Therapists in Forest Hills, NY

Photo of Diane Garfinkle, Psychologist in Forest Hills, NY
Diane Garfinkle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
My goal is to help, while making you feel comfortable. Each person comes in with their own unique life experience and problems. I try to work with compassion so that you will feel supported as we explore your thoughts and feelings about your past and present situations. Together we will examine ways in which you can find solutions to current probIems. Some of the most common problems I see include relationship and career issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, infertility, grief, chronic illnesses (including cancer), and elder care.
My goal is to help, while making you feel comfortable. Each person comes in with their own unique life experience and problems. I try to work with compassion so that you will feel supported as we explore your thoughts and feelings about your past and present situations. Together we will examine ways in which you can find solutions to current probIems. Some of the most common problems I see include relationship and career issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, infertility, grief, chronic illnesses (including cancer), and elder care.
(516) 962-2999 View (516) 962-2999
Photo of Lara Guida, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest Hills, NY
Lara Guida
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
My name is Lara Guida, LMSW (she/her/hers). I offer telehealth/virtual sessions for Wellness Psychotherapy Services. In my practice, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to unpack and understand what they are experiencing, and empower them to discover their strengths and recognize the tools they have that will help them achieve their potential. I focus on getting to know you as an individual, and in doing so, ensuring that the work we do together will utilize the right approach for you. I will best highlight your strengths and assist you in reaching your specific, unique goals.
My name is Lara Guida, LMSW (she/her/hers). I offer telehealth/virtual sessions for Wellness Psychotherapy Services. In my practice, I provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to unpack and understand what they are experiencing, and empower them to discover their strengths and recognize the tools they have that will help them achieve their potential. I focus on getting to know you as an individual, and in doing so, ensuring that the work we do together will utilize the right approach for you. I will best highlight your strengths and assist you in reaching your specific, unique goals.
(347) 321-8386 View (347) 321-8386
Photo of Marina Orphanides in Forest Hills, NY
Marina Orphanides
MA, MHC, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Guidance on how to cope through a difficult time, adjust to new circumstances and to re-discover who you may be in this very moment may be the initial steps to a whole new beginning. You might be going through relationship conflicts, adjusting to change or feeling like things are out of control. Anxiety symptoms may be enhanced or you feel like there is not many people you can go to that will understand. The goal is to feel at ease, to want to come to sessions and to explore unaddressed emotions, improve the ability to cope, and manage conflicts that prevent us from finding a balance. We will work together to create that balance.
Guidance on how to cope through a difficult time, adjust to new circumstances and to re-discover who you may be in this very moment may be the initial steps to a whole new beginning. You might be going through relationship conflicts, adjusting to change or feeling like things are out of control. Anxiety symptoms may be enhanced or you feel like there is not many people you can go to that will understand. The goal is to feel at ease, to want to come to sessions and to explore unaddressed emotions, improve the ability to cope, and manage conflicts that prevent us from finding a balance. We will work together to create that balance.
(347) 572-7705 View (347) 572-7705
Photo of Hal Brickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest Hills, NY
Hal Brickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RCSW, CSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
Hal’s down-to-earth wisdom and calm demeanor usher in an opportunity for you to learn how to build the trusting relationship you once had. All too often what begins as a discussion soon morphs into arguments. You may often find yourselves not truly listening to one another, rather waiting for your turn to speak. Hal helps couples find their voice while feeling fully heard. He has mentored couples counselors for thirty years and has been a couples counselor himself since 1978.
Hal’s down-to-earth wisdom and calm demeanor usher in an opportunity for you to learn how to build the trusting relationship you once had. All too often what begins as a discussion soon morphs into arguments. You may often find yourselves not truly listening to one another, rather waiting for your turn to speak. Hal helps couples find their voice while feeling fully heard. He has mentored couples counselors for thirty years and has been a couples counselor himself since 1978.
(516) 715-2210 View (516) 715-2210
Dr. Enza M DiBenedetto
Counselor, MS, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
I have a diverse practice. I work with children, families, adults, and couples. I can work with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, trauma, autism and developmental concerns, and ruptures in family systems. I have extensive experience using play therapy and can also perform cognitive and projective assessments.
I have a diverse practice. I work with children, families, adults, and couples. I can work with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, trauma, autism and developmental concerns, and ruptures in family systems. I have extensive experience using play therapy and can also perform cognitive and projective assessments.
(929) 822-5208 View (929) 822-5208
Photo of Toni Healy, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Forest Hills, NY
Toni Healy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
I have special interest, training, and experience working with self-esteem and self-compassion, caregiver fatigue, alcohol use, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, as well as exploring the mind-body connection. My approach to therapy is based on relational theory and positive psychology. I focus on exploring early relationships and how they shape our patterns of behavior in adult life. I do this from a strengths-based perspective, to help you discover your power and develop compassion for all parts of yourself.
