Therapists in 96826

Photo of Alben Y Sekimura - Advantage Psychological Center Inc., Psychologist, PhD
Advantage Psychological Center Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Honolulu, HI 96826
When you feel that the stress in your life has been adding up and you are experiencing feelings of anxiety and depression or if you are having difficulties in your relationships it is often helpful to get assistance. Clients are provided with a safe, supportive, collaborative and empowering environment to acquire the insight and coping skills to effectively deal with the challenges in their lives. Proactive strategies are also discussed in helping to resolve issues and to promote healthy communication in relationships. Everyone deserves "peace of mind" and we are dedicated to helping you to achieve this.
When you feel that the stress in your life has been adding up and you are experiencing feelings of anxiety and depression or if you are having difficulties in your relationships it is often helpful to get assistance. Clients are provided with a safe, supportive, collaborative and empowering environment to acquire the insight and coping skills to effectively deal with the challenges in their lives. Proactive strategies are also discussed in helping to resolve issues and to promote healthy communication in relationships. Everyone deserves "peace of mind" and we are dedicated to helping you to achieve this.
(808) 955-1414 View (808) 955-1414
Photo of Natalia T A Villegas, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Natalia T A Villegas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Honolulu, HI 96826
Expectations, day-to-day stressors, and generational/cultural impacts can create a heaviness you sometimes donʻt recognize until it feels like too much. Maybe you do feel the heaviness as it gets bigger, but are unsure of how to put it down or feel guilty in even naming it. You might experience unexpected anger or notice more conflict in relationships. Imagine a space where some of that heaviness can be lifted for a moment, giving you time to pause and redefine what pieces are important to pick back up. Together, weʻll pull in resiliencies and threads of strength that may have been forgotten along the way.
Expectations, day-to-day stressors, and generational/cultural impacts can create a heaviness you sometimes donʻt recognize until it feels like too much. Maybe you do feel the heaviness as it gets bigger, but are unsure of how to put it down or feel guilty in even naming it. You might experience unexpected anger or notice more conflict in relationships. Imagine a space where some of that heaviness can be lifted for a moment, giving you time to pause and redefine what pieces are important to pick back up. Together, weʻll pull in resiliencies and threads of strength that may have been forgotten along the way.
(808) 353-4683 View (808) 353-4683
Photo of Karisa Yoshida, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MSCP, MFT-I
Karisa Yoshida
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MSCP, MFT-I
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96826
I've worked with clients addressing stressful life transitions, relationship challenges, domestic or intimate partner abuse, and grief. Clients have approached therapy with different levels of experience, including newcomers, returning after a break, or those mandated by court. Throughout these interactions, compassion, kindness, and self-acceptance have been consistent elements. I collaborate with clients right from the start, providing 15 to 30 minutes of consultation to listen to your concerns, address any questions, and offer referrals if I'm not the best match for your needs.
I've worked with clients addressing stressful life transitions, relationship challenges, domestic or intimate partner abuse, and grief. Clients have approached therapy with different levels of experience, including newcomers, returning after a break, or those mandated by court. Throughout these interactions, compassion, kindness, and self-acceptance have been consistent elements. I collaborate with clients right from the start, providing 15 to 30 minutes of consultation to listen to your concerns, address any questions, and offer referrals if I'm not the best match for your needs.
(808) 720-2124 View (808) 720-2124
Photo of Daniel Chow, Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, LMFT
Daniel Chow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96826
Waitlist for new clients
There are many changes in the ebbs and flows of life that can bring us to a place where we realize we’re stuck and don’t know how to move forward. Part of the reason I became a therapist was my own experience needing help to gain perspective and grow when I felt like I couldn’t see where else to go. Now I seek to connect with the clients I serve to help them feel seen and explore new paths together. I specialize in helping you recognize emotional patterns that you may be struggling with and providing inspiration to build new ones.
There are many changes in the ebbs and flows of life that can bring us to a place where we realize we’re stuck and don’t know how to move forward. Part of the reason I became a therapist was my own experience needing help to gain perspective and grow when I felt like I couldn’t see where else to go. Now I seek to connect with the clients I serve to help them feel seen and explore new paths together. I specialize in helping you recognize emotional patterns that you may be struggling with and providing inspiration to build new ones.
(808) 207-7403 View (808) 207-7403
Photo of Arika Mibu-Briou, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Arika Mibu-Briou
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Honolulu, HI 96826
With 20 years of experience in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy, I am one of the few Japanese-English bilingual, Marriage and Family Therapists in the State of Hawaii. I provide therapeutic services to adults and children with a systemic focus on intercultural relationships, teenagers and their family systems, and preventive care for mothers in various stages of their motherhood. I have led Mauli Ola Care, a private psychotherapeutic practice since 2008 and have also provided clinical supervision for post-graduate therapists for their MFT licensure.
With 20 years of experience in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy, I am one of the few Japanese-English bilingual, Marriage and Family Therapists in the State of Hawaii. I provide therapeutic services to adults and children with a systemic focus on intercultural relationships, teenagers and their family systems, and preventive care for mothers in various stages of their motherhood. I have led Mauli Ola Care, a private psychotherapeutic practice since 2008 and have also provided clinical supervision for post-graduate therapists for their MFT licensure.
