Therapists in Phoenixville, PA

Photo of Alaina Klause, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenixville, PA
Alaina Klause
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Starting therapy can be an overwhelming process; you took the first step! I’m happy you're here. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania with a person-centered, humanistic approach that fosters an environment in which individuals can feel safe, seen, and heard. I am a Health at Every Size (HAES), gender-affirming clinician, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (& avid Swiftie). If you are looking to unpack, heal, and explore your relationship with yourself and/or with food, you come to the right place.
Starting therapy can be an overwhelming process; you took the first step! I’m happy you're here. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania with a person-centered, humanistic approach that fosters an environment in which individuals can feel safe, seen, and heard. I am a Health at Every Size (HAES), gender-affirming clinician, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (& avid Swiftie). If you are looking to unpack, heal, and explore your relationship with yourself and/or with food, you come to the right place.
(610) 298-9356 View (610) 298-9356
Photo of Kathryn Lauren Beccaria, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenixville, PA
Kathryn Lauren Beccaria
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460  (Online Only)
I am a graduate of Temple University, and Chestnut Hill College with over ten years of professional experience. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I am a mother, step mother, wife, and working professional. My counseling style is honest, nonjudgmental, and accepting. I pride myself on my relationships with my clients and try to avoid too much jargon so sessions may feel organic not robotic. You can expect me to use my sense of humor in sessions and encourage you to do the same if it helps.
I am a graduate of Temple University, and Chestnut Hill College with over ten years of professional experience. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I am a mother, step mother, wife, and working professional. My counseling style is honest, nonjudgmental, and accepting. I pride myself on my relationships with my clients and try to avoid too much jargon so sessions may feel organic not robotic. You can expect me to use my sense of humor in sessions and encourage you to do the same if it helps.
(484) 218-2443 View (484) 218-2443
Photo of Nathaniel Stuart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenixville, PA
Nathaniel Stuart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460  (Online Only)
You can’t put your finger on it, but you're sure something is wrong. You work hard to do the right things, but there is a persistent feeling of dissatisfaction. It’s as if you only exist to help others. You take on extra assignments at work even if you’re already overwhelmed. You’re always the one friends ask for favors and advice. Your family relies on you to keep everything running smoothly, and you do it all without complaining. But lately, you’ve begun to wonder what it’s all for. You want so desperately to take a moment to figure out what you want, but so many people are counting on you, and you can’t let them down.
You can’t put your finger on it, but you're sure something is wrong. You work hard to do the right things, but there is a persistent feeling of dissatisfaction. It’s as if you only exist to help others. You take on extra assignments at work even if you’re already overwhelmed. You’re always the one friends ask for favors and advice. Your family relies on you to keep everything running smoothly, and you do it all without complaining. But lately, you’ve begun to wonder what it’s all for. You want so desperately to take a moment to figure out what you want, but so many people are counting on you, and you can’t let them down.
(610) 215-2929 View (610) 215-2929
Photo of Martha Napolitana, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenixville, PA
Martha Napolitana
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
If you had a magic wand, how would your life be different? Would your child’s anxiety, fear, and struggles vanish? Could parenting become easy and conflict-free? When your child or adolescent struggles with behavioral, emotional, and trauma issues, it affects the whole family and makes you feel powerless and overwhelmed. Welcome to Invictus Counseling! I work with children, teens, and parents to address behaviors, emotions, and trauma and develop goals to overcome those obstacles. There’s no magic wand – but there is a way to help, to nurture, and to improve.
If you had a magic wand, how would your life be different? Would your child’s anxiety, fear, and struggles vanish? Could parenting become easy and conflict-free? When your child or adolescent struggles with behavioral, emotional, and trauma issues, it affects the whole family and makes you feel powerless and overwhelmed. Welcome to Invictus Counseling! I work with children, teens, and parents to address behaviors, emotions, and trauma and develop goals to overcome those obstacles. There’s no magic wand – but there is a way to help, to nurture, and to improve.
(610) 890-8746 View (610) 890-8746
Photo of Laird Family Counseling, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenixville, PA
Laird Family Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, working with children, adolescents, families and couples and individual clients. I utilize principles of family systems theory with all clients and believe the family dynamic of every client system is central to client progress. I want to help you learn how to break the negative cycles in your life and help you to live the authentic, healthy and happy life you deserve.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, working with children, adolescents, families and couples and individual clients. I utilize principles of family systems theory with all clients and believe the family dynamic of every client system is central to client progress. I want to help you learn how to break the negative cycles in your life and help you to live the authentic, healthy and happy life you deserve.
