with awe. We can feel cut off from vivid lived experience when we are mind-identified and stuck in the thought world. Noise from the false self is loud and exhausting. We will address unfinished business, integrate the shadow, make the unconscious obsolete as all is invited into conscious awareness, and set our own selves free. I facilitate lovingly, but you are the guru now. Heal Yourself; I hold the container.
Most psychotherapy approaches do not lead to liberation. They assist in working on an illusory self, yet suffering and dis-ease is linked to this self. The present moment is empty and luminous, an eternal flow state bursting with awe. We can feel cut off from vivid lived experience when we are mind-identified and stuck in the thought world. Noise from the false self is loud and exhausting. We will address unfinished business, integrate the shadow, make the unconscious obsolete as all is invited into conscious awareness, and set our own selves free. I facilitate lovingly, but you are the guru now. Heal Yourself; I hold the container.
(808) 736-6396 View (808) 736-6396

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rob Blinn, Psychologist, PhD, MA, SEP
Rob Blinn
Psychologist, PhD, MA, SEP
5 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720
My favorite modalities of therapy are Somatic Experiencing and NARM, whole body modalities that involve greater focus on physical sensation, emotion, the felt sense, and incomplete motor programs. Both have grounding in modern neuropsychology. I have found that these techniques enhance a person's journey to integration. I have a background in Jungian work and also have a MA in Folklore and Mythology. I enjoy working with clients who have an interest in somatics, story, and healing from anxiety and trauma. I have done a great deal of men's work and enjoy helping men recover from depression and difficult relationships.
My favorite modalities of therapy are Somatic Experiencing and NARM, whole body modalities that involve greater focus on physical sensation, emotion, the felt sense, and incomplete motor programs. Both have grounding in modern neuropsychology. I have found that these techniques enhance a person's journey to integration. I have a background in Jungian work and also have a MA in Folklore and Mythology. I enjoy working with clients who have an interest in somatics, story, and healing from anxiety and trauma. I have done a great deal of men's work and enjoy helping men recover from depression and difficult relationships.
(208) 328-5259 View (208) 328-5259
Amanda Makio
Counselor, LMHC
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha, my name is Amanda Makio, I have been a resident on Hawaii Island since 2014 serving the community in a variety of counseling and advocacy positions. I have worked with teens who struggled with traditional school and justice involvement as well as their families. My experience is with underserved populations including foster youth, incarcerated women, sexual assault survivors and victims of crime. I am currently getting back into individual counseling after years of support group facilitation and victim offender conferencing.
Aloha, my name is Amanda Makio, I have been a resident on Hawaii Island since 2014 serving the community in a variety of counseling and advocacy positions. I have worked with teens who struggled with traditional school and justice involvement as well as their families. My experience is with underserved populations including foster youth, incarcerated women, sexual assault survivors and victims of crime. I am currently getting back into individual counseling after years of support group facilitation and victim offender conferencing.
(808) 435-5381 View (808) 435-5381
Photo of Tiana Weinmann - Kona Counseling and Wellness LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kona Counseling and Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and care. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and develop tools for lasting change.
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and care. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and develop tools for lasting change.
(808) 765-3442 View (808) 765-3442
Photo of Yvonne M Bryght - Bryght Coaching & Counseling Services, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Bryght Coaching & Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720
I work with individuals, couples & groups as a psychotherapist, business coach, and energy intuitive since 1995. My work tends to the deep needs of the soul and addresses the most basic ego scripts so that you can shift cellular memories, rediscover your true voice, reconnect with your healthiest sense of self and remember your deepest callings--and then find the freedom to seek and find your best and highest self. I facilitate both Family Constellations and Organizational (business) Constellations on-line and in workshops that open you to engage with your deepest creativity and free you from repeating negative patterns.
I work with individuals, couples & groups as a psychotherapist, business coach, and energy intuitive since 1995. My work tends to the deep needs of the soul and addresses the most basic ego scripts so that you can shift cellular memories, rediscover your true voice, reconnect with your healthiest sense of self and remember your deepest callings--and then find the freedom to seek and find your best and highest self. I facilitate both Family Constellations and Organizational (business) Constellations on-line and in workshops that open you to engage with your deepest creativity and free you from repeating negative patterns.
(253) 200-6709 View (253) 200-6709
Photo of Leisha Ishikawa, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, APCC
Leisha Ishikawa
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, APCC
1 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720
I support adults and older adults navigating life transitions, grief, caregiver stress, and mental health challenges. My background includes working with kūpuna (55+) living with serious mental illness and substance use, as well as young adult parents facing trauma and life stressors.
I support adults and older adults navigating life transitions, grief, caregiver stress, and mental health challenges. My background includes working with kūpuna (55+) living with serious mental illness and substance use, as well as young adult parents facing trauma and life stressors.
(808) 758-5276 View (808) 758-5276
Photo of Shari Tresky, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Shari Tresky
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Hilo, HI 96720