(808) 556-6312 View (808) 556-6312
Photo of Marisa Kamada, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Marisa Kamada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96826
Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed and not sure how to deal with the unexpected situations life has thrown your way? Life can surprise us with situations that we may at times least expect. This may lead to us experiencing a variety of emotions that may leave us feeling stuck and often times hurt. I offer a safe, honest, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive environment, which I believe is essential to the therapeutic healing journey and to building a trusting therapeutic relationship.
Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed and not sure how to deal with the unexpected situations life has thrown your way? Life can surprise us with situations that we may at times least expect. This may lead to us experiencing a variety of emotions that may leave us feeling stuck and often times hurt. I offer a safe, honest, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive environment, which I believe is essential to the therapeutic healing journey and to building a trusting therapeutic relationship.
(808) 518-2339 View (808) 518-2339
Photo of Chuck Liu, Psychologist, PhD
Chuck Liu
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Do you feel like life could be fuller? Do you have physical symptoms like headaches, difficulty sleeping, or low energy? Perhaps you've tried your best yet see no change, or notice your relationships suffering? Maybe Covid-19 just made everything come to surface. Whether battling with depression, anxiety, or faith or family-related stressors, I can work with you to explore, identify connections and gain life-changing skills, healing and strength.
Do you feel like life could be fuller? Do you have physical symptoms like headaches, difficulty sleeping, or low energy? Perhaps you've tried your best yet see no change, or notice your relationships suffering? Maybe Covid-19 just made everything come to surface. Whether battling with depression, anxiety, or faith or family-related stressors, I can work with you to explore, identify connections and gain life-changing skills, healing and strength.
(331) 207-1964 View (331) 207-1964
Photo of Jennifer Quinn-Hastings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jennifer Quinn-Hastings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Are you looking to make changes but don't know where to start? Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, questioning your decisions or feel like you have no support? Have you gone through traumatic experiences that you realize are affecting you now? No matter what path you've been on, life events can be holding you hostage and you may not even know it. I strive to empower you by building off your strengths so you can discover who you really are... or want to be.
Are you looking to make changes but don't know where to start? Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, questioning your decisions or feel like you have no support? Have you gone through traumatic experiences that you realize are affecting you now? No matter what path you've been on, life events can be holding you hostage and you may not even know it. I strive to empower you by building off your strengths so you can discover who you really are... or want to be.
(808) 204-4752 View (808) 204-4752
Photo of Melanie Van der Tuin - Mandala Integrative Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Melanie Van der Tuin - Mandala Integrative Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96826
Waitlist for new clients
Returning to office May 29; waitlisting clients for June. Welcome and congratulations: you did it! You stayed present for that pivotal moment when your heart told you the time for change is now. Whether you are struggling with pain, anxiety, grief, depression, rumination, fallout from a trauma or life challenge, or a pattern that no longer serves; change and healing are accessible to you. I invite you to come as you are; I offer a safe, welcoming space for you to share all you may be carrying. I am here to listen and support you in finding and traveling the path forward to growth and thriving.
Returning to office May 29; waitlisting clients for June. Welcome and congratulations: you did it! You stayed present for that pivotal moment when your heart told you the time for change is now. Whether you are struggling with pain, anxiety, grief, depression, rumination, fallout from a trauma or life challenge, or a pattern that no longer serves; change and healing are accessible to you. I invite you to come as you are; I offer a safe, welcoming space for you to share all you may be carrying. I am here to listen and support you in finding and traveling the path forward to growth and thriving.
(808) 320-1474 View (808) 320-1474
Photo of Greg Lippert - Community Empowerment Resources, LMHC, MAC, CSAC, QMHP, LCSW
Community Empowerment Resources
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96826
Our Intensive Outpatient Program offers experienced support for substance use disorders and dual diagnosis. Looking for a supportive environment that builds on communication, socialization, and peer accountability? Our diverse group types cater to an array of client needs including psychoeducation, CBT, recovery skills development, and relapse prevention. Individual counseling addresses immediate issues, supports abstinence goals, and respects cultural differences. We strive to offer a private and holistic path to recovery.
Our Intensive Outpatient Program offers experienced support for substance use disorders and dual diagnosis. Looking for a supportive environment that builds on communication, socialization, and peer accountability? Our diverse group types cater to an array of client needs including psychoeducation, CBT, recovery skills development, and relapse prevention. Individual counseling addresses immediate issues, supports abstinence goals, and respects cultural differences. We strive to offer a private and holistic path to recovery.
(808) 563-4365 View (808) 563-4365
Photo of Dr. Yurie Igarashi Van Dermark, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Yurie Igarashi Van Dermark