(610) 643-4088 View (610) 643-4088
Photo of Heather McDermond, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenixville, PA
Heather McDermond, NCC, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
In our lives, we may struggle with anxiety, depression, or stress. If you are feeling distressed from life's uncertainties, counseling may benefit you. In my practice, I work collaboratively with you to identify specific needs that you believe are causing stress and discomfort in your life. My approach is to be an active guide to help you identify your strengths that you already possess, and then utilize those strengths to reach your fullest potential. I utilize research based techniques to help increase your self-awareness and challenge your negative counterproductive patterns to help you achieve your therapeutic goals.
In our lives, we may struggle with anxiety, depression, or stress. If you are feeling distressed from life's uncertainties, counseling may benefit you. In my practice, I work collaboratively with you to identify specific needs that you believe are causing stress and discomfort in your life. My approach is to be an active guide to help you identify your strengths that you already possess, and then utilize those strengths to reach your fullest potential. I utilize research based techniques to help increase your self-awareness and challenge your negative counterproductive patterns to help you achieve your therapeutic goals.
(484) 556-4200 View (484) 556-4200
Photo of The Mindful Brand, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenixville, PA
The Mindful Brand
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460  (Online Only)
The ideal client is navigating the complexities of chronic stress and anxiety, seeking effective coping mechanisms to achieve a sustainable work-life balance and prevent burnout. They are deeply motivated by personal growth, looking for guidance and support to navigate their path towards self-improvement and fulfillment. Their ultimate goal is to attain a state of mental well-being, feeling empowered to manage life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.
The ideal client is navigating the complexities of chronic stress and anxiety, seeking effective coping mechanisms to achieve a sustainable work-life balance and prevent burnout. They are deeply motivated by personal growth, looking for guidance and support to navigate their path towards self-improvement and fulfillment. Their ultimate goal is to attain a state of mental well-being, feeling empowered to manage life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.
(484) 917-0412 x19460 View (484) 917-0412 x19460
Photo of Tina Leboffe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenixville, PA
Tina Leboffe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCATP, ADHD-CP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Do you feel unsatisfied with the way your life is going? I work with those in their 20s & 30s who are dealing with the anxieties that come with new life phases. Maybe you’re adjusting to post-grad life or starting a new job. Or you’re looking to set boundaries as you gain independence from your family. I’m here to help you bridge the gap between your life now and what you want your life to look like, while also giving meaning to the experiences that led you to where you are. I not only bring educational & professional experience to my practice, but also empathy & realness that comes from confronting my own personal challenges.
Do you feel unsatisfied with the way your life is going? I work with those in their 20s & 30s who are dealing with the anxieties that come with new life phases. Maybe you’re adjusting to post-grad life or starting a new job. Or you’re looking to set boundaries as you gain independence from your family. I’m here to help you bridge the gap between your life now and what you want your life to look like, while also giving meaning to the experiences that led you to where you are. I not only bring educational & professional experience to my practice, but also empathy & realness that comes from confronting my own personal challenges.
(610) 572-4989 View (610) 572-4989
Photo of Marci Kennell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenixville, PA
Marci Kennell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460  (Online Only)
Something has to change and you are ready for it! This is not how you want to continue living your life. Maybe you are feeling completely overwhelmed with anxiety, desperate to break old patterns, and/or ready to process difficult life experiences. I am here to support your journey with a very individualized and holistic approach. My style is warm, collaborative, direct, and down to earth. As a systemic licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I will help guide you in uncovering the root of the issues by exploring your foundational relationships and experiences and then work together to create sustainable change.
Something has to change and you are ready for it! This is not how you want to continue living your life. Maybe you are feeling completely overwhelmed with anxiety, desperate to break old patterns, and/or ready to process difficult life experiences. I am here to support your journey with a very individualized and holistic approach. My style is warm, collaborative, direct, and down to earth. As a systemic licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I will help guide you in uncovering the root of the issues by exploring your foundational relationships and experiences and then work together to create sustainable change.
(610) 379-1453 View (610) 379-1453
Photo of Teresa Helen Jennings, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenixville, PA
Teresa Helen Jennings
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
If you are tired of things as they are and need a change - it's time to take that step! Have you felt anxious, stressed, sad, lonely, misunderstood, disconnected, and overwhelmed? Have you come to find that your view of yourself and the way you experience relationships prevents you from finding happiness or meaning? Having a safe space - and taking the time to reflect is crucial. Reconsidering how you view yourself - and the way you relate to those around you - can shift your perspective. This can lead to personal enrichment and healthier boundaries in your life and relationships.