When painful thoughts and emotions arise, they can make us feel paralyzed and helpless. We think about a bad experience and feel the same agony again! We worry about the future and feel anxious about imaginary events! We want to get rid of those feelings and thoughts, but it's like trying to plug a high pressure leak and the water finds the weakest spot to burst out again! What else can we do? We can accept feelings with compassion because they show us what we find most important. We can observe thoughts and CHOOSE the ones to act on. We can increase our mental flexibility, so we are not trapped in misery inside our own minds.
When painful thoughts and emotions arise, they can make us feel paralyzed and helpless. We think about a bad experience and feel the same agony again! We worry about the future and feel anxious about imaginary events! We want to get rid of those feelings and thoughts, but it's like trying to plug a high pressure leak and the water finds the weakest spot to burst out again! What else can we do? We can accept feelings with compassion because they show us what we find most important. We can observe thoughts and CHOOSE the ones to act on. We can increase our mental flexibility, so we are not trapped in misery inside our own minds.
(808) 896-4121 View (808) 896-4121
Photo of Megan Denes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Megan Denes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hilo, HI 96720
I have worked in behavioral and mental health settings for the past seven years and I am licensed in the state of Hawaii and Florida. Much of my experience has been working with children and adolescents, with some additional experience working with adults. During this time, I have helped individuals navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and self-esteem.
I have worked in behavioral and mental health settings for the past seven years and I am licensed in the state of Hawaii and Florida. Much of my experience has been working with children and adolescents, with some additional experience working with adults. During this time, I have helped individuals navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and self-esteem.
(808) 736-5981 View (808) 736-5981
Photo of Lori Ferreira - Dr. Lori Ferreira, LMHC, NCC, Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC
Dr. Lori Ferreira, LMHC, NCC
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC
Serves Area
I provide services throughout the state of Hawai’i, all islands are welcomed! I know finding a therapist can be a daunting task. I hope this profile will help you take the first step in prioritizing your emotional wellbeing to live a more meaningful life. The most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between you and I. My approach to therapy is focused on the unique needs of the individual and/or the family from a person-centered/ humanistic lens. My therapeutic foundation is centered on my cultural background, and built upon the platform of Lōkahi.
I provide services throughout the state of Hawai’i, all islands are welcomed! I know finding a therapist can be a daunting task. I hope this profile will help you take the first step in prioritizing your emotional wellbeing to live a more meaningful life. The most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between you and I. My approach to therapy is focused on the unique needs of the individual and/or the family from a person-centered/ humanistic lens. My therapeutic foundation is centered on my cultural background, and built upon the platform of Lōkahi.
(866) 659-1083 View (866) 659-1083
Photo of Marina Ignacio - Mana Counseling and Coaching, LLC, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Mana Counseling and Coaching, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha! I work with a wide range of clients, including children, adolescents, adults, and couples managing behavioral and mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as complex social and relationship difficulties. I'm dedicated to providing specialized support to the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the unique experiences and distinct set of challenges this population often navigates. I also hold extensive and unique experience working with forensic issues and individuals involved in the criminal justice system, providing therapy for substance abuse, addiction, and sexual offenses.
Aloha! I work with a wide range of clients, including children, adolescents, adults, and couples managing behavioral and mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, as well as complex social and relationship difficulties. I'm dedicated to providing specialized support to the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the unique experiences and distinct set of challenges this population often navigates. I also hold extensive and unique experience working with forensic issues and individuals involved in the criminal justice system, providing therapy for substance abuse, addiction, and sexual offenses.
(808) 320-1466 View (808) 320-1466
Photo of Michelle Fratinardo, Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Michelle Fratinardo
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Hilo, HI 96720
Born and raised on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, Michelle, carries with her a profound understanding of the daily challenges faced by individuals and families in her community. Her approach to therapy is warm, grounding, and deeply collaborative. Drawing from mindfulness, narrative therapy, and solution-focused techniques, she creates a space where clients can slow down, notice what arises in their minds and bodies, and explore the stories they carry. She believes in helping clients reconnect with their inner wisdom and strengths, clarifying their values, setting meaningful goals, and taking intentional steps forward.
Born and raised on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, Michelle, carries with her a profound understanding of the daily challenges faced by individuals and families in her community. Her approach to therapy is warm, grounding, and deeply collaborative. Drawing from mindfulness, narrative therapy, and solution-focused techniques, she creates a space where clients can slow down, notice what arises in their minds and bodies, and explore the stories they carry. She believes in helping clients reconnect with their inner wisdom and strengths, clarifying their values, setting meaningful goals, and taking intentional steps forward.
(808) 646-3871 View (808) 646-3871

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 96721

10+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in 96721 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
90% Relationship Issues
90% Grief
90% Women's Issues
80% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Hawaii Medical Services Association
40% BlueCross and BlueShield
40% Hawaii Medical Assurance Association

How Therapists in 96721 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 96721?

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.