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, and I deeply respect your courage in exploring this step. Therapy is a personal journey, and I strive to create a safe space that feels safe and supportive, where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with care and without fear of judgment. My goal is to guide you to overcome challenges and support you in building a life aligned with your values and aspirations. My background includes working with adults from diverse backgrounds facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, identity, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, and trauma.
Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, and I deeply respect your courage in exploring this step. Therapy is a personal journey, and I strive to create a safe space that feels safe and supportive, where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with care and without fear of judgment. My goal is to guide you to overcome challenges and support you in building a life aligned with your values and aspirations. My background includes working with adults from diverse backgrounds facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, identity, interpersonal relationship issues, life transitions, and trauma.
(808) 758-5174 View (808) 758-5174
Photo of Dr. Blendine P Hawkins, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Dr. Blendine P Hawkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
6 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96826
Do you feel like you are having the same argument with your partner over and over again? Do you feel like your relationship with your partner needs a tune-up or even a rehaul? Are you looking for a safe and caring space where a therapist can help you both explore your relationship and reconnect? Have you experienced abuse in a close relationship, whether in childhood or recent, and you want someone to journey with you into healing and thriving?
Do you feel like you are having the same argument with your partner over and over again? Do you feel like your relationship with your partner needs a tune-up or even a rehaul? Are you looking for a safe and caring space where a therapist can help you both explore your relationship and reconnect? Have you experienced abuse in a close relationship, whether in childhood or recent, and you want someone to journey with you into healing and thriving?
(808) 201-6319 View (808) 201-6319
Photo of Clary Mitchell-Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Clary Mitchell-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Honolulu, HI 96826
I am a compassionate and astute therapist with over 30 years experience. Together we can explore and address all of the painful feelings and patterns that interfere with achieving happiness and effectiveness. Feelings and experiences of depression, confusion, helplessness, grief, rage,etc., can all be understood and can change.Self destructive patterns in relationshiips can be understood and worked through. Struggles with addictive and impulsive behavior can be helped enormously by working together. I work carefully and individually and really can help you to be more effective in your struggles for better self esteem and a better life.
I am a compassionate and astute therapist with over 30 years experience. Together we can explore and address all of the painful feelings and patterns that interfere with achieving happiness and effectiveness. Feelings and experiences of depression, confusion, helplessness, grief, rage,etc., can all be understood and can change.Self destructive patterns in relationshiips can be understood and worked through. Struggles with addictive and impulsive behavior can be helped enormously by working together. I work carefully and individually and really can help you to be more effective in your struggles for better self esteem and a better life.
(855) 324-1725 View (855) 324-1725
Photo of Colin Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, LMFT
Colin Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96826
Do you feel there is a disconnection in your relationship(s)? Has communication broken down, and the path to repair is unclear or uncertain? Maybe the "culture" of your relationship is not functioning as before? Each relationship is unique, bringing in different values of each person to it. Sometimes events or situations may cause a disruption to the relationship, and navigating these changes can be overwhelming. I can be a resource to help explore, discuss, and develop changes that build a "new culture" that works for you both.
Do you feel there is a disconnection in your relationship(s)? Has communication broken down, and the path to repair is unclear or uncertain? Maybe the "culture" of your relationship is not functioning as before? Each relationship is unique, bringing in different values of each person to it. Sometimes events or situations may cause a disruption to the relationship, and navigating these changes can be overwhelming. I can be a resource to help explore, discuss, and develop changes that build a "new culture" that works for you both.
(808) 207-6440 View (808) 207-6440
Photo of Lilia Ramil, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I
Lilia Ramil
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I
Honolulu, HI 96826
I personally believe that each individual has the internal knowledge, resources and wisdom to resolve their personal challenges through a deeper understanding of self and of the role they play in their key relationships. The gift I bring is the space to pause, reflect, and unlock some of the deep answers that lie within you. I humbly offer myself to walk alongside you and help you dive deeper into your own internal wisdom and help you find the answers you may be seeking. Together we will work to alleviate some of the stress, pain or worry you might be experiencing in your life and within your personal relationships.
I personally believe that each individual has the internal knowledge, resources and wisdom to resolve their personal challenges through a deeper understanding of self and of the role they play in their key relationships. The gift I bring is the space to pause, reflect, and unlock some of the deep answers that lie within you. I humbly offer myself to walk alongside you and help you dive deeper into your own internal wisdom and help you find the answers you may be seeking. Together we will work to alleviate some of the stress, pain or worry you might be experiencing in your life and within your personal relationships.
(808) 207-5403 View (808) 207-5403
Photo of Micah Kobayashi, Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, LMFT
Micah Kobayashi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96826