If you are tired of things as they are and need a change - it's time to take that step! Have you felt anxious, stressed, sad, lonely, misunderstood, disconnected, and overwhelmed? Have you come to find that your view of yourself and the way you experience relationships prevents you from finding happiness or meaning? Having a safe space - and taking the time to reflect is crucial. Reconsidering how you view yourself - and the way you relate to those around you - can shift your perspective. This can lead to personal enrichment and healthier boundaries in your life and relationships.
(484) 878-5909 View (484) 878-5909
Photo of Barbara Jacobson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenixville, PA
Barbara Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460  (Online Only)
First we will talk about your concerns and ways you’ve already tried to address your issues. During the evaluation we will create a plan that will address your current situation with respect to your history. As we evaluate patterns we can work to understand and reprocess any traumatic memories. Together we can build a connection based on trust and honesty. Your confidence will improve as we practice using creative tools and new skills. As you move forward, sessions can be scheduled at comfortable intervals to provide ongoing, affordable support for as long as you need.
First we will talk about your concerns and ways you’ve already tried to address your issues. During the evaluation we will create a plan that will address your current situation with respect to your history. As we evaluate patterns we can work to understand and reprocess any traumatic memories. Together we can build a connection based on trust and honesty. Your confidence will improve as we practice using creative tools and new skills. As you move forward, sessions can be scheduled at comfortable intervals to provide ongoing, affordable support for as long as you need.
(484) 989-9911 View (484) 989-9911
The Art of Emotion - Sarah LeBoon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QCSW, RPT-S, CAAPT
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
At The Art of Emotion, we believe in a collaborative approach to therapy. We work with our clients to create a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The Art of Emotion is the group psychotherapy practice led by Sarah A. LeBoon, MSW, LCSW, QCSW, RPT-S, CAAPT. Dedicated to providing the highest quality managed services, Ms. LeBoon offers psychotherapy and assessment for a range of emotional issues and diagnoses in the office or remotely.
At The Art of Emotion, we believe in a collaborative approach to therapy. We work with our clients to create a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The Art of Emotion is the group psychotherapy practice led by Sarah A. LeBoon, MSW, LCSW, QCSW, RPT-S, CAAPT. Dedicated to providing the highest quality managed services, Ms. LeBoon offers psychotherapy and assessment for a range of emotional issues and diagnoses in the office or remotely.
(484) 319-4159 View (484) 319-4159
Nancy King LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
I am an eclectic therapist who will help you focus on the big picture of the issues you bring to the session. Your defining problem is seen as multifaceted, so a holistic approach with an insight into: family of origin, developmental stage of life, physical wellbeing and personal goals is the foundation of our plan for sucess. A solution-focused philosophy helps the work to be efficient and short term.
I am an eclectic therapist who will help you focus on the big picture of the issues you bring to the session. Your defining problem is seen as multifaceted, so a holistic approach with an insight into: family of origin, developmental stage of life, physical wellbeing and personal goals is the foundation of our plan for sucess. A solution-focused philosophy helps the work to be efficient and short term.
(610) 880-2307 View (610) 880-2307
Renue Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
At Renue Counseling, we offer therapy services tailored to adults, teens, and tweens, helping them navigate life's challenges and discover their inner strength. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, our therapists are here to support you every step of the way. In addition to therapy, Renue Counseling provides psychiatric medication management services for children ages 6 and above and adults. Our experienced psychiatric provider works closely with clients to ensure safe and effective treatment, helping them find the right balance of medication.
At Renue Counseling, we offer therapy services tailored to adults, teens, and tweens, helping them navigate life's challenges and discover their inner strength. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, our therapists are here to support you every step of the way. In addition to therapy, Renue Counseling provides psychiatric medication management services for children ages 6 and above and adults. Our experienced psychiatric provider works closely with clients to ensure safe and effective treatment, helping them find the right balance of medication.
(484) 662-4116 View (484) 662-4116
Photo of The Adolescent Connection Life Coaching in Phoenixville, PA
The Adolescent Connection Life Coaching
MEd, MCLC
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
I have specialized in helping adolescents and young adults for 30 years. I have a unique understanding of the challenges that they are trying to navigate. From social media, developing healthy relationships with friends and family making choices about their next steps in life and helping them to gain a stronger sense of self. This is a personal journey, one that I am honored to be a part of. Together we will identify the challenges that are interfering with their quality of life, then we will develop an individualized plan to move forward. I invite you to come in, have a seat, take a breath and your first step forward.