I have special interest, training, and experience working with self-esteem and self-compassion, caregiver fatigue, alcohol use, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, as well as exploring the mind-body connection. My approach to therapy is based on relational theory and positive psychology. I focus on exploring early relationships and how they shape our patterns of behavior in adult life. I do this from a strengths-based perspective, to help you discover your power and develop compassion for all parts of yourself.
(646) 798-8377 View (646) 798-8377
Photo of Hal Brickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest Hills, NY
Hal Brickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RCSW, CSW
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. Without it, communication breaks down and conflict rears its head. Through Hal’s decades of experience, he has cultivated strategies and techniques to help couples rebuild trust and strengthen their bond. He has mentored couples counselors for thirty years and has himself been a couples counselor since 1978. One of Hal's key teachings is the importance of vulnerability in a relationship. He encourages couples to open up and share their deepest fears and insecurities with each other. This kind of vulnerability creates a safe space where both partners feel heard and supported.
Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. Without it, communication breaks down and conflict rears its head. Through Hal’s decades of experience, he has cultivated strategies and techniques to help couples rebuild trust and strengthen their bond. He has mentored couples counselors for thirty years and has himself been a couples counselor since 1978. One of Hal's key teachings is the importance of vulnerability in a relationship. He encourages couples to open up and share their deepest fears and insecurities with each other. This kind of vulnerability creates a safe space where both partners feel heard and supported.
(516) 439-4282 View (516) 439-4282
Photo of Allia Brickman, Counselor in Forest Hills, NY
Allia Brickman
Counselor, LMHC, CGT, CCAT, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
Do you and your partner have a lot of love but find yourselves struggling with communication? Do unresolved issues feel like roadblocks in your relationship? Do you want to regain intimacy and closeness with one another?
Do you and your partner have a lot of love but find yourselves struggling with communication? Do unresolved issues feel like roadblocks in your relationship? Do you want to regain intimacy and closeness with one another?
(516) 265-7069 View (516) 265-7069
Photo of Savbtrie B. Kanhai, Counselor in Forest Hills, NY
Savbtrie B. Kanhai
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
I believe that stress and negative emotions often form a cyclic pattern of behavior, thoughts and feelings, each influencing the other. While emotions are natural and understandable, what is often not acceptable is our reaction to negative emotions. Emotional well-being is important at every stage of personal growth, and individuals having the tool of mental health care at their disposal can vastly determine how they cope and handle stress.
I believe that stress and negative emotions often form a cyclic pattern of behavior, thoughts and feelings, each influencing the other. While emotions are natural and understandable, what is often not acceptable is our reaction to negative emotions. Emotional well-being is important at every stage of personal growth, and individuals having the tool of mental health care at their disposal can vastly determine how they cope and handle stress.
(516) 715-5062 View (516) 715-5062
Photo of Gabriella Mastronardi, Counselor in Forest Hills, NY
Gabriella Mastronardi
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Hello! You deserve to live a life you are proud of and can feel good about. As a psychotherapist, I work with clients of diverse backgrounds and varying interests. I strive to provide an honest and compassionate space that encourages individuality. I work with clients suffering from a wide range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, eating disorders, relationship issues, stress, mood disorders, emotional disturbances, behavioral issues, and life transitions.
Hello! You deserve to live a life you are proud of and can feel good about. As a psychotherapist, I work with clients of diverse backgrounds and varying interests. I strive to provide an honest and compassionate space that encourages individuality. I work with clients suffering from a wide range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, eating disorders, relationship issues, stress, mood disorders, emotional disturbances, behavioral issues, and life transitions.
View
Photo of Linda Bederman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest Hills, NY
Linda Bederman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Depression, anxiety and anger can really impact your overall functioning and quality of life. I believe that people's lives can improve and that change is possible. My strength based approach to treatment will allow you to process, reflect, problem solve and develop coping strategies to promote personal growth. The goal of treatment would be for you improve your relationships with others, cope with life stressors, and manage symptoms more effectively.
Depression, anxiety and anger can really impact your overall functioning and quality of life. I believe that people's lives can improve and that change is possible. My strength based approach to treatment will allow you to process, reflect, problem solve and develop coping strategies to promote personal growth. The goal of treatment would be for you improve your relationships with others, cope with life stressors, and manage symptoms more effectively.