Mental health is just as crucial to your overall health and well being as is physical health, but often times you may not know how to “exercise” your mind in the same way that you do your body. Sometimes you may keep negative experiences, feelings, or thoughts to yourself because you worry you may burden a close friend or family member with your problems. Or perhaps, you don’t feel comfortable sharing these things with someone close to you. This may impact you in ways that you may not be consciously aware of in your daily life, or even later on in life.
Mental health is just as crucial to your overall health and well being as is physical health, but often times you may not know how to “exercise” your mind in the same way that you do your body. Sometimes you may keep negative experiences, feelings, or thoughts to yourself because you worry you may burden a close friend or family member with your problems. Or perhaps, you don’t feel comfortable sharing these things with someone close to you. This may impact you in ways that you may not be consciously aware of in your daily life, or even later on in life.
(808) 207-7824 View (808) 207-7824
Photo of Kristine Altwies, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kristine Altwies
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Honolulu, HI 96826
Whether you are feeling a little bit off your game or deeply stuck, by seeking help you're on the right path. I work to provide a safe, supportive, and calming space. For 30 years I worked in adoption and family coaching. I am experienced in trauma, parenting, infertility, gender/ sexuality/racial identity and relationship building. I use a variety of interventions, and work with clients to set goals to plan for successful outcomes. I am eager to learn about my clients, and to figure out how best to help. Thank you for taking this step!
Whether you are feeling a little bit off your game or deeply stuck, by seeking help you're on the right path. I work to provide a safe, supportive, and calming space. For 30 years I worked in adoption and family coaching. I am experienced in trauma, parenting, infertility, gender/ sexuality/racial identity and relationship building. I use a variety of interventions, and work with clients to set goals to plan for successful outcomes. I am eager to learn about my clients, and to figure out how best to help. Thank you for taking this step!
(808) 204-4582 View (808) 204-4582
Photo of Alexis Lane, Counselor, LMHC, MA
Alexis Lane
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Honolulu, HI 96826
When going through an especially hard time, it's important to have a trusted listener by your side. I offer compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental lens, and I believe it's important I offer you tools for moving forward, since I'm likely only a stop on your healing journey. I see clients dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma and believe we can work together to find the relief you need.
When going through an especially hard time, it's important to have a trusted listener by your side. I offer compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental lens, and I believe it's important I offer you tools for moving forward, since I'm likely only a stop on your healing journey. I see clients dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma and believe we can work together to find the relief you need.
(808) 468-7198 View (808) 468-7198
Photo of Charles K. L. Kamai, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAC
Charles K. L. Kamai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAC
Honolulu, HI 96826
I believe in wellness from a holistic perspective-emotional, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural. When life affects these domains, imbalance, and discord exist. I recognize our unique experiences, which influence our values, beliefs, worldview, and perceptions of ourselves and our environment. I believe in autonomy and eliciting innate strengths to navigate the uncertainties of life. The human spirit is resilient. I view therapy through a family systems lens. My foundation is Experiential, and my approach is Integrative, which ties systems theories to the unique needs of each individual and family.
I believe in wellness from a holistic perspective-emotional, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural. When life affects these domains, imbalance, and discord exist. I recognize our unique experiences, which influence our values, beliefs, worldview, and perceptions of ourselves and our environment. I believe in autonomy and eliciting innate strengths to navigate the uncertainties of life. The human spirit is resilient. I view therapy through a family systems lens. My foundation is Experiential, and my approach is Integrative, which ties systems theories to the unique needs of each individual and family.
(808) 736-1562 View (808) 736-1562
Photo of Abby Halston - Dr. Abby Halston Marriage and Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, NCC
Dr. Abby Halston Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, NCC
Honolulu, HI 96826
Life transitions — whether in your career, relationships, or personal path — can leave you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or stuck. But they don’t have to define you. With the right support, these moments can become powerful catalysts for growth and clarity. Therapy provides a safe space to explore what’s holding you back, reconnect with your strengths, and take meaningful steps forward. You don’t have to navigate this alone — lasting change starts with reaching out.
Life transitions — whether in your career, relationships, or personal path — can leave you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or stuck. But they don’t have to define you. With the right support, these moments can become powerful catalysts for growth and clarity. Therapy provides a safe space to explore what’s holding you back, reconnect with your strengths, and take meaningful steps forward. You don’t have to navigate this alone — lasting change starts with reaching out.
(808) 977-6086 View (808) 977-6086

See more therapy options for 96826

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 96826

40+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 96826 who prioritize treating:

93% Relationship Issues
86% Anxiety
82% Depression
80% Self Esteem
75% Family Conflict
75% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Hawaii Medical Services Association
85% Hawaii Medical Assurance Association
73% University Health Alliance

How Therapists in 96826 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 96826?

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.