I have specialized in helping adolescents and young adults for 30 years. I have a unique understanding of the challenges that they are trying to navigate. From social media, developing healthy relationships with friends and family making choices about their next steps in life and helping them to gain a stronger sense of self. This is a personal journey, one that I am honored to be a part of. Together we will identify the challenges that are interfering with their quality of life, then we will develop an individualized plan to move forward. I invite you to come in, have a seat, take a breath and your first step forward.
(484) 601-5339 View (484) 601-5339
Photo of Victoria Bailey Blecker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenixville, PA
Victoria Bailey Blecker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Not accepting new clients
I have had the privilege for over 15 years of working with individuals, couples and families facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obesity, substance abuse, divorce, loss and life transitions. My past experience at The Renfrew Center in Philadelphia taught me to value the empowerment of my clients to grow and create happier, more fulfilling lives for themselves through the therapeutic process.
I have had the privilege for over 15 years of working with individuals, couples and families facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obesity, substance abuse, divorce, loss and life transitions. My past experience at The Renfrew Center in Philadelphia taught me to value the empowerment of my clients to grow and create happier, more fulfilling lives for themselves through the therapeutic process.
(301) 605-9892 View (301) 605-9892
Photo of Elizabeth A Bouvel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenixville, PA
Elizabeth A Bouvel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Friends and family may be your biggest resource for support. However, you may be faced with challenges and struggles, that their advice can't address. Or, they may be part of the problem. That's why it's best to turn to a professional who can provide the skill needed to help you face these challenges in an objective, nurturing environment. My years of experience have given me the opportunity to counsel many individuals, couples and families, with a wide range of issues. Let me hear from you. I'll help you get back on track.
Friends and family may be your biggest resource for support. However, you may be faced with challenges and struggles, that their advice can't address. Or, they may be part of the problem. That's why it's best to turn to a professional who can provide the skill needed to help you face these challenges in an objective, nurturing environment. My years of experience have given me the opportunity to counsel many individuals, couples and families, with a wide range of issues. Let me hear from you. I'll help you get back on track.
(610) 482-4759 View (610) 482-4759
Photo of Easin M Beck, Pre-Licensed Professional in Phoenixville, PA
Easin M Beck
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Are your relationships stressing you out? Do you find yourself walking on eggshells, afraid to tell people no? Do you find yourself saying yes out of guilt or obligation? I help adult children of emotionally immature parents process childhood wounds and move forward with peace, confidence, and self-compassion.
Are your relationships stressing you out? Do you find yourself walking on eggshells, afraid to tell people no? Do you find yourself saying yes out of guilt or obligation? I help adult children of emotionally immature parents process childhood wounds and move forward with peace, confidence, and self-compassion.
(484) 214-2876 View (484) 214-2876
Photo of Nicole Watts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenixville, PA
Nicole Watts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m so happy you are here. I know how hard it can be to ask for help and begin the process of discovering the root issues that are affecting your wellbeing and mental health. We will work together to create lasting change, as well as healing, and growth. Let 2024 be the year you prioritize your mental health and start living the life you want!
Hi! I’m so happy you are here. I know how hard it can be to ask for help and begin the process of discovering the root issues that are affecting your wellbeing and mental health. We will work together to create lasting change, as well as healing, and growth. Let 2024 be the year you prioritize your mental health and start living the life you want!
(610) 839-8968 View (610) 839-8968
Photo of Rory McNicholl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenixville, PA
Rory McNicholl
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Are you a young adult struggling with the transition to adulthood? Do you find yourself feeling misunderstood, alone, or unsure in your decision making? Are you looking for somewhere safe to express your thoughts and feelings without judgment or bias? You can find the support you need here in the therapy room. I can help you gain insight into yourself, develop coping strategies, and work through challenges. I’m here to walk with you and help you regain your footing. You can count on me to both validate your experience and hold you accountable to achieving goals you have for yourself.
Are you a young adult struggling with the transition to adulthood? Do you find yourself feeling misunderstood, alone, or unsure in your decision making? Are you looking for somewhere safe to express your thoughts and feelings without judgment or bias? You can find the support you need here in the therapy room. I can help you gain insight into yourself, develop coping strategies, and work through challenges. I’m here to walk with you and help you regain your footing. You can count on me to both validate your experience and hold you accountable to achieving goals you have for yourself.
(484) 316-7218 View (484) 316-7218

See more therapy options for Phoenixville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Phoenixville, PA

100+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Phoenixville, PA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
89% Depression
84% Self Esteem
83% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
66% Highmark
56% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Phoenixville, PA see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Phoenixville?

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.