(917) 746-6118 View (917) 746-6118
Photo of Queens Counseling Center-Specialists with Couples, Psychologist in Forest Hills, NY
Queens Counseling Center-Specialists with Couples
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, FAACP, ABPP, PsyANL
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Dr. Joel Stukalin & Sara Mandelbaum caringly provide exceptional COUPLES COUNSELING & INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY for your emotional health & vitality. With 7O years of combined psychological experience helping thousands of grateful clients, Drs. Stukalin & Mandelbaum specialize in a variety of services: Short-Term Marriage, Premarriage & Couples Counseling; Brief & Insight Individual Psychotherapy; Psychological Consultation; & Life Coaching for Success. Counseling often enhances our clients' life quality on an individual, couple & family basis. Also available are consultatons for youngsters who manifest anxiety, depression, frustration, relational & school conflicts. Please call 718-544-6400 for Dr. Stukalin & 718-544-9198 for Dr. Mandelbaum or visit us @: www.boardcertifiedpsychologist.com
Dr. Joel Stukalin & Sara Mandelbaum caringly provide exceptional COUPLES COUNSELING & INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY for your emotional health & vitality. With 7O years of combined psychological experience helping thousands of grateful clients, Drs. Stukalin & Mandelbaum specialize in a variety of services: Short-Term Marriage, Premarriage & Couples Counseling; Brief & Insight Individual Psychotherapy; Psychological Consultation; & Life Coaching for Success. Counseling often enhances our clients' life quality on an individual, couple & family basis. Also available are consultatons for youngsters who manifest anxiety, depression, frustration, relational & school conflicts. Please call 718-544-6400 for Dr. Stukalin & 718-544-9198 for Dr. Mandelbaum or visit us @: www.boardcertifiedpsychologist.com
(917) 992-5334 View (917) 992-5334
Photo of Janna Taradash, Counselor in Forest Hills, NY
Janna Taradash
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
I have several years of experience working with adults who are struggling through anxiety, uncertainty, depression, loss, trauma, life transitions, and relationship and intimacy issues. My approach is warm, collaborative, direct, and at times humorous! I use an integrative framework and draw on relational, psychodynamic, and humanistic modalities to guide my work. In the context of a supportive relationship, our work together would focus on finding relief while gaining a deeper understanding of what is troubling you.
I have several years of experience working with adults who are struggling through anxiety, uncertainty, depression, loss, trauma, life transitions, and relationship and intimacy issues. My approach is warm, collaborative, direct, and at times humorous! I use an integrative framework and draw on relational, psychodynamic, and humanistic modalities to guide my work. In the context of a supportive relationship, our work together would focus on finding relief while gaining a deeper understanding of what is troubling you.
(646) 906-8695 View (646) 906-8695
Photo of Harold Brickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest Hills, NY
Harold Brickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RCSW, CSW, MSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Hal specializes in Infidelity Recovery. His down to earth wisdom and calm demeanor has helped hundreds of partners inject trust back into their breaking or broken relationships. Whether it’s trust or a regaining of intimacy and healthy communication, Hal steers couples back on course to meet these goals. So give yourself some space. and instead of deflecting. Finally, reflect. Honestly. That means looking at how you too often deflect. Which makes matters worse. You need to make a pact. One of you needs to call for professional help. You don’t want just anybody. You deserve a therapist who’s been practically lionized. Call Hal soon.
Hal specializes in Infidelity Recovery. His down to earth wisdom and calm demeanor has helped hundreds of partners inject trust back into their breaking or broken relationships. Whether it’s trust or a regaining of intimacy and healthy communication, Hal steers couples back on course to meet these goals. So give yourself some space. and instead of deflecting. Finally, reflect. Honestly. That means looking at how you too often deflect. Which makes matters worse. You need to make a pact. One of you needs to call for professional help. You don’t want just anybody. You deserve a therapist who’s been practically lionized. Call Hal soon.
(929) 930-2945 View (929) 930-2945
Photo of Maryellen Dance, Counselor in Forest Hills, NY
Maryellen Dance
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
My style is very direct and solution focused. I believe it's important to get to the root of the problem and work towards a solution. I believe that you are the expert on you and I am here to help and guide through the learning and healing process. I have had experience working in a variety of settings including: substance abuse rehabilitation centers, domestic abuse shelters, community mental health clinics, and private practice.
My style is very direct and solution focused. I believe it's important to get to the root of the problem and work towards a solution. I believe that you are the expert on you and I am here to help and guide through the learning and healing process. I have had experience working in a variety of settings including: substance abuse rehabilitation centers, domestic abuse shelters, community mental health clinics, and private practice.
(646) 863-5546 View (646) 863-5546
Photo of Renisher Patterson, Counselor in Forest Hills, NY
Renisher Patterson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience helping individuals just like you, who are suffering from anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, live a better, healthier and happier life, while reducing the symptoms of worry and stress. We will work together to bring about your desired changes, that's needed for you to get back to a productive life. You don't have to suffer in silence, your symptoms of anxiety and depression can be adequately treated. As we work together, we will focus on your specific symptoms and work towards creating a treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms and work towards your goals.
I have over 10 years of experience helping individuals just like you, who are suffering from anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, live a better, healthier and happier life, while reducing the symptoms of worry and stress. We will work together to bring about your desired changes, that's needed for you to get back to a productive life. You don't have to suffer in silence, your symptoms of anxiety and depression can be adequately treated. As we work together, we will focus on your specific symptoms and work towards creating a treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms and work towards your goals.
(646) 933-0947 View (646) 933-0947
Photo of Hal Brickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest Hills, NY
Hal Brickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RCSW, CSW, MSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. Without it, communication breaks down and conflict rears its head. Through Hal’s decades of experience, he has cultivated strategies and techniques to help couples rebuild trust and strengthen their bond. He has mentored couples counselors for thirty years and has himself been a couples counselor since 1978. One of Hal's key teachings is the importance of vulnerability in a relationship. He encourages couples to open up and share their deepest fears and insecurities with each other. This kind of vulnerability creates a safe space where both partners feel heard and supported.
Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. Without it, communication breaks down and conflict rears its head. Through Hal’s decades of experience, he has cultivated strategies and techniques to help couples rebuild trust and strengthen their bond. He has mentored couples counselors for thirty years and has himself been a couples counselor since 1978. One of Hal's key teachings is the importance of vulnerability in a relationship. He encourages couples to open up and share their deepest fears and insecurities with each other. This kind of vulnerability creates a safe space where both partners feel heard and supported.
(516) 439-4282 View (516) 439-4282
Photo of Sally M Robles, Psychologist in Forest Hills, NY
Sally M Robles
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
As a therapist, I integrate psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and body-mind perspectives while being mindful of the impact stress, culture, and life-stages have on all our lives. Often when people struggle, we find that an authentic and lively part of them was suppressed. This suppression of self is often a strategy used to adapt to circumstances and people that don't validate (or may even punish) the full range of who you are.
As a therapist, I integrate psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and body-mind perspectives while being mindful of the impact stress, culture, and life-stages have on all our lives. Often when people struggle, we find that an authentic and lively part of them was suppressed. This suppression of self is often a strategy used to adapt to circumstances and people that don't validate (or may even punish) the full range of who you are.
(646) 970-1747 View (646) 970-1747
Photo of Hal Brickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Forest Hills, NY
Hal Brickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RCSW, CSW, MSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. Without it, communication breaks down and conflict rears its head. Through Hal’s decades of experience, he has cultivated strategies and techniques to help couples rebuild trust and strengthen their bond. He has mentored couples counselors for thirty years and has himself been a couples counselor since 1978. One of Hal’s key teachings is the importance of vulnerability in a relationship. He encourages couples to open up and share their deepest fears and insecurities with each other. This kind of vulnerability creates a safe space where both partners feel heard and supported.
Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. Without it, communication breaks down and conflict rears its head. Through Hal’s decades of experience, he has cultivated strategies and techniques to help couples rebuild trust and strengthen their bond. He has mentored couples counselors for thirty years and has himself been a couples counselor since 1978. One of Hal’s key teachings is the importance of vulnerability in a relationship. He encourages couples to open up and share their deepest fears and insecurities with each other. This kind of vulnerability creates a safe space where both partners feel heard and supported.
(516) 439-4282 View (516) 439-4282
Photo of Kristina Wong, Psychologist in Forest Hills, NY
Kristina Wong
Psychologist, MSEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375
One's life comprises of more worlds than we can ever think of. If you or your child is struggling in school or at home - academically, emotionally, or physically - there are most likely a complex network of systems that are negatively interacting together. Let's work together to help your child, your family, or you navigate these networks, and to learn the skills to live a mindful and joyful life. As a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working in schools, I am here to guide you through the ups and downs of your journey.
One's life comprises of more worlds than we can ever think of. If you or your child is struggling in school or at home - academically, emotionally, or physically - there are most likely a complex network of systems that are negatively interacting together. Let's work together to help your child, your family, or you navigate these networks, and to learn the skills to live a mindful and joyful life. As a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working in schools, I am here to guide you through the ups and downs of your journey.
(917) 746-5145 View (917) 746-5145

See more therapy options for Forest Hills

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Forest Hills, NY

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Forest Hills, NY who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
71% Relationship Issues
68% Self Esteem
68% Stress
64% Trauma and PTSD
62% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
56% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Forest Hills, NY see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
28% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Forest Hills?

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.